Balance & concussion

# Craniosacral Therapy

Gentle therapy targeting the skull, spine, and sacrum for headaches and chronic pain

[Call +1 604 923 8323](tel:+16049238323)

## What Is Craniosacral Therapy?

Craniosacral therapy is a gentle, hands-on treatment that focuses on the fascia — the connective tissue surrounding and supporting every structure in your body. Through subtle manipulations of the skull (cranium), spine, and sacrum, this therapy influences the dural membranes that envelop your brain and spinal cord.

Key characteristics of this approach:

-   Uses extremely light touch — typically no more than the weight of a nickel
-   Detects and releases restrictions in the fascial system
-   Ideal for conditions too sensitive for other treatments
-   Addresses [headaches](https://ateasephysio.ca/conditions/headaches-migraines), post-concussion symptoms, chronic pain, and insomnia

At At Ease Physio in [South Surrey](https://ateasephysio.ca/contact), our physiotherapists have advanced training in craniosacral techniques. Whether you’re dealing with persistent [headaches](https://ateasephysio.ca/conditions/headaches-migraines), recovering from a concussion, or struggling with [chronic pain](https://ateasephysio.ca/conditions/back-pain) that hasn’t responded to other treatments, craniosacral therapy may provide the relief you’ve been seeking.

To understand the anatomy behind this approach, read about [the dural layers of the central nervous system](https://ateasephysio.ca/blog/dural-layers-central-nervous-system). For parents interested in gentle care for infants, explore our article on [hands-on care for babies](https://ateasephysio.ca/blog/gentle-hands-on-care-for-babies). You may also find our explanation of [polyvagal theory and manual therapy](https://ateasephysio.ca/blog/polyvagal-theory-manual-therapy) helpful for understanding how gentle touch affects nervous system regulation.

Best for

Chronic headaches, post-concussion recovery, persistent pain

Typical course

4–8 sessions depending on condition

Coverage

Extended health benefits (physiotherapy)

## Who is this for?

-   Experience chronic headaches that haven't responded to other treatments
-   Are recovering from a concussion and need gentle nervous system support
-   Have persistent pain that traditional approaches haven't relieved
-   Prefer or require gentle, non-invasive treatment due to sensitivity or previous trauma
-   Want to address physical symptoms connected to stress, anxiety, or emotional tension

### Conditions and concerns

-   [Headaches and migraines](https://ateasephysio.ca/conditions/headaches-migraines)
-   Post-concussion symptoms
-   Chronic pain conditions
-   [TMJ dysfunction](https://ateasephysio.ca/conditions/tmj-jaw-pain)
-   Insomnia and sleep issues
-   Stress and anxiety
-   [Neck and back pain](https://ateasephysio.ca/conditions/back-pain)

## How it helps

-   ### Headache & Migraine Relief
    
    Releases tension in membranes surrounding the brain and reduces cranial restrictions
    
-   ### Concussion Recovery Support
    
    Normalizes cranial rhythm and reduces central nervous system inflammation
    
-   ### Chronic Pain Reduction
    
    Addresses fascial restrictions at their source when other treatments haven't worked
    
-   ### Improved Sleep Quality
    
    Calms the nervous system and releases tension patterns
    
-   ### Stress Reduction
    
    Activates the parasympathetic nervous system to counteract chronic stress
    
-   ### Nervous System Regulation
    
    Balances the autonomic nervous system for appropriate alertness and rest states
    

## What to expect

1.  ### Initial Assessment
    
    Detailed health history and discussion of your symptoms, concerns, and treatment goals. A gentle assessment identifies areas of restriction and guides your treatment plan.
    
2.  ### Treatment Session
    
    Lie comfortably on a treatment table, fully clothed. Your therapist uses extremely gentle pressure on your head, spine, and sacrum to detect and release restrictions.
    
3.  ### Post-Treatment Care
    
    Feel calm and relaxed after your session. Benefits may unfold over the following days. Drink plenty of water and allow yourself time to rest.
    

## Meet the Practitioners

Our team of experienced physiotherapists and kinesiologists are ready to help you on your path to recovery.

### [Susannah Reid](https://ateasephysio.ca/team/susannah-reid)

Clinic Owner & Registered Physiotherapist

[View Profile](https://ateasephysio.ca/team/susannah-reid)

### [Larissa Vishniakoff](https://ateasephysio.ca/team/larissa-vishniakoff)

Registered Physiotherapist

[View Profile](https://ateasephysio.ca/team/larissa-vishniakoff)

## New to physiotherapy?

Start with an assessment. You do not need to choose a treatment technique.

[First visit & fees](https://ateasephysio.ca/patient-info#pricing)

## Why choose At Ease Physio?

-   ### Advanced Training
    
    Our physiotherapists have completed specialized training in craniosacral therapy, ensuring skilled, effective treatment.
    
-   ### Integrated Concussion Care
    
    We combine craniosacral therapy with vestibular rehabilitation and manual therapy for comprehensive treatment.
    
-   ### Gentle Approach
    
    Our practitioners adapt their approach to meet the needs of even the most sensitive patients.
    
-   ### Calm Environment
    
    Our South Surrey clinic provides a peaceful setting conducive to deep relaxation.
    

## Frequently asked questions

**What does craniosacral therapy feel like?**

Craniosacral therapy involves very light touch, often described as no heavier than the weight of a nickel. Most patients find it deeply relaxing and may experience warmth, softening, or gentle pulsing. Many people feel so relaxed they fall asleep during treatment.

**How many sessions will I need?**

The number varies depending on your condition and response to treatment. Some patients notice significant improvement after one or two sessions, while chronic conditions may require treatment over several weeks. Your physiotherapist will create a plan based on your needs and progress.

**Who can benefit from craniosacral therapy?**

People of all ages benefit from craniosacral therapy — from infants to seniors. It's particularly helpful for headaches, post-concussion symptoms, chronic pain, TMJ dysfunction, sleep issues, and stress-related conditions. The gentle nature makes it appropriate for those who can't tolerate more forceful techniques.

**Is craniosacral therapy safe?**

Yes, craniosacral therapy is very safe when performed by a trained practitioner. The light touch makes adverse effects rare. Some conditions may not be appropriate, including recent skull fractures, acute stroke, or conditions affecting cerebrospinal fluid pressure. Your physiotherapist will review your health history first.

**Is craniosacral therapy covered by insurance?**

When provided by a registered physiotherapist, craniosacral therapy is typically covered under extended health benefits. Coverage varies by plan, so check with your insurance provider. We provide receipts for submission, and direct billing may be available.

## Conditions We Treat

[Headaches & Migraines Treatment Physiotherapy treatment for chronic headaches and migraines in South Surrey. Relief from tension headaches, cervicogenic headaches, and migraine symptoms. Learn More](https://ateasephysio.ca/conditions/headaches-migraines)

[Concussion Treatment & Recovery Specialized concussion and post-concussion syndrome treatment in South Surrey. Evidence-based physiotherapy for a safe return to school, work, and sport. Learn More](https://ateasephysio.ca/conditions/concussion)

[TMJ & Jaw Pain Treatment Specialized physiotherapy for TMJ disorders and jaw pain in South Surrey. Relief from clicking, locking, and temporomandibular joint dysfunction. Learn More](https://ateasephysio.ca/conditions/tmj-jaw-pain)

[Neck Pain Treatment Comprehensive physiotherapy treatment for neck pain in South Surrey. Specialized care for cervical pain, stiffness, and headaches. Learn More](https://ateasephysio.ca/conditions/neck-pain)

## Related Services

[Visceral Manipulation Gentle hands-on therapy to restore natural organ movement and reduce pain Learn More](https://ateasephysio.ca/services/visceral-manipulation)

[Vestibular Therapy Evidence-based treatment for dizziness, vertigo, and balance disorders Learn More](https://ateasephysio.ca/services/vestibular-therapy)

[Manual Therapy Skilled hands-on techniques to restore mobility, reduce pain, and promote healing Learn More](https://ateasephysio.ca/services/manual-therapy)

## Seeking Gentle, Effective Relief?

If other treatments haven't worked, craniosacral therapy offers a different approach. Book a session to experience this gentle healing modality.

[Book an appointment](https://ateasephysio.janeapp.com/) [Contact Us](https://ateasephysio.ca/contact)
