Craniosacral therapy is an alternative treatment for cerebral palsy in which a practitioner focuses on the craniosacral system, comprising the spine, skull, and central nervous system. The therapist uses his hands in a non-invasive way that is designed to open up restricted nerve passages and allow cerebrospinal fluid to better flow through the spinal cord. When this fluid is allowed to flow unimpeded, a proper rhythm of fluid is established that allows for a proper balance between the brain and spinal cord.

A trained craniosacral therapist can “feel” where this rhythm is off by touching the bones of the body, and then by apply pressure in the correct areas can restore this rhythm. Craniosacral therapy feels like a very light massage.

While craniosacral therapy for cerebral palsy has not been studied, some anecdotal evidence shows that treatments can be effective. Craniosacral therapy can help the muscles and nervous systems of people with CP function at their optimal levels, which can minimize the symptoms of CP, as well as some of the complications associated with it. Many people with cerebral palsy who have experienced craniosacral therapy report that chronic pain has diminished following treatment.

Most insurance companies will not pay for craniosacral therapy for cerebral palsy. However, if your child has been denied benefits and you and/or his doctor feel he may benefit from craniosacral therapy, he may not need to go without. With the right knowledge and advocacy, you can get your child the benefits and therapies that he deserves. See our legal/financial section for more information, or contact us to see how we can help.