Encouraging news
Studies have shown that craniosacral therapy is both effective and safe for the treatment of infants who suffer from colic. In the Journal Science Direct, researchers found CST to be effective in treating colic. They found that babies who received CST spent less time crying and more time sleeping.
What is Craniosacral Therapy?
Craniosacral therapy (CST), a gentle, hands-on, holistic therapy, releases stress and restores the flow of cerebrospinal fluid within the central nervous system (CNS). The CNS includes the membranes, bones, and fluid surrounding the brain and spinal cord.
By restoring the natural movement and rhythm of the CNS, practitioners alleviate many of the common ailments that accompany infancy and early childhood. CST is non-invasive and a safe treatment option for infants and children. Children who suffer from colic, sensory overload, digestive difficulties, and a vulnerable immune system benefit from CST treatment. CST helps to regulate eating and sleeping cycles for babies who have had a difficult birth.
What is colic?
It’s not uncommon for babies to fuss and cry, especially during the first few months of life. Babies cry for many reasons, including hunger, the desire to be held, or the need for a diaper change. Colic is defined as crying for three or more hours a day, three or more days a week, for three or more weeks, without an apparent underlying cause.
Colic is associated with digestive issues, such as food intolerance, imbalance of the microbiome, or family stress. When babies cry persistently, it’s important to rule out medical complications before pursuing holistic solutions.
The craniosacral rhythm
Craniosacral therapists find a discernible rhythm within the craniosacral system. By monitoring that rhythm, they can identify areas of chronic stress where mobility is lacking. Training to become a CST practitioner involves the comprehensive study of anatomy, physiology, and neurology, as well as additional hours of practice to acquire the skills necessary to access and work within the craniosacral system. With a gentle touch, the CST practitioner can release the obstruction and restore the cranial rhythm.
The implications of a healthy cranial rhythm include:
- Balances within the autonomic nervous system
- Improved digestion
- Improved respiration
- Improvements to affect and mood.
CST practitioners who work with infants report:
- Easier nursing, including latching, sucking, and swallowing
- Reduction or elimination of colic symptoms
- Improved mobility and alignment
- Diminished symptoms of torticollis
- Enhanced self-regulation, resulting in a less fussy and happier child
- Improved digestion and elimination
- Healing from birth injuries
- Better sleep
Caregiver support
Colic is not just a problem for infants. It can also take a toll on parents and their overall well-being. In this stressful time, it is not unusual to develop feelings of helplessness and postpartum depression. Some caregivers find CST to be effective in maintaining their equilibrium amidst the turbulence of having a baby with colic.
The contents of this article are not meant to be diagnostic or prescriptive. Colic is often complex, and a physician should always be consulted before choosing a course of treatment.