Craniosacral Therapy

Craniosacral Therapy at Advanced Manual Therapies

Craniosacral therapy (CST) is a gentle, noninvasive, hands-on technique. According to the Cleveland Clinic, the therapist uses a very light touch on the head, neck, and back, in the area between the skull and the sacrum, to release tension in the body’s connective tissue (fascia).

Dr. Rion McClelland, DC offers gentle craniosacral therapy as part of his chiropractic care. He has over 30 years of experience and a particular interest in gentle care for patients of all ages, including prenatal, postpartum, and pediatric patients.

What a Session Feels Like

• Comfortable positioning: You rest on the treatment table, fully clothed.
• Very light touch: The pressure is gentle, much lighter than a typical massage or adjustment.
• Unhurried pace: Many patients find the session calming and relaxing.

Who May Consider It

• Patients who want a gentle option for neck, head, or back tension
• Patients who are sensitive to stronger manual techniques or would prefer a lighter approach
• Prenatal, postpartum, and pediatric patients, where care is adapted to age, comfort, and condition
• Anyone who wants to complement other treatment with a calm, hands-on session

What the Research Says

The evidence on craniosacral therapy is mixed, and we want you to know that up front. A 2019 meta-analysis in BMC Musculoskeletal Disorders found that CST reduced pain and disability for some people with chronic pain in the short term, while other systematic reviews concluded that the evidence is limited and the studies are of low quality. It is generally considered low risk. Reported side effects are mild and may include tiredness, light-headedness, or brief discomfort.

We offer craniosacral therapy as one gentle option within a broader plan of care. We will talk with you about what to expect, and we will not promise a specific result.

What to Expect at Your Visit

Your first visit includes a thorough evaluation and a clear explanation of what we find, so that treatment is matched to your needs. Craniosacral therapy does not replace medical care. If your symptoms need medical attention, we will tell you. Like all care at AMT, your visit is one-on-one, and no referral is needed.

References: Cleveland Clinic: Craniosacral Therapy; Haller et al., Craniosacral therapy for chronic pain: a systematic review and meta-analysis, BMC Musculoskeletal Disorders, 2019.