mississippi health center
4631 n. albina
portland oregon 97217
main 503 282 5358
mississippihealthcenter.com
WHAT IS CRANIOSACRAL THERAPY?
Infant CST is a gentle, non-invasive technique for restoring optimal function and ease of movement in babies.
Frequently the birth process, whether it was a natural birth or surgically assisted, can cause restrictions in
the muscle, fascia, and/or skeletal layers. These restrictions can lead to common problems such as:
Other reasons to treat an infant with CST:
Fast birth
Slow birth
Birth with forceps
Cesarean birth
Breech birth
Crooked nose, face or head shape
Baby who has been separated from mother
Resuscitated infants
Birth trauma/injuries
Neonatal intubation
Baby who has had surgery
CST is a manual therapy that uses no more than 5 gm of pressure (the weight of a nickel) to
address restrictions in the craniosacral system. This system plays an important role in
stabilizing the environment in which the central nervous system functions. It consists of
the membranes and fluid that surround and protect the brain and spinal cord as well as the
bones of the skull (cranium) and the tailbone area (sacrum). CST helps correct any restrictions
in the craniosacral system enabling the body to release the effects of stress.
WHAT CAN I EXPECT DURING A TREATMENT?
The first visit includes a thorough intake with one or both parents about the current condition
of your baby, the pregnancy, labor and birth process, and previous types of treatment for the
mother and the baby. The treatment portion begins with a hands-on physical assessment of your
baby checking for normal and restricted movement and rhythm of the craniosacral system. Restrictions
are treated with gentle release techniques that are either very subtle or bigger in movement but the
techniques are always gentle. A first session will generally take 1 hour. Follow-ups may take between
a half hour to a full hour.
WHAT IF MY BAY CRIES?
Babies may cry a certain amount during a treatment as part of the release process. You are welcome
to hold your baby for as much or as little as you are comfortable during any part of the session.
Sometimes babies may cry more than other times. Treatment will only continue if all parties (including
your baby) are comfortable continuing.
WHAT CAN I EXPECT AFTER A SESSION?
Usually a baby will sleep longer than usual or at a different time than usual. Since babies integrate
new information while they sleep, this is a normal and positive reaction. It is fine to wake your baby
for a feeding if necessary. Some babies express strong emotions after a session: this may include extra
smiles as well as extra cries or anything in between including a sharp increase of appetite. This should
only last a day or so.
WHAT SORT OF RESULT SHOULD I EXPECT FROM MY BABY'S TREATMENT?
Ideally, the main reason for seeking treatment should show an improvement. Sometimes, another issue that
seemed secondary is resolved before the chief complaint is resolved. This is a normal reaction, especially
if what seemed secondary is aggravating or even causing the “bigger” issue. Occasionally, a baby may need
another treatment before noticeable improvement occurs. If no change in condition has occurred by the
second treatment, other options will be discussed.
Your baby is precious and will be treated with respect and compassion without exception. For more information
or to make an appointment, please contact Beth Yohalem Ilsley, LAc