Craniosacral Therapy for Treating Fibromyalgia

As with most chronic, painful conditions, many traditional treatment methods for fibromyalgia simply do not work.  It is much more likely that someone will find relief with an alternative treatment rather than a conventional one prescribed by a doctor.  The effects of fibromyalgia can be so debilitating and painful that people will seek any treatment that will improve their quality of life.  Sometimes such alternative measures are not well known and a lot of independent research must be done in order to unearth the one that works for you.

One such treatment for fibromyalgia is craniosacral therapy.  It is a gentle, hands-on therapy that is supposed to relieve tension and pain, while improving the immune system, improving the movement of fluid throughout the body, and generally, improving a person’s overall health.  The name of the therapy comes from the craniosacral system, which is made up of bones, membranes, and fluid that surround the brain and spinal cord.  The theory in focusing on this area is that tension and stress can cause the tissue and membranes to tighten, thereby affecting the central nervous system and all of the functions that it is responsible for controlling.  According to a Richmond, Indiana newspaper, The Palladium, a therapist can feel the rhythm of cerebrospinal fluid moving around the brain and spinal cord.  The therapist then feels for any restrictions in the flow and using various light touch techniques, releases them so that they can properly support the nervous system.  The technique is especially helpful for fibromyalgia patients because the touch is so light.  Many people living with fibromyalgia are apprehensive about touch because of the pain it may cause.

Most patients feel immediate relief after this treatment, and even though they may need additional treatments over a period of time, their relaxed state greatly improves their daily living.  Depending on the severity of the disorder, a person may have to undergo one or more treatments over several weeks before seeing an overall improvement in the fibromyalgia pain.  If you decide to pursue this alternative therapy, make sure to discuss the option with your doctor.  Although it is unlikely to interfere with any other treatments, it is important that all therapies are documented and risks are weighed.  Additionally, make sure that you find a therapist who is certified to perform craniosacral therapy and ask them about the success rate.  All in all this therapy is not invasive and even if it ultimately does not relieve all of the pain, at least you will have received a nice head massage.