CranioSacral Therapy for Concussions: A Gentle Approach to Recovery
Concussions can be life-altering, even long after the initial injury. From lingering headaches and dizziness to memory issues and emotional imbalances, recovery isn't always a straight line. Suppose you've been searching for complementary therapies to help ease these symptoms. In that case, you may have heard of craniosacral therapy for concussion recovery.
But what exactly is it, and does it really help?
In this guide, we'll explain craniosacral therapy, how it might benefit people with post-concussion symptoms, the research, and what to expect from treatment. If you're exploring gentle, holistic tools for brain health, keep reading.
What Is CranioSacral Therapy?
Craniosacral therapy (CST) is a light-touch, hands-on treatment developed by osteopathic physician Dr. John Upledger in the 1970s. The idea behind CST is simple: your brain and spinal cord are surrounded by a membrane system and cerebrospinal fluid that can become restricted after injury or stress. By gently working with the head, spine, and sacrum, therapists aim to release tension, improve fluid movement, and support the nervous system's ability to self-correct.
Despite its gentle nature, CST can have deep physiological effects. And when it comes to concussions, less is often more—especially for an already-sensitive brain.
How Can CST Help After a Concussion?
A concussion disrupts the brain's normal function. That disruption can lead to inflammation, changes in cerebrospinal fluid dynamics, and overstimulation of the autonomic nervous system (your fight-or-flight response). This is where CST may come in.
Here's how craniosacral therapy for concussions is thought to help:
Reduces inflammation and pressure by improving cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) flow
Eases fascial restrictions in the head and neck that may cause pain or dizziness
Supports nervous system regulation, promoting deep relaxation and balance
Aids in headache and migraine relief through targeted cranial work
Improves sleep and mood by activating the parasympathetic nervous system
It's especially beneficial for those suffering from long-term symptoms, also known as craniosacral therapy for post-concussion syndrome.
Craniosacral Therapy for Post-Concussion Syndrome
Craniosacral therapy for post-concussion syndrome (PCS) has gained more attention as awareness of lingering brain injury symptoms has grown. PCS can include symptoms like fatigue, insomnia, irritability, light sensitivity, and even depression—weeks or months after the original concussion.
CST’s strength lies in its ability to gently support the nervous system during this prolonged healing process. Because PCS often lacks visible signs on imaging scans, treatment can feel elusive. CST offers a body-based approach that targets areas where conventional treatments may not reach.
Some practitioners report seeing improvements in the following:
Chronic headaches or migraines
Brain fog and cognitive function
Mood stabilization
Nervous system overstimulation (especially anxiety or panic symptoms)
As part of a long-term care plan, CST can give PCS patients another path forward, especially those who feel stuck with slight improvement from conventional care.
What the Research Says
Scientific studies on CST are still growing, but two notable sources provide encouraging insights.
The Upledger Institute’s Concussion Program:
This program offered a 5-day intensive CST treatment for retired NFL players suffering from post-concussion syndrome. Participants reported significant improvements in sleep, pain, mood, and cognitive function.
2017 Study in Frontiers in Neurology:
A randomized controlled trial published by the NIH studied the effects of manual therapy, including craniosacral therapy, on patients with post-concussion symptoms. The study found significant improvements in symptom severity, particularly in pain and quality of life. While further research is needed, the outcomes suggest CST may be a promising complementary option for PCS.
These studies support CST as a low-risk, potentially high-reward tool for managing post-concussive symptoms.
Craniosacral Therapy vs. Cranial Massage: Is There a Difference?
While cranial massage for concussion might sound similar to craniosacral therapy, there are key differences, both in technique and impact.
Cranial massage usually involves firmer pressure focused on relaxing scalp muscles and easing surface-level tension. It's often used in spa settings or for general stress relief. However, in concussion recovery, deeper neurological support is often needed, and that's where craniosacral therapy for post-concussion syndrome comes in.
Just as the former NFL players benefited from craniosacral therapy, as mentioned above, another study published in Frontiers in Neurology found that patients receiving CST and other manual therapies showed significant improvement in post-concussion symptoms such as fatigue, headaches, and cognitive difficulties. This goes far beyond what a typical cranial massage could accomplish.
In short, while cranial massage for concussion symptoms can feel good and help with surface-level tension, craniosacral therapy for post-concussion syndrome addresses the deeper rhythm and restrictions of the central nervous system, making it a more targeted and therapeutic option for brain injuries.
What to Expect in a CST Session
Your first session will usually start with a detailed intake. The practitioner will ask about your symptoms, concussion history, and any sensitivities.
During treatment:
You’ll remain fully clothed, lying face-up on a massage table.
The therapist uses light, sustained pressure—often no more than the weight of a nickel.
They may place their hands on your skull, neck, spine, or sacrum.
Many clients enter a deeply relaxed state or even fall asleep.
Each session lasts 45–60 minutes. While some people feel relief immediately, others need multiple sessions, especially for chronic symptoms.
Is CranioSacral Therapy Safe After a Concussion?
Yes—for most people. One of the benefits of craniosacral therapy for concussions is how gentle and non-invasive it is. There’s no cracking, no needles, and no intense manipulation. That makes it a safe complement to other treatments, especially when the brain is still sensitive.
That said, it’s essential to:
Work with a certified CST practitioner who understands concussion recovery
Get medical clearance before starting
Be honest about symptoms that worsen or change
Always listen to your body and communicate openly with your therapist.
How Many Sessions Will I Need?This depends on your symptoms and how long it’s been since your injury. Here’s a general guideline:
Mild, recent concussions: 3–5 sessions
Moderate to severe PCS: 6–12 sessions or more
Chronic cases: Ongoing maintenance every few weeks
Some clients notice shifts after just one visit. Others find their improvements build slowly over time.
Combining CST with Other Therapies
CST is most effective when used alongside a comprehensive concussion care plan. That may include:
Vestibular therapy for balance and eye tracking
Cognitive therapy for memory and focus
Nutrition for inflammation support
Counseling or mindfulness for anxiety or emotional shifts
When used thoughtfully, CST can be a safe and supportive part of the healing process after a concussion.
3 FAQs: Craniosacral Therapy for Concussion Recovery
1. Is CST covered by insurance?It depends. Some plans cover CST if it's done by a physical therapist or chiropractor. Always ask your provider.
2. Can kids with concussions use CST? Yes. CST is gentle enough for children and is often used to help young athletes or kids recovering from falls.
3. What if I feel worse after a session? Some people feel a temporary uptick in symptoms, similar to a healing response. Always tell your practitioner so they can adjust future treatments.
Is CST Right for You?
Does Craniosacral Therapy Work? If you've tried everything for post-concussion symptoms and still feel stuck, CST may offer a new path forward. It's not a cure-all, but it can help your body find its rhythm of healing again.
Your Next Step
If you're curious about whether CST might help you recover from a concussion, I’m here to help. My approach is gentle, grounded, and always centered on your comfort.
Contact me today to learn more or book your first session. Whether you're weeks or years post-injury, craniosacral therapy for concussions or craniosacral therapy for post-concussion syndrome may be the turning point you've been waiting for.
And if you're searching for a natural alternative to ease lingering brain fog, headaches, or emotional swings, cranial massage for concussion symptoms could be a first step worth exploring.
