What is Infant CranioSacral Therapy?

Infant CranioSacral Therapy (ICST) is a gentle, non-invasive therapeutic approach used to evaluate and address imbalances in an infant's craniosacral system, which includes the brain, spinal cord, and cerebrospinal fluid.

How is ICST different from regular CranioSacral Therapy?

ICST is specifically adapted for infants and newborns. It employs even lighter touch techniques and is tailored to the unique needs of infants to promote relaxation and alleviate potential issues related to childbirth and infancy.

What are the common reasons parents seek ICST for their infants?

Parents often seek ICST for issues like colic, breastfeeding difficulties, sleep disturbances, torticollis, and developmental delays, as well as for overall wellness and to support a calm, balanced nervous system.

Is ICST safe for infants?

Yes, ICST is generally considered safe when performed by a trained and experienced practitioner. The gentle, non-invasive nature of the therapy minimizes risks.

ICST practitioners use light touch to detect and release tensions in the craniosacral system. By doing so, they aim to promote better circulation of cerebrospinal fluid and restore balance to the nervous system.

At what age can infants receive ICST?

ICST can be performed on infants from the newborn stage and onwards. It is often sought in the first few weeks or months of life, but older infants can also benefit from the therapy.

How long does an ICST session typically last for an infant?

ICST sessions for infants are typically shorter than those for adults, usually lasting around 30 minutes. The duration may vary depending on the specific needs of the infant.

Are there any contraindications or situations where ICST should be avoided?

ICST is generally safe, but it's essential to consult with a healthcare provider before pursuing ICST if the infant has a severe medical condition or recent head injury. The practitioner will adapt their approach accordingly.

What are the potential benefits of ICST for infants?

ICST is believed to support an infant's overall well-being by helping to alleviate discomfort, improve sleep patterns, enhance breastfeeding, reduce stress, and potentially address developmental challenges.

How can parents find a qualified ICST practitioner for their infant?

Parents should look for certified CranioSacral Therapy practitioners like those at Family Seasons, with extensive training and experience in treating infants.

Infant CranioSacral Therapy

Why would your baby benefit from CranioSacral Therapy?

Aren’t babies born perfect? Absolutely! AND sometimes their presentation or lay in utero or their birth story creates tension in their fascia and muscles. This can make normal developmental milestones, including feeding, more challenging. At Family Seasons, our IBCLC’s are trained in the advanced care of feeding challenges that are due to TOT’s or Tight oral Tissues using CranioSacral therapy. They and our other practitioners are trained in CranioSacral Therapy for a myriad of Infant Concerns. Whether you have been referred for TOT’s or are dealing with plagiocephaly (flat head) or torticollis (one sided turning preferences) or other conditions that respond well to treatment including CST, such as nervous system regulation after a difficult birth, you’ll know that your baby is in good hands.

What does a session of CST look like for an infant in our office?

Every time one of our practitioners touches or holds your infant, their ‘treatment hands’ are evaluating the distinct yet subtle Cranio Rhythm that beats (similar to a heartbeat) at about 7-12x a minute. During this evaluation, even when talking to you about another

topic, you will notice the practitioner using her hands in different ways along your baby’s body, helping with the release of tight tissue, balancing the baby’s system and working for symmetry of movement. She will place her hands on top of your baby’s body and head and often inside your baby’s mouth with a gloved finger. She may even ask to work with your baby while your baby is feeding or sleeping

Typically CranioSacral Therapy sessions are highly relaxing to a baby and they finish a session feeling better right away. Other times though, your baby might be upset from the drive to the office, or needs a nap, or is dealing with extremely tight tissue that simply cannot be resolved quickly. If this is your baby during a session, don’t despair. CST will help your baby and we will make other recommendations for complimentary care if we see the need. There are many fantastic practitioners in the valley that we partner with for infant care. We encourage you to take a deep breath, and remember that it takes a while for some babies to become settled in their bodies.

After your session, your therapist may ask you to continue some therapy at home that will be specific to your baby and their needs. If this pertains to you, she will create a personalized care plan with your homework for your baby to move forward in their progress. You will be asked to use very gently touch during this work and while you will not be doing CranioSacral Therapy per se, your job at home will absolutely maximize the progress made at every CST visit by helping the muscles and fascia to develop new muscle, facia and processing memory patterns.

*A specific note for parents of babies with TOT’s or who have been diagnosed with a Tongue or Lip Tie. CranioSacral therapy is recommended by all of the leading researchers in the preparation and post- care of infants with this diagnosis. We respect the challenge that this diagnosis has created for you and will do our very best to provide you with not only excellent care, but education to help you navigate your specific journey.

At Family Seasons, we have special place in our hearts for infants and look forward to working with yours!

Mommy & Me CST Service

Our Infant CranioSacral Therapy Service offers gentle and nurturing care for your little one's health and well-being. Our experienced therapists provide specialized sessions tailored to address common infant issues such as breastfeeding difficulties, colic, and sleep disturbances. What sets us apart is our commitment to convenience—we offer home visits, allowing your baby to receive care in the comfort of your own home. Additionally, our "Mommy & Me CST" appointments provide an opportunity for both mother and baby to experience the benefits of CranioSacral Therapy together, fostering a deeper bond and promoting relaxation for both. Trust Family Seasons to provide compassionate and effective care for your infant's needs.

FAQ

What is Infant CranioSacral Therapy?

Infant CranioSacral Therapy (ICST) is a gentle, non-invasive therapeutic approach used to evaluate and address imbalances in an infant's craniosacral system, which includes the brain, spinal cord, and cerebrospinal fluid.
How is ICST different from regular CranioSacral Therapy?

ICST is specifically adapted for infants and newborns. It employs even lighter touch techniques and is tailored to the unique needs of infants to promote relaxation and alleviate potential issues related to childbirth and infancy.
What are the common reasons parents seek ICST for their infants?

Parents often seek ICST for issues like colic, breastfeeding difficulties, sleep disturbances, torticollis, and developmental delays, as well as for overall wellness and to support a calm, balanced nervous system.
Is ICST safe for infants?

Yes, ICST is generally considered safe when performed by a trained and experienced practitioner. The gentle, non-invasive nature of the therapy minimizes risks.
How does ICST work?

ICST practitioners use light touch to detect and release tensions in the craniosacral system. By doing so, they aim to promote better circulation of cerebrospinal fluid and restore balance to the nervous system.

At what age can infants receive ICST?

ICST can be performed on infants from the newborn stage and onwards. It is often sought in the first few weeks or months of life, but older infants can also benefit from the therapy.
How long does an ICST session typically last for an infant?

ICST sessions for infants are typically shorter than those for adults, usually lasting around 30 minutes. The duration may vary depending on the specific needs of the infant.
Are there any contraindications or situations where ICST should be avoided?

ICST is generally safe, but it's essential to consult with a healthcare provider before pursuing ICST if the infant has a severe medical condition or recent head injury. The practitioner will adapt their approach accordingly.
What are the potential benefits of ICST for infants?

ICST is believed to support an infant's overall well-being by helping to alleviate discomfort, improve sleep patterns, enhance breastfeeding, reduce stress, and potentially address developmental challenges.
How can parents find a qualified ICST practitioner for their infant?

Parents should look for certified CranioSacral Therapy practitioners like those at Family Seasons, with extensive training and experience in treating infants.