CranioSacral Therapy (CST) for Infants

What is CranioSacral Therapy?

CranioSacral Therapy (CST) is a gentle, hands-on manual therapy that evaluates and enhances the function of the CranioSacral system—the membranes and cerebrospinal fluid that surround and protect the brain and spinal cord.

Using a light touch (about 5 grams—the weight of a nickel), practitioners release restrictions in soft tissues and fascia to support the body’s innate ability to self-correct.

CST is:

• Non-invasive and safe for newborns, including preterm infants.
• Complementary to lactation/breastfeeding support, pediatric OT/PT/speech therapy, chiropractic care, and medical interventions.
• Typically performed on a massage table, but can also occur while the baby is nursing, sleeping, or resting in a parent’s arms.

Clinical Benefits for Infants

Infancy is a critical window for development. CST is often used to address physical and emotional stress resulting from the birthing process, particularly after long labors, C-sections, or vacuum/forceps interventions. It is also used to release tension patterns resulting from fetal malposition or malpresentation, or from tethered oral tissues.

• Feeding and oral function
• Symmetrical positioning and movement (Torticollis, Plagiocephaly-irregular head shape)
• Digestive support (GI discomfort, reflux)
• Sleep and state regulation (fussiness, sleep/wake patterns)
• Reducing tension from birth
• Chronic ear infections

When to Refer for Treatment

Consider CranioSacral Therapy when the following is observed:

• Baby has a shallow or painful latch despite position changes/modifications
• Baby seems stuck in an extension/arched posture
• Baby has difficulty nursing on one side or mother reports pain on one side when nursing
• Baby favors turning head to one side
• Baby is consistently fussy or struggles to settle after a feeding (or organize before)
• Oral function remains limited after tongue/lip tie revision or when deciding not to revise
• Baby experienced a stressful/traumatic birth.

Occupational Therapy (Infant)

Supporting development, sensory processing, and functional skills.

Common areas addressed:

• Torticollis and body/head asymmetry
• Early motor development, delayed milestones
• Fussiness, colic, state control difficulties
• Birth trauma and its impact on comfort, movement, and feeding
• Feeding and oral‑motor challenges (breast or bottle feeding)
• Sleep concerns
• Positioning, symmetrical movement patterns
• Parent and caregiver education to support developmental positioning and movement, sensory/nervous system regulation, and infant development

About Ease Holistic Therapies

At Ease Holistic Therapies, Robyn brings 25 years of experience in pediatric Occupational Therapy across diverse settings, including pediatric hospitals, NICU, schools, Early Intervention, and private practice. Her approach is holistic and family-centered, integrating gentle manual therapy with a deep understanding of development, sensory processing, and the body, creating a holistic and individualized treatment experience for every child and family. Robyn honors the connection between body, mind, and emotional well-being to support each child’s unique journey toward greater comfort, function, and quality of life.

Believing that parents, caregivers, and family members are essential partners in the therapeutic process, Robyn places strong emphasis on caregiver education and support. She helps families feel informed, empowered, and actively involved in their child’s care. Through personalized guidance for parents, caregivers, and educators, Robyn fosters nurturing environments that promote growth, well-being, and the ability for every child to thrive.

Consultation

A complimentary consultation is offered to discuss concerns, provide guidance on treatment options, and support with insurance reimbursement.

Billing

Superbills for insurance reimbursement are provided upon request.