By Alicia Saimbi · Osteopathic Manual Practitioner at Anatomica
What It Is, Who It Helps & What to Expect
If you have never heard of craniosacral therapy, or craniosacral osteopathy, you are not alone. Most people discover it through a recommendation and walk out of their first session saying the same thing:
"What was THAT??"
It is one of the most gentle treatments we offer at Anatomica. And often, one of the most surprisingly effective.
What Is Craniosacral Therapy?
Craniosacral therapy is a hands-on technique that works with the bones of the head, spine, and pelvis and the subtle rhythmic movement of the cerebrospinal fluid that flows around the brain and spinal cord.
The treatment is exceptionally light-touch. No cracking, no deep pressure. Just precise, intentional contact that helps the body release tension at a structural and nervous system level.
What Does a Craniosacral Osteopathy Session Look Like?
You will lie fully clothed on a treatment table both on your back and stomach at different points in the session. Each appointment is approximately 45 minutes.
Alicia works across the full body, not just the head. She may work with the upper back, the base of the skull, the sacrum, or the pelvis depending on what your body needs. The movements are so subtle you might wonder if anything is happening and then notice a profound shift in how you feel.
Who Is Craniosacral Therapy For?
Alicia most commonly sees patients with the following conditions. Does any of these sound familiar?
| Headaches & migraines | TMJ / jaw pain | Tinnitus |
| Neck pain | Concussions | Tailbone pain |
| Lower & upper back pain | Stress | Repetitive stress injuries |
| The condition that surprises people most:Lower back pain. Most people do not associate a gentle head-and-spine treatment with lower back relief but the whole system is connected. Releasing tension at the cranial level often resolves pain much further down the body. |
How Did Alicia Come to Craniosacral?
Alicia's path to craniosacral therapy came through dance. Working with a dancer whose teacher practiced craniosacral therapy, she experienced the work firsthand and knew she needed to learn more. That curiosity led her to train in the modality and inspired her to complete the 6-year osteopathic program at the Swiss International College of Osteopathy. She currently integrates her dance, craniosacral, and osteopathy training into her practice at Anatomica.
How Many Sessions Do You Need?
Alicia recommends starting with 2 to 3 sessions close enough together to capitalize on the momentum of a new therapeutic start. Many patients notice a meaningful shift within that window. Ongoing maintenance sessions depend on your condition and goals.
Is It Covered by Insurance?
| Yes covered by most extended health plans.Craniosacral therapy at Anatomica is billed under osteopathy. Direct billing is available on most policies. Check your plan or ask our front desk. |
Who Should NOT Book Craniosacral?
Craniosacral therapy is not recommended for anyone with an acute head injury that has not yet been medically cleared for manual therapy treatment. If you have recently experienced significant head trauma, please consult your physician first.
For all other conditions, it is a very safe and effective treatment suitable for most ages.
Frequently Asked Questions
| What does craniosacral therapy feel like? Most patients describe it as deeply relaxing almost like a meditative state. You may feel warmth, tingling, a sense of release, or subtle movement in areas that have been held tight for years. Some people feel emotional during or after a session, which is completely normal. |
| Is craniosacral therapy safe during pregnancy? Yes. Prenatal craniosacral therapy is offered at Anatomica and is a safe, gentle option for managing back pain, pelvic discomfort, and nervous system tension during pregnancy. |
| How is it different from a regular massage? Massage therapy primarily works with the muscles through direct pressure and movement. Craniosacral therapy works with the subtle movement of the cranial bones and the rhythmic response to cerebrospinal fluid fluctuations in the brain and spinal cord. When there are disturbances to this rhythm, it can extend to structures throughout the body diaphragms, bones, soft tissue. These can be balanced with precise, gentle touch. The effect is systemic rather than only local. |
| Can children receive craniosacral therapy? Yes. Pediatric craniosacral therapy is particularly effective for infants and young children dealing with colic, latching difficulties, plagiocephaly (flat head), sleep issues, and developmental tensions from birth. Older children with constipation, gait issues, or W-sitting habits can also benefit. |
Book with Alicia at Anatomica
Alicia practices at Anatomica Health & Wellness, 1302 Bloor St W in West End Toronto. She is currently accepting new patients.
