What is Craniosacral Therapy for Babies?
— 2 min read —
Craniosacral therapy (CST) is a very gentle, hands-on therapy that helps release tension in a baby's body - especially around the head, neck and spine. It supports the nervous system and helps babies feel more calm, comfortable and balanced.
Why Would a Baby Need It?
Baby's positioning in the womb and birth can be a tough experience, even in smooth deliveries. Babies might experience tightness or pressure in their head or body that affects how they eat, sleep or settle.
CST may help with:
Difficulty latching
Colic or lots of gassiness
Head turn preference
Flat spots on head
Trouble sleeping or constant fussiness
Recovery from a fast, long or assisted birth (forceps/vacuum/C-section)
What Happens During a Session?
At the first appointment, we’ll take some time to learn about your baby’s health history and birth story. Your baby stays fully clothed and will either lie on a soft table or be held by you or the therapist—whatever feels best for both of you.
Craniosacral Therapy (CST) uses a super gentle touch—about the weight of a nickel—to feel for areas of tension in your baby’s body and help them relax. This can sometimes include gentle work inside the mouth to support feeding, sucking, and other related concerns.
During a session, some babies get very calm and relaxed. Others might fuss or cry a little, especially if they’re releasing tension—kind of like a big stretch or yawn. After a session, parents often notice changes like more balanced movements, less fussiness, easier time breastfeeding, or more comfortable digestion and poops.
While some crying can happen, rest assured CST is never painful. It’s very gentle, and we always follow your baby’s lead. Your baby’s comfort—and yours—is our top priority.
What May Happen After a Session?
Every baby responds a little differently to craniosacral therapy. Some babies may:
Want to feed or sleep more than usual after the session
Be a little extra fussy for a day or two
Show changes right away—like feeding more easily or being more relaxed
Or not show any noticeable changes until after a few naps or a deep sleep
If you don’t notice any changes, it might be worth trying another session. Healing is a process, and we always follow your baby’s pace.
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CRANIOSACRAL THERAPY
This service is designed for little ones — from newborns to young children — who may benefit from gentle support for feeding, digestion, sleep, head shape concerns, birth-related tension, or simply to help their bodies feel more comfortable and balanced.
This post was written by wellbe’s Registered Massage Therapist Sheila Young. Book your little one’s first visit with her at wellbe leslieville here and wellbe beaches here. Craniosacral Therapy is also available as a treatment for women’s health.
