As a parent, you know your baby better than anyone else. When your little one is struggling, whether they’re constantly crying or have feeding challenges, reflux, or discomfort, trust your instinct. If you tried everything, unsure what the next step should be, or you’re concerned your baby isn’t progressing, you’re not alone. Craniosacral Therapy (CST) could be the gentle, effective, easy, and quick solution you’re looking for. Craniosacral Therapy is a non-invasive, soft-touch approach that helps release tension in a baby’s body, promoting movement and function. Tension in a baby’s body can cause discomfort or pain, which may contribute to issues like colic, reflux, digestive problems, feeding difficulties, torticollis, or tongue tie. CST works holistically to support better movement, emotional regulation, and a balanced nervous system. After a session, many parents notice that their baby turns their head more easily, latches better, sleeps more soundly, and seems more comfortable overall.

Common conditions CST can help in babies include:

• Colic — Reducing excessive crying and fussiness by easing nervous system and digestive tension.
• Reflux: frequent spitting up or discomfort that may lessen as body tension and digestive patterns relax
• Digestive issues — Alleviating gas, constipation, reflux symptoms, and overall tummy discomfort for smoother digestion.
• Sleep issues — Promoting deeper, more restful sleep by calming the nervous system and reducing discomfort.
• Feeding challenges — Addressing overall oral and body restrictions that make feeding frustrating, inefficient, or painful.
• Tongue tie — Releasing associated fascial and body tension (often before or after a release procedure) to enhance tongue movement and reduce related fussiness.
• Torticollis — Gently releasing neck tightness to improve head turning, symmetry, and range of motion.

A real-life transformation

A baby came to my practice due to constantly crying, looking uncomfortable, and struggling with reflux and digestive issues. At the start of the session, the baby was crying. But as the gentle techniques were applied, the baby gradually calmed down, eventually smiling, relaxing, and then falling asleep. The mother reported remarkable transformation after just one session. She said he was crying less, his reflux symptoms eased, his digestion improved, and overall, he seemed much happier. After a few more sessions, she felt confident that her baby was thriving and ready to move on.

Why babies love CST & respond beautifully to CST’s gentle approach

There are times a baby will come into a session crying and fall asleep by the end, feeling at ease and supported. Unlike visual assessments, CST uses hands-on evaluation to intuitively tune into the baby’s body with precision, identifying and addressing tension on a deeper level. CST promotes optimal mobility to support symmetrical and bilateral coordination. When babies move freely by rolling, crawling, or engaging in tummy time, they strengthen both sides of the brain, promoting bilateral integration. This early movement is vital not only for physical strength, but also for brain development, reflex integration, and emotional regulation. When tension limits movement, it can delay developmental milestones and affect brain wiring, potentially leading to challenges with coordination, attention, sensory processing, reading, and learning. For example, a baby who resists tummy time due to discomfort may struggle with or take longer to learn how to roll or crawl. After a session, parents often share that their baby tolerates tummy time better, unlocking milestones and boosting brain growth. CST lays the foundation not just for physical strength but also for emotional resilience and adaptability, an investment in your baby’s present comfort and long-term potential.

Start early & see lasting benefits

CST can begin as early as birth, but it’s never too late to support your baby’s development. By addressing tension patterns early, CST helps babies unwind restrictions naturally, allowing their bodies to move and function optimally without force. This proactive approach can prevent the need for more therapies later on, saving time and money. A happier, more comfortable baby creates an easier adjustment for the baby and family alike. With CST, you’re not just helping your baby feel better today, you’re building a foundation for their future health, learning, and happiness. At our practice, we’re dedicated to optimizing your baby’s natural vitality, helping them express their full potential.

About the Author

Rachel Stein, an Occupational Therapist and Craniosacral Therapist, owns a private practice in Jackson, NJ, called Craniosacral Therapy For Babies, specializing in CST for babies.

Phone: 314-504-5352

Website: http://cstforbabies.com

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