Craniosacral Fascial Therapy and how it compliments Orofacial Myofunctional Therapy, Speech, and Feeding therapy to Help You Be Your BEST.
What is Craniosacral Fascial Therapy (CFT)?
Craniosacral Fascial Therapy (CFT) is a holistic, hands-on therapeutic approach designed to release tension within the body's fascial and craniosacral systems. CFT blends the two established modalities of Dr. William Sutherland's Cranial Sacral Therapy and John Barnes' Myofascial Release, along with dental techniques developed from Dr. Gillespie’s experience as a periodontist. In Arizona, CFT is gaining recognition for its ability to address a wide range of physical and emotional issues by improving the natural flow of cerebrospinal fluid around the brain and spinal cord. This gentle therapy combines the principles of craniosacral therapy, which focuses on the cranial bones and the fluid dynamics within the central nervous system, with fascial release techniques that target the connective tissue (fascia) throughout the body.
CFT is particularly beneficial for individuals dealing with chronic pain, headaches, sleep disturbances, and oral health issues such as tongue ties. By addressing restrictions in the fascia and craniosacral system, CFT helps to restore balance and function to the body, promoting overall wellness. At Breathe Eat Sleep Talk in Arizona, we integrate CFT with other therapies, such as myofunctional and feeding therapy, to provide a comprehensive approach that supports long-term health and healing. Whether you're seeking relief from specific symptoms or looking to enhance your overall well-being, Craniosacral Fascial Therapy offers a natural, effective solution.
Key Components of CFT:
Craniosacral System: This system involves the membranes and fluid surrounding the brain and spinal cord. Proper function of this system is crucial for overall health and well-being. CFT works to ensure that this system is free from restrictions, promoting optimal fluid flow and neurological function.
Fascial Release: Fascia is a network of connective tissue that runs throughout the body, providing support and structure. When this tissue becomes tight or restricted due to injury, stress, or trauma, it can lead to pain and dysfunction. CFT involves gentle manipulation to release these fascial restrictions, allowing the body to move more freely and function more effectively.
Why CFT and Myo?
1
Holistic Healing and Fascia Release with CFT:
CFT is a holistic therapy that focuses on releasing tension within the fascia, the connective tissue that surrounds muscles, organs, and bones. By relieving these restrictions, CFT helps to enhance the body’s natural healing processes, promoting better function and overall well-being. In the context of myofunctional therapy, releasing fascial tension can significantly improve the outcomes of treatment by ensuring that the muscles and tissues in the face, mouth, and throat are free to move and function as intended.
2
Enhancing Myofunctional Therapy outcomes:
Myofunctional therapy targets issues such as tongue thrust, improper swallowing, and mouth breathing by retraining the muscles of the face, mouth, and throat. CFT complements this process by addressing underlying fascial restrictions that may be limiting muscle function. By integrating CFT into myofunctional therapy, the two therapies work synergistically to create a more effective and comprehensive treatment plan, leading to more sustainable results in oral function and overall health.
3
Support During Orthodontic Treatment and Frenectomy:
CFT is particularly beneficial for individuals undergoing orthodontic treatment or frenectomy procedures (the release of tongue or lip ties). Before and after these procedures, CFT can help prepare the craniosacral system and fascia for changes, reducing tension and promoting faster, more effective healing. When combined with myofunctional therapy, CFT ensures that the structural changes made by orthodontics or frenectomy are supported by optimal muscle and tissue function, reducing the risk of relapse and enhancing long-term oral health.
When the body’s fascial system is freed and the muscles are aligned through therapy, the innate healing mechanisms are awakened, allowing the body to restore balance, function, and overall health.
Benefits of CFT
Releases Tension
CFT is designed to release deep-seated tension in the craniosacral system and fascia, which can help alleviate pain and improve mobility.
Supports Healing
By improving the flow of cerebrospinal fluid and releasing fascial tension, CFT helps to support the body’s natural healing processes
Enhances Myofunctional Therapy
CFT complements myofunctional therapy by addressing the underlying fascial restrictions that may impede progress. This is particularly beneficial before and after procedures like frenectomies or during orthodontic treatment, as it promotes better outcomes and overall oral function
Tongue up, lips closed and breathe through your nose
Craniosacral Fascial Therapy (CFT) and Myofunctional Therapy are a natural fit, working together to address both the structural and functional aspects of oral health. While myofunctional therapy focuses on retraining the muscles of the face, mouth, and throat to improve breathing, swallowing, and speech, CFT targets the underlying fascial restrictions that can impede this progress. By releasing tension in the craniosacral system, CFT creates an optimal environment for myofunctional therapy to be more effective, especially during critical times such as pre- and post-frenectomy or during orthodontic treatment. Together, these therapies offer a comprehensive approach that enhances oral function and promotes long-lasting health outcomes.