[Editor's Note: This article was originally published in July 2014 and has been updated for accuracy and comprehensiveness.]

In recent years, more people living with chronic migraines have begun exploring craniosacral therapy (CST) and other holistic treatments as part of a comprehensive approach to pain management. While conventional treatments such as prescription medications and medical procedures remain mainstays of care, many patients are also exploring complementary alternative options like acupuncture, biofeedback, and craniosacral therapy (CST).

These therapies focus on reducing stress, improving circulation, and restoring balance in the body—factors that can play a role in migraine frequency and intensity. This article explores what craniosacral therapy is, how it works, and what research says about its potential role in migraine relief.

Quick Answers: Craniosacral Therapy for Migraines

Q: What is craniosacral therapy for migraines?

A: Craniosacral therapy (CST) is a gentle, hands-on technique that uses light touch to relieve tension in the tissues around the brain and spinal cord. It aims to improve circulation, reduce stress, and promote balance in the nervous system—all of which may help decrease migraine frequency and intensity.

Q: Can craniosacral therapy really help with migraines?

A: While craniosacral therapy isn’t a cure for migraines, many people report fewer or less severe headaches after regular sessions. Research suggests CST may help by reducing stress and muscle tension, improving fluid flow, and supporting relaxation.

Q: Is craniosacral therapy safe?

A: Yes. CST is generally safe when performed by a licensed practitioner. It’s noninvasive, drug-free, and can be used alongside medical migraine treatments as part of a holistic care plan.

Understanding Craniosacral Therapy (CST)

Craniosacral therapy is a gentle, hands-on technique that targets the craniosacral system—the membranes and cerebrospinal fluid surrounding the brain and spinal cord. Practitioners use light touch to detect subtle rhythms in this system and apply gentle pressure to promote better flow and alignment. Sessions typically last about an hour, and patients remain fully clothed throughout.

CST was originally developed by osteopathic physician Dr. John Upledger in the 1970s, and while its mechanisms are still being studied, it is often used by massage therapists, physical therapists, osteopaths and other healthcare professionals as a complementary therapy for pain and stress-related conditions.

How Craniosacral Therapy May Help with Migraines

Migraines are complex neurological events influenced by blood vessel changes, nerve signaling, and brain chemistry. Stress, poor sleep, dehydration, and muscle tension in the neck and scalp are common triggers.

Because craniosacral therapy focuses on relaxing the central nervous system and improving circulation, it may help reduce some of these contributing factors.

Potential benefits of CST for migraine patients include:

• Reduced muscle tension: Gentle manipulation may help relax muscles in the neck, shoulders, and scalp, where tension can contribute to headaches.

• Improved circulation and fluid flow: By encouraging balanced movement of cerebrospinal fluid, CST may help improve nutrient exchange and waste removal around the brain.

• Stress relief: The deep relaxation achieved during CST sessions can lower stress levels—a major migraine trigger.

• Better sleep and overall well-being: Many patients report improved sleep quality and general relaxation following regular CST sessions.

Although CST is not a cure for migraines, many patients describe fewer or less intense headache episodes after incorporating it into their migraine management plan.

What the Research Says

Scientific research on craniosacral therapy remains limited, and results are mixed. Some small studies and patient surveys suggest that CST may help reduce headache frequency and improve quality of life for migraine sufferers, while others find minimal or no measurable effect beyond relaxation.

The consensus among experts is that CST can be a safe and supportive complementary treatment—particularly for individuals who experience stress-related migraines or prefer a holistic approach to care. However, it should not replace medically prescribed migraine treatments without a physician’s guidance.

Who Might Benefit Most

CST may be especially helpful for chronic migraine patients who:

• Experience frequent (more than 15 days per month) or long-lasting headaches

• Have migraines accompanied by neck tension, stress, or anxiety

• Are sensitive to or seeking to reduce reliance on medication

• Want to add a noninvasive, relaxing therapy to their migraine prevention plan

Integrative Care for Migraines

At the Migraine Relief Center, we believe that a multifaceted approach offers the best chance of lasting relief. Combining medical treatments with evidence-informed complementary therapies like CST, acupuncture, relaxation training, and nutritional adjustments can help patients manage migraine triggers more effectively and improve overall wellness.

If you’re curious about craniosacral therapy or other holistic migraine treatments, schedule an evaluation with our team and we'll work with you to find the treatment or combination of solutions to support your migraine relief.