Written by Fiona McDevitt

In a sentence Physiotherapy works from the outside in and Craniosacral therapy works from the
inside out!

Although both are very evidence based and scientific, physiotherapy is more structured. After a
thorough assessment the injured structure or movement dysfunction is identified. With this
diagnosis, the appropriate treatment is applied accordingly and in in a timely manner, appropriate to
the stage of healing. The focus is on muscles, joints and other soft tissue like ligaments and tendons,
as well as movement patterns.

Craniosacral therapy assesses the whole body as well, but through the fascial system which is the
soft tissue membrane surrounding all the organs, muscles and cells in the body. Any areas of tension
or restriction are identified and the therapist, thorough their gentle touch, offers the body a safe
space to relax and facilitate homeostasis. This is the body’s ongoing effort to seek balance and
equilibrium. CST is led by the client’s body, where physiotherapy is led by the injured structure and
the stage of healing it is at.

Both treatments involve listening will all of one’s senses, and palpation. Craniosacral is a deeper
palpation but with a lighter touch, less poking and prodding which is more like physio! Craniosacral
therapy follows the body’s inherent wisdom.

The therapist listens attentively to the client, as well as listening to the client’s body through their
hands. It is true, “The Body Keeps the Score”, and we all need to be heard.
The great thing is that these two wonderful treatments can be combined depending on what is most
appropriate for the client.

Craniosacral Therapy:
* People generally find it very relaxing
* During the session the client is lying on the bed, very little movement if any takes place
* Clients may remain fully clothed during a session, except shoes
* Sometimes there is verbal dialogue during a session, other times there is quiet as the body gently
unwinds
* Sometimes emotions come to the fore and the Craniosacral therapist will assist the client in
releasing these in a gentle and safe way
* Before and after the treatment the therapist will explain and discuss the session with the client
* The effects may not manifest for a couple of days as the body continues to process the treatment
Physiotherapy:
* People may need to undress parts of their body to be examined for
swelling/bruising/colour/relative positions/movement patterns etc.

* The client will be asked to move in different positions for the assessment and treatments such as
standing/sitting/lying down
* The physio will explain in detail what the injury or dysfunction is and the process of healing as well
as how the treatments will help.
* The effects are usually felt during and after the treatment.