Craniosacral therapy uses a gentle, non-invasive technique for a multitude of conditions, including the prevention and treatment of dementia. This treatment focuses on the cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) surrounding the brain and spinal cord (the central nervous system) and permeating the fascia. On its own, CSF is tightly regulated, released in a pulsing rhythm from ventricles in the brain and drained through the venous and lymphatic system, completely renewing itself 4 to 5 times each day. This action is strongest during sleep, when the brain “bathes” itself. CSF is critical for protection (shock absorption), delivery of nutrients and waste removal.^1-3

A craniosacral practitioner uses light touch to feel (described as “listening to”) the craniosacral rhythm, assessing for restrictions of flow and movement. Various light touch techniques are then implemented to gently restore CSF flow and rebalance movement. This therapy is very calming to the nervous system and used to treat many conditions including chronic pain, migraines, traumatic brain injuries and concussions, anxiety and depression, digestive issues, TMJ and more. Research has shown that CST also has positive outcomes for patients with post-concussion syndrome (including improved memory) and dementia (reduced agitation and aggression).^4,5

While a complete understanding of dementia processes is still being debated and researched, one common variable is chronic inflammation in the body that eventually leads to inflammation in the brain.^6,7 This source of inflammation is commonly associated with diabetes, referred to as “type 3 diabetes,” or other preexisting inflammatory diseases. In terms of epigenetics, chronic inflammation is a trigger for disease onset. Hence, reducing chronic inflammation has gained traction in the prevention and treatment of dementia and Alzheimer’s disease (AD) — and this is where craniosacral therapy holds much promise.

Inflammation in the brain restricts the flow of CSF to certain areas, blocking the delivery of nutrients and removal of waste and thus allowing more damage to occur. Research shows a significant impairment in CSF flow in persons with dementia and AD.^8-10 Craniosacral therapy works to reduce inflammation by facilitating the flow, and subsequent renewal, of CSF; thus, enhancing delivery of nutrients and removal of waste. Because of this, it has become a therapy worthy of our attention for the prevention and treatment of dementia and AD.

Please note that craniosacral therapy should not be considered as a singular approach but should be included as part of a holistic health plan, one that also includes optimizing health and reducing chronic inflammation. (See “Anti-Inflammation: The Greatest Health Influencer,” Desert Health, July/Aug 2024).

Dr. Shari Jainuddin is a naturopathic primary care doctor at One Life Naturopathic. She has conducted research on Alzheimer’s disease at the Feil Family Brain & Mind Research Institute at Weill Cornell Medical College and offers biofeedback training and craniosacral therapy. For more information, call (442) 256.5963 or visit www.onelifenaturopathic.org.

References available upon request.