PTSD and its symptoms can place your nervous system on an "always-on" mode. It can make completing everyday activities along with meeting work and home expectations challenging. Craniosacral therapy can be very beneficial for those living with PTSD.
Craniosacral Therapy for PTSD
There have been many different cases and research studies focused on craniosacral therapy and PTSD. The focus of the studies has been primarily on military veterans living with PTSD. However, one study has explored craniosacral therapy and its effects on Tibetan ex-political prisoners with PTSD.
3 Medical Surveys for PTSD
There are three main medically utilized surveys for determining the effectiveness of craniosacral therapy and other therapies for PTSD:
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Harvard Trauma Questionnaire
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W.H.O. Brief Quality of Life Survey
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Hopkins Symptom Checklist-25
15 Benefits of Craniosacral Therapy for PTSD
Here is a list of fifteen benefits that may be experienced when using craniosacral therapy for PTSD:
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Discomfort: Overall discomfort may see positive change and reduction
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Pain: Physical sensations of pain may be lowered
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Panic attack: The intensity and number of panic attacks may be observed as lessening
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Sleep: Insomnia dissipated and regular sleep patterns may become more prevalent
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Hypervigilance: Alleviation may be seen and felt, and responses to the world around may become more appropriate; less fight/flight focused.
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Flashbacks: A reduction in flashbacks may be experienced
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Recollection: Ability to remember traumatic effects without being triggered may occur
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Participation: Participation in social events and activities may be less stressful
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Depression: Feelings of depression may be reduced
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Suicide: Suicidal thoughts may be lessened
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Medications: The need for medications for symptoms may become less
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Brain fog: Feelings of forgetfulness, confusion, lack of focus may dissipate
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Clear thinking: Clear thinking and functioning can increase
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Relationships: Greater connection and meaning may be experienced
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Community: Work and community may be more easily connected.
How Many Sessions Will I Need?
Each person who is living with symptoms of PTSD has lived through uniquely different, traumatic events in their lives. For some, it is a one-time life-changing event. For others, it is a traumatic event that lasted over a period of time.
Because of the unique nature of how each person struggles with PTSD, each person responds differently to craniosacral therapy. Therefore, the number of sessions recommended and suggested for treating PTSD is not set in stone.
You may notice changes in your PTSD symptoms after one session; but to experience the full benefit of what the therapy may do for you, you may find that going two-three times a week for a month or two is best suited for you.
To get a stronger idea of the number of sessions which may best fit your needs, talking to your practitioner about it during your first appointment can be a great idea.
What will it Cost?
The average price per session in the country is $70-$170. The total cost of treating PTSD with craniosacral therapy will depend on:
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The number of sessions the practitioner and you choose based on what may best serve you and your health needs. This will likely all be covered when a treatment plan is first developed.
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The frequency you attend those arranged sessions
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The cost per session your practitioner charges.
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If you qualify for any discounts offered by the practitioner conducting your sessions.
For more information, read: How Much Does Craniosacral Therapy Cost?
3 Other Holistic Treatment Options
Craniosacral therapy is not the only option you have when it comes to treating PTSD with a holistic and natural supportive therapy. Here is a list of three choices of therapies that may be beneficial for treating and managing symptoms associated with PTSD:
References:
Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder: Releasing the Grip of Physical and Emotional Trauma. (n.d.). Retrieved April 9, 2019, from http://www.upledger.org/what-we-do/ptsd-relief.php
PSTD could be treated with Craniosacral therapy - IAHE. (n.d.). Retrieved April 9, 2019, from https://www.iahe.com/docs/articles/Article_-_PTSD_could_be_treated_with_Craniosacral_Therapy_according_to_a_research_study.pdf
THE EFFECTS OF UPLEDGER CRANIOSACRAL THERAPY ON POST ... (n.d.). Retrieved April 9, 2019, from http://journals.sfu.ca/seemj/index.php/seemj/article/download/302/265
Upledger CranioSacral Immersion Report for Dr. John E ... (n.d.). Retrieved April 9, 2019, from https://www.upledger.com/docs/2016-CranioSacral-Immersion-Program-Results.pdf
