Craniosacral Therapy in Budapest’s 13th District

What is craniosacral therapy?

Craniosacral therapy is an exceptionally gentle, hands-on approach whose modern form is associated with the work of Dr John E. Upledger, an American osteopathic physician. As a researcher and professor of biomechanics at Michigan State University, Upledger spent years studying the craniosacral system, which connects the skull, spine and sacrum with the membranes surrounding the brain and spinal cord.

During treatment, Mária uses gentle, light touch on areas including the head, neck, spine, torso and sacrum. Craniosacral techniques involve exceptionally light contact; according to descriptions of the Upledger method, the pressure applied is typically no more than approximately 5 grams.

The method does not involve:

• forceful manipulation;

• joint cracking;

• abrupt joint movements;

• painful techniques;

• invasive procedures.

The therapist selects the techniques used during the session based on the body’s responses and the tension she feels in the tissues.

The aim is not to force the body “back into place”, but to support the release of tension, relaxation and the body’s natural processes of self-regulation.

Looking beyond the area of discomfort

Neck tension, headaches or back discomfort may involve more than just the area where symptoms are felt.

For this reason, Mária considers more than just the area of discomfort during treatment.

The initial assessment may include:

• observing posture;

• observing movement patterns;

• assessing muscle tone and tension;

• observing breathing patterns;

• discussing lifestyle and physical demands;

• taking previous injuries and surgery into account;

• discussing stress levels;

• exploring the patient’s own bodily sensations and experiences.

In Mária’s approach, physical and emotional processes cannot be viewed as entirely separate. Persistent stress, increased demands, previous injuries and difficult life circumstances can all influence how we feel in our bodies.

What concerns lead people to seek craniosacral treatment?

People may consider craniosacral treatment for concerns such as the following:

Stress and nervous system overload

• persistent stress;

• increased physical tension;

• difficulty relaxing;

• exhaustion;

• a feeling of nervous system overload;

• a need for recovery.

Sleep and rest

• difficulty falling asleep;

• unrefreshing sleep;

• sleep difficulties associated with stress;

• recovery after periods of increased physical or mental strain.

Neck, shoulders, upper and lower back

• muscle tension associated with desk work;

• tension in the neck and shoulder area;

• tension in the upper or lower back;

• postural strain;

• a feeling of restricted movement.

Headaches, migraine, and tension in the head and face

People who seek craniosacral treatment from Mária may experience:

• recurring headaches;

• migraine;

• tension-type headaches;

• tension at the back of the head;

• facial tension.

However, new, unusual or severe headaches require medical assessment first.

Jaw tension, teeth clenching and dental treatment

Craniosacral treatment may be considered as a complementary approach for:

• tension around the jaw;

• temporomandibular joint (TMJ) problems;

• teeth clenching;

• teeth grinding;

• tension in the chewing muscles;

• persistent tension during or following orthodontic or other dental treatment.

Tinnitus, ear pressure and dizziness

People seeking craniosacral treatment may also experience:

• tinnitus;

• a feeling of pressure or fullness in the ears;

• dizziness;

• unsteadiness;

• balance problems.

These symptoms can have many different causes. Medical assessment should therefore precede complementary treatment, particularly when symptoms are new or worsening.

What happens during a treatment session?

1. Conversation and initial assessment

At the first appointment, Mária begins with a conversation before the patient lies down on the treatment couch.

She first discusses:

• current symptoms;

• how long they have been present;

• previous illnesses;

• injuries and surgery;

• regularly taken medication;

• any circulatory or neurological conditions;

• lifestyle and physical demands;

• stress levels;

• the goals of treatment and the patient’s expectations.

If the patient has previous specialist reports, imaging results or rehabilitation records, reviewing these can also help with planning a safe treatment.

2. Observing how the body functions

Where appropriate, Mária observes the patient’s:

• posture;

• movement patterns;

• areas of muscle tension;

• breathing;

• habitual patterns of physical activity and strain.

This is not a medical diagnostic examination. Its purpose is to help plan an individually tailored treatment.

3. Personalised treatment plan

Based on her observations and the patient’s goals, Mária selects the techniques appropriate for that particular session.

Alongside craniosacral treatment, other approaches within her scope of practice may be incorporated into the treatment process where appropriate for the patient’s condition.

These may include:

• gentle soft tissue treatment;

• stretching;

• movements to support mobility;

• exercises coordinated with breathing;

• exercises to develop body awareness.

Craniosacral treatment

Treatment usually takes place with the patient lying comfortably on the treatment couch.

Craniosacral techniques can generally be performed with the patient fully clothed, so comfortable, loose clothing is recommended.

Mária works with very gentle, light touch. Some techniques may be so subtle that the patient feels only minimal contact.

The patient’s feedback remains important throughout the session. If any technique feels uncomfortable, the treatment can be adjusted or stopped.

Other approaches may be included when appropriate

Within the scope of her qualifications and professional practice, Mária may also use alternative movement and massage therapy techniques alongside craniosacral therapy.

Gentle soft tissue treatment

Manual treatment of muscles, connective tissues and areas affected by physical strain aims to support the release of muscle tension, encourage relaxation and improve comfort.

The treatment intensity, the areas addressed and the patient’s comfort level are discussed individually at each session.

Mobilisation and stretching

The treatment process may also include gentle, individually tailored mobilisation or stretching techniques.

These may be particularly helpful for people who work at a desk, experience postural strain or a feeling of restricted movement, or following everyday physical exertion.

Breathing and body awareness

Coordinating movement with breathing and becoming more aware of bodily sensations may help patients recognise their own patterns of tension and movement habits.

Some of the simple exercises learned during treatment can also be practised at home.

What might you feel during treatment?

This varies greatly from person to person.

Some people experience:

• deep relaxation;

• warmth;

• a feeling of lightness;

• tingling;

• a sense of release in a previously tense area;

• changes in breathing;

• an overall sense of calm.

Others may notice little beyond the touch of Mária’s hands.

It is also entirely normal to fall asleep during treatment.

There is no particular physical response that you are expected to experience.

After treatment

At the end of the session, Mária and the patient discuss:

• how the patient felt during treatment;

• whether any bodily sensations changed;

• whether any unusual reactions occurred;

• whether another session is needed.

Where appropriate, she may also offer simple advice that can be followed at home, including guidance on:

• body awareness;

• breathing;

• rest;

• gentle movement.

These suggestions do not replace treatment prescribed by a doctor, physiotherapist or other healthcare professional.

How many sessions are needed?

There is no single answer that applies to everyone.

The number of sessions may depend on:

• the nature of the concern;

• how long it has been present;

• physical and lifestyle demands;

• the patient’s current condition;

• the individual response to treatment.

Some people attend a few sessions during a demanding period, while others choose a longer course or occasional maintenance sessions.

Based on the first appointment, Mária discusses with the patient whether further treatment is appropriate and how frequently sessions might take place.

Important: when is medical assessment needed first?

Craniosacral therapy is a complementary, supportive approach.

It does not replace:

• medical diagnosis;

• medical treatment;

• medication;

• physiotherapy;

• psychotherapy;

• emergency care for acute or urgent conditions.

Symptoms that have no known cause, persist or worsen should be medically assessed first.

Symptoms or circumstances that may require urgent medical attention instead of craniosacral treatment include:

• sudden or rapidly worsening severe pain;

• chest pain;

• shortness of breath;

• fainting;

• weakness on one side of the body;

• problems with speech or vision;

• high fever;

• an active infection;

• a recent accident or injury;

• sudden neurological symptoms.

In cases involving recent surgery or injury, thrombosis, active cancer treatment, severe cardiovascular disease, bleeding disorders, anticoagulant medication or pregnancy, suitability for treatment must be assessed individually, with medical consultation where necessary.

Complementary treatment in a medical setting

One advantage of Visegrádi40 is that Mária can provide complementary treatment in a healthcare setting, working with other professionals when needed.

If the patient’s symptoms warrant further assessment, appropriate medical or other specialist care can be involved.

The aim is to bring medical and complementary approaches together so that every patient receives safe care suited to their condition.