Craniosacral therapy, a light-touch, hands-on therapy, is an increasingly popular alternative modality that may provide substantial benefits to older adults, according to a study by a researcher at RTI International.

The author of the exploratory study, published in the January 2007 issue of The International Journal of Healing and Caring, said that the use of craniosacral therapy to manage pain, facilitate rehabilitation, and reduce agitation and hypertension, among others, appeared promising and should be further investigated.

"This study does not establish effectiveness of craniosacral therapy for any specific medical condition, but it does suggest that the therapy may provide substantial benefits to older adults," said Edie Walsh, Ph.D., RTI health services researcher. "In the future, clinical studies could be conducted to determine the effectiveness of craniosacral therapy for treating specific clinical conditions."

Craniosacral therapy detects and corrects imbalances in the membranes and fluids that surround and protect the brain and spinal cord and releases restrictions in the connective tissues throughout the body. Patients seek the therapy to treat ailments such as migraines, neck and back pain, orthopedic problems, stress and tension-related problems, autism and chronic fatigue.

As part of the study, in-depth interviews were conducted with 20 advanced cransiosacral therapy practitioners from 14 states and a variety of professions, including massage, physical and occupational therapy. The author also reviewed information on 52,000 individuals trained in craniosacral therapy by the Upledger Institute, the main training program for craniosacral therapy in the United States.

The practitioners reported that after craniosacral therapy treatments their older clients frequently experienced substantial pain reduction and were often able to discontinue or reduce their reliance on pain medications. Physical and occupational therapists reported that the diminished pain allowed their clients to more fully participate in rehabilitation exercises.

"According to the practitioners, most older patients seek the therapy to relieve pain," Walsh said. "Craniosacral therapy is particularly suited to older adults because it applies very little pressure and allows clients to remain clothed, avoiding the physical and social challenges associated with undressing."

The popularity of the therapy continues to increase. Over the past 20 years, the Upledger Institute has increased its introductory level classes