I am often asked about the effectiveness of CranioSacral (CS) therapy and children with Autism.  CS is an alternative treatment that involves using gentle touch to help balance cerebrospinal fluid flow.  Its origins stem back to the work of an Osteopathic physician named William Sutherland who developed the technique cranial osteopathy.  In 1970, Dr. John Upledger applied the work of Dr. Sutherland after observing the rhythmic movement in the membrane that surrounds the brain and spinal cord while he was assisting with surgeries.

The work involves pressure or touching the skull, neck, jaw, sacrum, hands and feet.  The purpose is to time the sequence of breathing and CSF flow.  It is a gentle and non-invasive therapy.  There is no scientific evidence demonstrating the effectiveness of CS therapy and the treatment of Autism, but there have been reported case studies demonstrating more relaxed children with improved eye contact and interaction following these treatments. 

I recommend parents use caution with their expectations involving CS therapy.  Being a therapy of the healing arts, it is also important to get a referral for a good therapist that demonstrates a unique skill and healing touch.  All massage and touch techniques can have a therapeutic effect on the nervous system by stimulating sensory receptors and improving blood flow and circulation.  This may improve behavior and other concomitants associated with Autistic Spectrum Disorders similar to child responses to shapes, objects, pressure and textures.