BALANCED HEALTH 
Wellness Center

What is Craniofacial Therapy?

Craniofacial Therapy is a highly specialized, gentle form of manual therapy that focuses on the intricate network of muscles, fascia, and joints of the head, face, and neck. It goes beyond standard massage to address the root causes of chronic pain and dysfunction in these critical areas.

Think of it as physical therapy for your head and face. Our therapists are trained in the precise anatomy and delicate structures of the craniofacial region, using subtle, targeted techniques to release deep-seated tension, restore mobility, and alleviate pain.
 

How Can Craniofacial Therapy Help You?

This therapy is designed for those who have struggled with conditions that often don't respond to conventional treatments. If you experience any of the following, Craniofacial Therapy may be your solution:

• TMJ Disorders (TMD): Jaw pain, clicking, popping, or locking.

• Chronic Headaches & Migraines: Especially tension-type and cervicogenic headaches.

• Bruxism: Teeth grinding and clenching, both day and night.

• Facial Pain & Neuralgia: Unexplained pain in the cheeks, temples, or around the eyes.

• Post-Concussion Symptoms: Headaches, dizziness, and cognitive fog following head trauma.

• Neck Pain & Stiffness: Often linked to tension in the jaw and cranial base.

• Sinus Pressure & Pain: Relieving congestion and pressure not linked to infection.

• Stress & Anxiety: Held as physical tension in the face, jaw, and scalp.
   

What to Expect in a Session: A Gentle, Precise Approach

A session of Craniofacial Therapy is a experience of deep, focused care.

1. Comprehensive Assessment: We begin with a detailed discussion of your history and a physical evaluation, which may include assessing your jaw movement, posture, and palpating muscles of the head and neck.

2. Intuitive, Hands-On Work: You will lie comfortably on a massage table, fully clothed or draped. The therapist uses extremely light, precise pressure—often just grams of force—to release restrictions in the muscles and fascia of your:

   • Jaw (Masseter, Temporalis)

   • Temples and Cheeks

   • Neck and Base of the Skull

   • Scalp and Forehead

3. Internal Work (Optional & Consensual): For certain TMJ issues, your therapist may perform gentle, gloved intra-oral (inside the mouth) work to release the powerful chewing muscles that are otherwise inaccessible. This is always discussed beforehand and requires your explicit consent.

4. Integration and Home Care: The session is slow and methodical, allowing your nervous system to integrate the changes. You will often be given simple exercises or self-care techniques to practice at home to prolong the benefits.
    

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: Is this the same as Craniosacral Therapy?
A: While they share a similar gentle approach and some philosophical roots, Craniofacial Therapy is more structurally focused on the musculoskeletal and fascial systems of the head and face. It is particularly targeted for TMJ disorders and facial pain, whereas Craniosacral Therapy works with the rhythm of the cerebrospinal fluid.

Q: Does it hurt?
A: The therapy itself is very gentle. However, as we release deeply held tension, you may experience a temporary awareness of old pain or a feeling of "good hurt" as the muscle lets go. We always work within your comfort level.

Q: How many sessions will I need?
A: This depends on the chronicity and complexity of your condition. Many clients feel significant relief after just 1-3 sessions. For long-standing issues, a longer care plan may be recommended for lasting results.

Q: What are the qualifications of a Craniofacial Therapist?
A: Our therapists are licensed massage therapists who have completed extensive post-graduate training in craniofacial anatomy, TMJ disorders, and specific release techniques for this delicate region.

Q: Will my insurance cover this?
A: If you have coverage for massage therapy, it may apply. We recommend checking with your insurance provider. We can provide a detailed receipt with applicable codes for you to submit.