For many, the search for headache and migraine relief can feel endless with various medications and treatments offering only temporary respite. However, there’s a lesser-known approach that’s gaining traction for its effectiveness in addressing these chronic issues: Craniosacral Fascial Therapy (CFT), particularly the Gillespie Approach.
What is Craniosacral Fascial Therapy (CFT)?
CFT is a gentle, hands-on therapy that combines elements of craniosacral therapy and myofascial release. Developed by Dr. Barry Gillespie, a former periodontist who experienced his own journey of healing from headaches and TMJ (temporomandibular joint disorder), this therapy aims to release tension and strain within the body’s fascial system—a network of connective tissues that surround and support muscles, organs, and other structures in the body.
Dr. Gillespie’s approach was born from his personal struggles with chronic headaches and his realization that conventional medicine didn’t have the answers he needed. After finding relief through osteopathic manipulation, he began studying craniosacral therapy and myofascial release. Combining these with his deep understanding of the oral structures as a dentist, he developed what is now known as the Gillespie Approach to CFT.
How Does CFT Help with Headaches and Migraines?
Headaches and migraines are often the result of underlying issues within the body, such as tension in the cranial bones, jaw, neck, or even deeper in the body’s fascial network. CFT works by gently addressing these areas of strain, allowing the body to unwind and release the tension that may be contributing to pain.
During a CFT session, practitioners use their hands to feel for areas of tightness or restriction within the body. The therapy is non-invasive and guided by the body’s own responses, meaning the practitioner follows the natural movement and release patterns of the fascia. This process can help restore balance to the craniosacral system, potentially alleviating symptoms associated with headaches and migraines.
For many sufferers, headaches are just one of many symptoms caused by fascial strain. The holistic nature of CFT means it doesn’t just address the headache itself but works to uncover and treat the root cause, whether that’s a past injury, dental work, or even birth-related trauma.
Who Can Benefit from CFT?
One of the most compelling aspects of CFT is its versatility. It can be beneficial for people of all ages, from newborns with feeding difficulties due to tongue ties to adults suffering from chronic headaches. In fact, many practitioners see infants who, if untreated, may grow up with conditions that could manifest as headaches, TMJ, or other health issues later in life.
For adults, especially those who have “tried everything,” CFT offers a new approach. It’s not uncommon for individuals to come to CFT after exhausting conventional medical options. The therapy’s ability to address the body as a whole system, rather than focusing solely on the symptom (the headache or migraine), allows it to be a potentially powerful tool in finding lasting relief.
What to Expect During a CFT Session
If you’re considering CFT for your headaches or migraines, you might wonder what a session looks like. Typically, sessions are conducted on a massage table, with the client fully clothed. The practitioner uses gentle pressure to assess and release fascial restrictions. Because CFT is so gentle, it’s even safe for infants and the elderly.
Clients often describe feeling a sense of relaxation and relief after a session. Some may notice an immediate reduction in headache frequency or intensity, while for others, it might take several sessions to experience significant changes. The key is consistency and allowing the body to gradually release the tension it has been holding onto, sometimes for years.
The Gillespie Approach: A Proven Method
The Gillespie Approach to CFT has been taught and practiced around the world, with practitioners like Kim Sherlock and Holly Stefflek leading the charge in bringing this therapy to a broader audience. Kim and Holly, both licensed massage therapists, have spent years traveling and teaching the Gillespie Approach, witnessing firsthand the profound changes it can bring to people’s lives.
Their work, especially with infants and children, emphasizes the importance of early intervention. By addressing issues like tongue ties, cranial molding, and other birth-related traumas early on, they help set the stage for a healthier adulthood free from the chronic pain that so many people endure.
Finding Relief and Restoring Balance
For those suffering from chronic headaches and migraines, CFT offers hope. It’s a gentle, non-invasive therapy that works with the body’s natural healing mechanisms to release tension and restore balance. Whether you’re an adult at the end of your rope with conventional treatments or a parent looking to give your child the best start in life, CFT may be the missing piece of the puzzle.
If you’re interested in exploring this therapy further, you can listen to our owner interview Kim and Holly on Novera’s podcast or visit the official website of Craniosacral Fascial Therapy at craniosacralfascialtherapy.com. Here you’ll find more information about CFT, training opportunities, and a directory of trained practitioners who can guide you on your healing journey.
