Janelle Maxwell LMT, Diplomate Certified CranioSacral Therapist

Navigating life with a newborn is a big change! From learning their cues and cries, to adjusting to new sleep patterns, to navigating nursing. It’s a whole new world! Sometimes things don’t go as smoothly as you thought they would. Are you struggling with nursing? Did your lactation consultant mention the possibility of a tongue tie? Tongue tie, or ankyloglossia, is a condition in which the frenulum—the band of tissue connecting the underside of the tongue to the floor of the mouth—is unusually short or tight. This restriction can affect a person’s ability to move their tongue freely leading to difficulties with breastfeeding, speech, and oral hygiene. While traditional treatments often involve frenotomy (a minor surgical procedure) or speech therapy, some individuals are exploring complementary therapies to support overall oral function and well-being. CranioSacral Therapy (CST) is one such approach that offers valuable support for those dealing with tongue tie. Let’s explore how CST helps in addressing tongue tie.

What is CranioSacral Therapy?

CranioSacral Therapy is a gentle, non-invasive bodywork technique developed by Dr. John Upledger in the 1970s. It focuses on the CranioSacral system, which includes the membranes and cerebrospinal fluid surrounding the brain and spinal cord. CST enhances the flow of cerebrospinal fluid and releases restrictions within this system which promotes overall health and balance. The therapy involves light touch and subtle manipulation, often resulting in deep relaxation and improved well-being.

How CST Can Support Tongue Tie

1. Enhancing Oral Function: CST helps address restrictions in the CranioSacral system that affect oral function. By promoting relaxation and releasing tension in the mouth and jaw area, CST supports better tongue mobility and function, complementing other treatments for tongue tie.
2. Improving Jaw and Tongue Coordination: Proper function of the jaw and tongue is essential for activities like speaking and eating. CST helps improve coordination between these structures by addressing any restrictions or misalignments in the CranioSacral system, which supports better oral function.
3. Reducing Tension in the Oral and Jaw Muscles: Tongue tie often leads to compensatory tension in the oral and jaw muscles. CST helps release this tension, which alleviates discomfort and improves overall oral function, making it easier to perform tasks like breastfeeding or speaking.
4. Supporting Post-Frenotomy Recovery: For individuals who have undergone a frenotomy, CST supports the recovery process by addressing any residual tension or restrictions in the mouth and jaw area. This enhances healing and promotes optimal function after the procedure.
5. Addressing Associated Discomfort: Tongue tie can sometimes cause associated discomfort, such as pain or difficulty in feeding. CST’s gentle approach helps alleviate these symptoms by promoting relaxation and improving overall comfort.
6. Promoting Overall Relaxation: Stress and tension can exacerbate symptoms associated with tongue tie. CST promotes deep relaxation and stress reduction, which creates a more favorable environment for healing and improving oral function.

What to Expect During a CST Session for Tongue Tie

A CranioSacral Therapy session is gentle and soothing. Here’s what you can generally expect:

• Environment: The therapy is conducted in a calm, comfortable setting to create a relaxing atmosphere conducive to healing.
• Techniques: Janelle uses light touch and subtle pressure to assess and address areas of restriction within the CranioSacral system and surrounding tissues. Techniques are tailored to the individual’s specific needs and comfort level.
• Duration: Sessions typically last 60 minutes, depending on the individual’s needs and tolerance.
• Experience: Most individuals find CST to be a deeply relaxing experience. Some notice immediate improvements in oral function and comfort, while others experience gradual benefits over several sessions.

Integrating CST into Your Oral Health Plan

CranioSacral Therapy is a valuable complement to traditional treatments for tongue tie, such as frenotomy and speech therapy. Integrating CST into your overall care plan can enhance comfort, support oral function, and contribute to a more holistic approach to managing tongue tie.

Safety and Considerations

CranioSacral Therapy is generally considered safe when performed by a qualified therapist, such as Janelle, with experience in working with individuals of all ages with oral and cranial issues. It’s important to choose a practitioner who is trained to address the specific needs of individuals with tongue tie.

Conclusion

CranioSacral Therapy offers a gentle and supportive approach to addressing tongue tie and supporting overall oral function. By enhancing oral mobility, reducing muscle tension, and promoting relaxation, CST complements traditional treatments and contributes to a more balanced and effective approach to managing tongue tie.