Application of craniosacral therapy in practice

Abstract

Systematic evaluation of the evidence for the use of craniosacral therapy (CST) in practice. The following English-only electronic databases were searched: PubMed, Scopus, PEDro, Cochrane Library. The review of journal databases was conducted between March and June 2023. The databases were searched using MeSH (Medical Subject Headings) terms, keywords and logical operators. The results from the statistical analyses performed were taken into account. Only twenty-five studies met the inclusion criteria. Positive clinical results were reported for reduction of pain, reduction of crying in children, reduction of stress hormones, and improvement of patients’ general well-being. The methodological quality of the PEDro scale ranged from 1 to 11 points. The review indicates a significant effect on patient outcomes/symptoms. There is a need for multi-center studies with common CST methodology in groups with large numbers. Trial registration: PROSPERA registration number: CRD42023430923