Breastfeeding is a remarkable process that goes far beyond providing nutrients. It is a complex physical, hormonal, biochemical, and psychological interaction. Not only does a mother nourish her baby, but she also creates a deep bond during the feeding process. Breastfeeding offers numerous benefits for the baby and the mother, making it an ideal choice for infant nutrition.

The Benefits of Breastfeeding

According to the WHO, the ideal nourishment for newborns and infants is breastmilk; it offers all the essential nutrients required for appropriate growth and maturation. It also transfers antibodies from the mother to the baby, strengthening the baby’s system. Babies who are breastfed are less likely to face specific health issues later in life, such as obesity and type II diabetes. Breastfeeding also provides essential advantages for the mother, such as lowering the chances of developing breast and ovarian cancers, type II diabetes, and postpartum depression.

Common Breastfeeding Challenges

Although breastfeeding is a natural process, many mothers experience difficulties. Some common breastfeeding challenges include painful feeding, issues with latching, babies who pop on and off the breast, reflux, increased gas, swallowing problems, and colic. These challenges can be even more pronounced in babies with tethered oral tissues, such as lip and tongue ties. Babies with these issues may also show signs of physical strain, tension, anatomical misalignment, and restricted range of motion, particularly in the neck.

What is CranioSacral Therapy?

Craniosacral therapy (CST) involves a gentle, hands-on approach to releasing restrictions and tension in the body. It takes a holistic approach to improving mobility and function, which can be especially helpful for babies facing breastfeeding challenges. CST aims to address the root causes of issues, such as tension and misalignment in the baby, that may be contributing to breastfeeding difficulties.

How CranioSacral Therapy Helps with Breastfeeding

Babies with breastfeeding difficulties, particularly those with tethered oral tissues, often have restrictions elsewhere in their bodies. CST can help by addressing areas of tension, such as the occipital cranial base (where the head meets the neck), tightness in the neck (often seen as torticollis or favoring one side), and other structural issues like a recessed chin, asymmetrical face, or flat spots on the head (plagiocephaly). These issues can affect the baby’s ability to latch, breathe, and feed properly.

CST works by gently releasing fascial restrictions, improving muscle length, and encouraging proper anatomical alignment. This leads to improved mobility in the baby, which is essential for effective latch and milk transfer. Many mothers report that their babies become calmer, more relaxed, and better able to feed after CST sessions, strengthening their breastfeeding relationship.

Tethered Oral Tissues and Revisions

The frenulum, which is the tissue connecting the upper lip and tongue, maybe too tight, causing significant challenges with breastfeeding. When this occurs, a pediatric dentist may recommend a revision, which involves releasing the lip or tongue ties with a laser or surgical tool. Craniosacral therapy plays a critical role both before and after this procedure.

Pre-revision, CST helps prepare the baby’s baby by releasing tension patterns and improving alignment. This enhances the likelihood of a successful revision by ensuring that the baby’s baby’s fascia is more relaxed. Post-revision, CST continues to support healing by addressing any lingering restrictions, improving structural alignment, and enhancing the baby’s ability to latch and transfer milk more effectively.

Post-procedure recovery with CST

After the revision of the lip and tongue ties, CST can help with pain management, reduce tension, and support the baby’s baby during the procedure. It also aids in calming the baby’s nervous system, promoting overall well-being. Many parents find that CST helps restore a comfortable and enjoyable breastfeeding relationship, improving the bond between mother and baby.

Benefits of CST for Bottle-Fed Babies

Craniosacral therapy is not just for breastfed babies. Bottle-fed babies, whether receiving breast milk or formula, can also benefit from CST. Some bottle-fed babies experience similar challenges to their breastfed counterparts, such as increased gas, colic, reflux, and difficulty with sucking or latching. These issues can be due to restrictions in the baby’s baby’s structures, including lip and tongue ties. CST can address these problems by improving oral mobility and relieving tension, leading to more successful bottle-feeding experiences.

Long-Term Effects of Tethered Oral Tissues

If left untreated, tethered oral tissues can have long-lasting effects beyond infancy. Children and adults with untreated lip and tongue ties may develop issues such as open mouth posture during sleep, jaw retraction, breathing difficulties, and even sleep apnea. Other potential complications include speech difficulties, problems with food manipulation, migraines, and neck pain. There is also evidence that tethered oral tissues may be linked to allergies and behavioral concerns, such as ADD or ADHD.

Craniosacral therapy offers a gentle, effective solution for addressing breastfeeding challenges and tethered oral tissues. Whether your baby is breastfed or bottle-fed, CST can help improve oral mobility, release tension patterns, and promote overall well-being. Incorporating CST into your baby’s baby’s routine can enhance their feeding experience, reduce discomfort, and foster a deeper connection with your child.