Cranial Facial Release
Cranial Facial Release (CFR) is a non surgical endo-nasal “balloon-assisted” cranial adjusting technique that has been used very successfully in the management of various neurological and structural disorders – often as a last resort treatment for difficult conditions after conventional forms of treatment have failed.
The primary objective of CFR is to induce mobility in the cranial system, specifically the sphenoid bone, with the purpose of facilitating normal cerebral spinal fluid flow and open up the breathing passages.
The technique is performed by inserting tiny balloons in the nose (specifically the naso-pharynx) then quickly inflating to mobilize the bones deep inside of the skull.
The intention of CFR is to increase oxygen capacity to the brain facilitating the proper flow of cerebrospinal fluid – an intricate component of normal brain function. The skull is made up of 22 individual bones that actually move every time you breathe – or at least they are supposed to. Every time you inhale, the cranium expands. Every time you exhale the cranium relaxes and contracts with the purpose of pumping cerebrospinal fluid throughout the brain and spinal cord. This is imperative to normal brain function.
Thus, if the individual cranial bones are fixated or “stuck” and do not move like they’re supposed to, it causes torque on the dura (the outer meningeal covering of the brain) and impediment of cerebrospinal fluid to that part of your brain – thus, whatever part of your body that section of your brain controls will be directly affected and compromised by that dysfunction of the nervous system at that level.
The procedure is performed in a series of 3-4 days of treatment, with specific bilateral inflation patterns administered on each individual day. It typically takes 2-3 or 4 series (10-16 individual days of treatment) to achieve maximal benefit from CFR.
​
​
Conditions Benefiting from Cranial Facial Release
Migraine
Headache
Facial Pain
Trigeminal Neuralgia
Bell's Palsy/Facial Paralysis
Post-Concussion Syndrome
Post Stroke
Memory and Focus
Changes to taste or smell
Breathing Disorders
Sleep Apnea
Snoring
Sinusitis
Anxiety
Chronic Fatigue/Brain Fog
Vertigo
Tinnitus
Insomnia/Sleep Disorders
Eustachian Tube Disorders
What you should know
Call or click the Online Scheduling button to schedule your first visit.
​Make sure to fill out your online intake forms promptly- This is how you confirm your visit, we may need to reschedule your visit if your forms are not completed 48 hours prior to your visit.
​
At your first visit you can expect an exam?.
The first session takes about an hour this includes a cranial and spinal exam (remember fluid moves from our skull down our spine) and any needed imaging to ensure you qualify for CFR. At your first visit you will discuss your treatment plan and how many recommended visits are needed based your symptoms. To receive your first CFR treatment you must have your series of visits planned and scheduled. Series are 3-4 visits over 7-10 days and series packages range from $675-$2400.
If you are already in treatment ask about CFR Add On discounts.
​
How Do I know I qualify for CFR?
​This is why your first visit is so important for us to collect all the necessary information to ensure your safety. This technique is not for everyone. There are some contraindications including hemophilia, individuals on prescription blood thinners, aneurisms, recent nasal fracture, severe cranial osteoporosis, choanal atresia (congenital narrowing of the back of the nasal cavity), and emotionally unstable individuals. If you are not a candidate for CFR our office is able to provide cranial chiropractic and craniosacral care along with physical and myofunctional therapy.
​
Is CFR safe and is it covered by insurance?
​CFR is considered safe when performed by a CFR certified, licensed chiropractic physician. It is a non-surgical technique with minimal risks, which makes it an alternative to more invasive procedures. CFR is an alternative form of holistic therapy and not considered medically necessary by conventional medicine, it is not covered by any medical insurance plan.
​
Does CFR hurt?
It is a very fast procedure and feels similar to the sensation of jumping into a swimming pool and having water shoot up your nose – it isn’t exactly painful, but not the most comfortable sensation either – but it’s quick, only 2-3 seconds!
​
Do I really need multiple series?
Depending on your level of restriction and extent of symptoms multiple series may be needed to reach your goals. All cranial releases use minimal force and often take several sessions to establish proper cranial motion. We encourage patients to complete all the recommended series, additional discount packages are available when you purchase your initial series and to Military Veterans.
​
​