Does anyone know if craniosacral therapy would be beneficial for a
back pain sufferer? I'm trying to put 2-and-2 together and manage my
back pain, but also find a way to manage the stress that is probably
the root cause of my back pain.

I know from x-rays that I have narrowing of my L5-S1 disc space as
well as some early degenerative arthritis. I was seeing a chiropractor
for a little while, but she would note that she could easily adjust my
spine which meant that it probably easily came back out of alignment.
I've had back issues for many years, but this chronic pain, which is
at its worst when I'm lying in bed(!) so that I can barely turn from
side to side, has only been a problem for the past year or so. It
started out as spasms, and now is simply constant, but worse at night
when lying down.

I may have discovered the source ... although it may also be an
unrelated malady. My dentist diagnosed me as having a dental
abfraction problem, where the gums recede and stressor mark appear on
the teeth. This is also a problem I've had for many years and my
former dentist would constantly chide me for brushing too hard and
threaten me with gum grafts ... I used to have sensitive gums, but
that sensitivity went away as my gums further recessed. Abfraction is
caused by either grinding of teeth, misaligned bite or the thrusting
of the tongue against the teeth. That lateral force can be powerful
enough to make the gums recede. My new dentist things the abfraction
is causing my back pain and is trying to fix my bite with a dental
applicance (orthotic) but it isn't helping. My personal feeling is
that it's due to stress (constant in my life with work and a child
with special health needs) and I have become conscious of my tongue
thrusting.

I'm seeking alternative therapy to manage the pain but also manage the
stress and perhaps break the cycle. I wonder, and would appreciate
anyone's feedback, if craniosacral therapy might help ... I'm thinking
of the connection the spine and jaw may have as well.

I look forward to your feedback.

Leslie