There are significant differences between osteopathy in the cranial field (OCF) and craniosacral therapy (CST). Cranial osteopaths are licensed physicians, trained in anatomy, physiology, health, and disease states. OCF is a modality for diagnosis and treatment provided as part of a comprehensive treatment plan.

Cranio-sacral therapy (CST) is a form of light-touch bodywork developed by an osteopath as a tool for massage therapists and other bodyworkers. CST courses are open to anyone—medical background or not—and there are no national standards or regulations. The technique can be practiced with as little as four days’ training.