A few babies have it all: a latching issue, colic, reflux, gas, constipation, hiccups, and oral ties.
When this four-week-old presented with all of the above, I nicknamed him “Mr. Tight.” As expected, he had a zero-second brain cycle and a tight fascial web.
He was born at home with the help of a midwife and presented with purple discoloration all over his body. One might have suspected cyanosis, but his O2 levels were normal.
In addition, that day the midwife needed to return to the house twice because of continued skin discoloration. Each time she said his oxygen levels were fine. What could possibly be the root of the problem?
The interesting aspect about pioneering this work is that I have to think out of the box and take a chance that my hypothesis is wrong. My goal is to look at the known science and then create a theory that explains the clinical presentation.
We know that the fascial web connects every cell of the circulatory system. My theory is that the web was so tight that it impeded the critical transition of the circulatory system from fetal to independent life.
As soon as a baby takes his or her first breath, a series of complex reactions occurs between the circulatory and respiratory systems to sustain life. Because of the fascial tightness, this switch still happens, but the body may need to labor more to create homeostasis.
When adding fascial pressure on the craniosacral (cerebrospinal fluid) and lymphatic (lymph) systems, all of the fluids in the body may be struggling to flow well. This hypothesis makes sense to me.
At his first visit, fascial strain in his pelvis and diaphragm released, and his brain cycle opened to a respectable 60 seconds. The parents wanted to hold off on any oral tie surgery to see how he responded to this therapy.
At the second visit, his body was freeing up well except for his shoulders. He literally had two frozen shoulders where the associated fascia was stuck. As his body loosens over future visits, I expect him to do well.
Mom Speaks
“I noticed instant relief, even after only one session of therapy. His breastfeeding was significantly better, and he had regular bowel movements for the rest of that week—constipation gone.
We are two appointments in, and he already acts like a different baby. He is more peaceful and enjoys nursing. I would highly recommend this therapy for any fussy baby!”
Sign up for Gillespie Approach Training Opportunities
Foundation Trainings
Gillespie Approach Foundation Training is designed for students to work with children and adults.
2026 Dates:
- January 22–24 | Melbourne, FL
- March 19–21 | Greenville, SC
- May 14–16 | Westfield, IN
- June 25–27 | Bozeman, MT
- August 6–8 | Boise, ID
- October 1–3 | Olathe, KS
- November 9–11 | Newtown Square, PA
- November 12–14 | Newtown Square, PA
Infant Trainings
Gillespie Approach Infant Training is designed for students to work with infants.
2026 Dates:
- January 25–27 | Melbourne, FL
- March 22–24 | Greenville, SC
- May 17–19 | Westfield, IN
- June 28–30 | Bozeman, MT
- August 9–11 | Boise, ID
- October 4–6 | Olathe, KS
- November 15–17 | Newtown Square, PA
New to Gillespie Approach–Craniosacral Fascial Therapy?
Read a collection of articles handpicked by Dr. Barry Gillespie to help you grasp core information and understand training and treatment options.
Make a Gillespie Approach Appointment to Get the Help You Need
Talk About the Gillespie Approach With Our Community on the Gillespie Approach Forum
Catch Every Story! Get a Free E-book and Infographic With Your Email Newsletter Subscription
Explore Gillespie Approach–Craniosacral Fascial Therapy Articles Based on Hundreds of Health Conditions and Anatomical Regions
Enjoy Many Powerful Testimonials for Babies, Children and Adults
From fussy babies experiencing breakthroughs and children excelling in school to adults emerging triumphant over mystery health conditions, get inspired by these heartwarming and soul-stirring testimonials.
