Is Cranial Facial Release Safe? What Phoenix Patients Need to Know

Greg Muchnij • September 14, 2025

When you first hear about Cranial Facial Release (CFR), it can sound a little unusual. Balloons in the nose? Adjusting the cranial bones? If you’ve never heard of it before, it might make you wonder: Is Cranial Facial Release safe?


That’s exactly the question many of our Phoenix patients ask before they decide to try it. And it’s a fair one. Your health, comfort, and safety always come first.



As a chiropractor with decades of experience serving patients in Phoenix and Anthem, Arizona, I’ve seen firsthand how Cranial Facial Release can safely transform lives—relieving sinus pain, headaches, breathing issues, and even stubborn chronic conditions. In this article, I’ll explain what CFR is, why it’s considered safe, and what you can expect when you choose our clinic for care.

Call Us

What is Cranial Facial Release (CFR)?

Cranial Facial Release is a specialized chiropractic technique that works by gently inflating small balloons inside the nasal passages. This procedure helps to adjust and mobilize the cranial bones, improving airflow, alignment, and neurological balance.


Many people are surprised to learn just how much cranial bone alignment affects their health. Issues like:


  • Chronic sinus headaches
  • TMJ problems
  • Sleep apnea
  • Difficulty breathing through the nose
  • Migraines and tension headaches
  • Post-concussion issues


… can all be linked to cranial and facial misalignments. CFR can help address these issues by restoring balance and function in ways that medication or surgery often cannot.



At our Phoenix clinic, CFR is never performed as a “standalone fix.” Instead, it’s part of a whole-body approach that looks at your posture, spinal alignment, nervous system, and overall wellness.

Is Cranial Facial Release Safe?

This is the big question, so let’s answer it directly.


When performed by a trained, experienced chiropractor, Cranial Facial Release is safe. At our clinic, we follow careful protocols to ensure your comfort and well-being. The procedure is quick, minimally invasive, and patients are monitored closely throughout.


Some people describe a feeling of pressure during the procedure, similar to diving underwater, but it typically lasts just a few seconds. Most patients report immediate relief in sinus pressure, breathing, and headaches.


Are there side effects?


Mild side effects may include temporary congestion, watery eyes, or a sense of fullness in the head—similar to what you might feel after a deep sinus rinse. These usually pass within a day. Serious complications are extremely rare when CFR is performed by a professional like myself, with years of hands-on experience.



The real story is in the results: patients who’ve struggled with pain, sinus problems, or migraines for months—or even years—often experience dramatic improvements after CFR.

Book Now

What to Expect at Our Phoenix Clinic

If you’re considering CFR, it’s natural to wonder what the process looks like. At My Chiropractor Health & Wellness Center in Phoenix, we take time to walk you through every step:


1. Comprehensive Evaluation


We don’t just jump into treatment. First, we listen to your story, review your health history, and assess your whole body. Tools like the AO Scan give us detailed insight into your body’s balance and function.


2. Gentle, Professional Care


During the CFR procedure, small balloons are carefully inserted into the nasal passages and inflated for just a couple of seconds. The goal is to restore proper cranial motion—not to cause discomfort.


3. Integration with Advanced Therapies


Many patients also benefit from our Theta Chamber Therapy, which helps balance brainwave activity, reduce stress, and enhance neurological recovery. By combining CFR with these advanced treatments, we create a safer, more effective healing experience.


4. Follow-Up and Support


After treatment, we provide ongoing chiropractic adjustments, guidance, and support to ensure long-term results.

At every step, our focus is on safety, comfort, and whole-body healing.

Why Patients in Phoenix Trust Dr. Greg

When choosing someone to perform a procedure like CFR, experience matters.


I’m Dr. Greg Muchnij, and I’ve dedicated decades of my career to helping patients in Phoenix and Anthem find relief from pain and restore their health. My background includes advanced training in chiropractic care, whole-body alignment, and integrative therapies.


What sets our clinic apart?


  • Decades of hands-on experience in chiropractic and wellness care
  • A whole-body approach — we look for the root cause, not just the symptoms
  • Use of advanced technologies like the Theta Chamber and AO Scan
  • A caring, family-like environment where every patient is treated with compassion


When you come to us for Cranial Facial Release, you’re not just getting a quick procedure. You’re getting a comprehensive healing plan designed around your body, your health, and your goals.

Real Patient Stories: Safe, Life-Changing Results

Still wondering, Is Cranial Facial Release safe? Let’s hear from patients who’ve experienced it firsthand:


Kathy L. shared:


“Dr Greg and his team are world class. I went in for the Cranial Fascial Release (balloons in the nose). I have since referred anyone and everyone I know. I recommend the CFR, the Theta Chamber (5 stars), the foot detox, the scans. Do it all, and just see what your life could feel like in a renewed state. Thank you Dr Greg & Patricia, I am eternally grateful.”


Ananda J. found relief after months of sinus headaches:


“For 5 months I suffered constant sinus headaches. Medications didn’t help. I came to Dr. Greg and within 2 weeks my sinuses opened and started to drain—for the first time in months. His approach of aligning the entire body was what I needed. I am able to live my life again.”


Lauren C. discovered the Theta Chamber:


“Dr Greg and his office are amazing! I did the Theta Chamber for the first time and I feel like a brand new person! I cannot wait for my next visit. I highly recommend everyone try it.”


These stories highlight what we see every day: safe, effective results that change lives.

Read More Reviews

FAQs About the Safety of Cranial Facial Release

  • Does CFR hurt?

    Most patients describe it as unusual but not painful. It lasts only a few seconds, and relief often follows quickly.

  • Are there risks or side effects?

    Minor congestion or watery eyes may occur, but serious complications are very rare when CFR is performed by a trained chiropractor.

  • Who should consider CFR?

    Anyone dealing with chronic sinus issues, headaches, TMJ, post-concussion problems, or breathing difficulties may benefit.

  • How many sessions are needed?

    This depends on your condition. Some patients notice relief after just one session, while others may need a series of treatments for lasting results.

Take the Next Step Toward Relief

If you’ve been wondering, Is Cranial Facial Release safe? the answer is yes—when performed by an experienced chiropractor who puts your safety and healing first.


At My Chiropractor Health & Wellness Center in Phoenix, we’re here to help you breathe easier, relieve pain, and restore balance in your life.


📞 Call our Phoenix office today at (602) 866-3505 to schedule your consultation.


Or, book your appointment online.


Don’t keep suffering with sinus pain, headaches, or breathing issues. Safe, effective relief is possible—and it may be just one appointment away.

Contact Us

Learning Center

Person receiving medical treatment on their elbow using a handheld device. Blue and white device in use.
By Greg Muchnij September 18, 2025
Discover lasting pain relief with StemWave Therapy in Phoenix & Anthem, AZ. Non-invasive shockwave therapy for joint, muscle & sports injuries. Call today!
Human nervous system diagram, highlighted in orange and purple against a dark background.
By Greg Muchnij September 16, 2025
Discover the science behind Theta Chamber therapy. Learn how it helps with anxiety, insomnia, and depression at our Phoenix & Anthem clinics. Call today!
A doctor using a device on a woman's lower back. The woman is lying on a table wearing blue workout clothes.
By Greg Muchnij September 11, 2025
Find out if shockwave therapy really works for chronic pain relief. Learn the science, benefits, success rates, and whether it’s right for you in Phoenix, AZ.
White spa capsule with blue interior lighting in front of a patterned wall.
By Greg Muchnij September 9, 2025
Discover how Theta Chamber Therapy in Phoenix, AZ can help with stress, anxiety, depression, and more. Learn how it works, its benefits, and what to expect.
A person's shoulder being treated with a white medical device by another person in a clinic setting.
By Greg Muchnij September 9, 2025
Curious about shockwave therapy in Phoenix? Learn what to expect on your first visit—safe, non-invasive, drug-free pain relief at MyChiropractor AZ.
Infographic: testing child's shoes. Purple: stiff heel, green check/red x. Orange: toe flexibility. Green: rigid middle.
By Kendell Webb June 28, 2021
Back To School Tips For A Healthy Spine School is almost here and students will soon be busy with sports, homework and classroom activities. It also marks a time when parents need to ensure their kids practice proper habits to to keep a healthy spine. Here are a few simple tips parents can follow:
Word cloud emphasizing exercise, fitness, and health. Colorful words like
By Kendell Webb June 28, 2021
During Phase 2 of the TLS 21-Day Challenge, the intensity of exercise and activity is increased to target stubborn fat and promote weight loss. But did you know that exercise can increase the frequency of positive events and social interactions as well? According to a recent study in the Journal of Personality and Individual Differences, “increasing physical exercise and the occurrence of positive events is central to well-being promotion… behavioral activation theory suggests the occurrence of one positive event increases the likelihood of engaging in subsequent positive events.”
Woman with toned body, TLS 21-Day Challenge Kit ad: Tone, Tighten & Trim. Blue and white product boxes.
By Kendell Webb June 28, 2021
Are you ready to accelerate your weight loss efforts and star shedding those unwanted pounds? Day 8 kicks off Phase 2 of the TLS 21 Day Challenge, a more intensive 2-week phase designed to target stubborn fat. You will switch gears from gentle stretching to more vigorous workouts and make some modifications to daily serving sizes.