Breathe Clearly. Think Sharply. Feel Like Yourself Again.
The Nasal Release Technique (NRT) is a gentle, non-surgical cranial therapy that restores alignment to the bones of the skull and nasal passages — relieving chronic sinus pressure, headaches, post-concussion symptoms, and sleep disruption at the structural root.
What Is the Nasal Release Technique?
The Nasal Release Technique (NRT) — also called Cranial Facial Release or Nasal Specific Technique — is a specialized structural therapy developed to restore proper alignment and mobility to the bones of the skull. Your skull is not a single solid bone; it is composed of 22 bones connected by joints called sutures. These sutures can become compressed or restricted due to head trauma, concussion, chronic tension, or even birth stress.
When cranial sutures are restricted, the effects ripple outward: sinus drainage is impaired, airway resistance increases, cerebrospinal fluid flow is disrupted, and the nervous system operates under chronic low-grade stress. NRT addresses this at the structural level — not with medication, not with surgery, but with a precise, targeted release that takes approximately three seconds per nasal passage.
The procedure uses a small inflatable medical device inserted into the nasal passage. When briefly inflated, it presses gently outward against the bones lining the breathing passages — unlocking restrictions in the cranial sutures, particularly the sphenoid bone, which sits at the center of the skull and influences the alignment of nearly every other cranial structure.
Structural Suture Adjustment
Concussions and cranial trauma are invisible structural injuries. NRT addresses the cranial bones directly, correcting the misalignments that traditional care often overlooks — restoring the foundation that everything else depends on.
Airway as Pressure Regulator
The nasal airway is not just a breathing passage — it is a pressure regulation system for the entire cranium. When structural blockages are cleared, internal fluidity is restored and the body can regulate itself more effectively.
Neurological Restoration
By restoring proper cranial alignment and cerebrospinal fluid flow, NRT supports the nervous system's ability to communicate clearly between the brain and the body — improving function from the inside out.
Conditions Commonly Treated with NRT
NRT is particularly effective for conditions rooted in cranial bone restriction, airway dysfunction, and nervous system dysregulation.
Post-Concussion Syndrome
Subtle cranial misalignments after a concussion can cause persistent headaches, brain fog, dizziness, and difficulty concentrating. NRT restores cranial bone alignment and cerebrospinal fluid flow to support full recovery.
Chronic Sinus Congestion & Pressure
When the bones lining the nasal passages are compressed or restricted, sinus drainage is impaired. NRT opens the passages structurally — not chemically — giving lasting relief without medication.
Sleep Apnea & Breathing Disorders
Structural narrowing of the airway contributes to snoring, sleep apnea, and poor sleep quality. By expanding the nasal passages and realigning cranial bones, NRT improves airflow at the source.
Migraines & Chronic Headaches
Cranial suture restrictions create pressure that can trigger or worsen migraines. NRT releases this compression, reducing the frequency and intensity of headaches for many patients.
TMJ Dysfunction
The jaw, skull, and upper cervical spine are structurally connected. Misalignments in the cranial bones can contribute to jaw pain, clicking, and TMJ dysfunction. NRT addresses the structural root of these issues.
Vertigo & Balance Issues
Restricted cranial movement can affect the inner ear and vestibular system. By restoring proper alignment and fluid dynamics, NRT can reduce dizziness and improve balance.
What to Expect During Your NRT Session
Each session is personalized, gentle, and typically takes 15–20 minutes. Most patients notice a meaningful difference after just one treatment.
Consultation & History
Dr. Bryan reviews your health history, symptoms, and goals. A brief structural assessment determines whether NRT is appropriate for your situation.
Nasal Passage Preparation
The nasal passages are gently prepared. A small, soft finger cot attached to an inflatable medical device is carefully placed into one nasal passage at a time.
The Release — 3 Seconds
The device is briefly inflated, applying gentle outward pressure against the bones lining the nasal passages. This targeted pressure unlocks restrictions in the cranial sutures — particularly the sphenoid bone. Most patients describe it as a brief 'pressure pop.'
Immediate Response
Most patients notice an immediate sense of openness and clarity. It is common to hear or feel mild clicks as the cranial bones shift into better alignment. The entire procedure takes 15–20 minutes.
Is NRT Right for You?
What Most Patients Experience
NRT is typically pain-free. Patients feel a brief sensation of deep pressure lasting 2–3 seconds. It is common to hear or feel mild clicks as the cranial bones shift. Most patients report an immediate sense of openness and clarity in the nasal passages.
Possible Side Effects
Temporary nasal drainage, mild soreness in the nasal passages, or brief post-treatment headaches are possible as the body adjusts. These typically resolve within 24 hours and are a sign that the body is responding.
Contraindications
NRT is not appropriate for patients with active bleeding disorders or a history of severe facial bone surgery. A comprehensive health history is always reviewed before treatment begins.
What Patients Often Report After NRT
- Clearer nasal breathing — often immediately
- Reduced head pressure and sinus congestion
- Fewer headaches and migraines
- Improved sleep quality
- Sharper mental focus and clarity
- Reduced jaw tension and TMJ discomfort
- Better balance and reduced dizziness
- Calmer nervous system — less stress reactivity
Frequently Asked Questions About NRT
Is Nasal Release Technique painful?
How many sessions will I need?
Is NRT safe?
What are the possible side effects?
Can children receive NRT?
How does NRT differ from a regular chiropractic adjustment?
NRT as Part of a Neurologically-Focused Care Plan
At Revival Family Chiropractic, NRT is offered as a complement to our neurologically-focused chiropractic care. The spine and the cranium are part of the same structural system — the central nervous system runs through both. When we address spinal alignment through chiropractic adjustments and cranial alignment through NRT, we are working on the entire communication highway between the brain and the body.
Many patients who come in for chronic headaches, post-concussion symptoms, or TMJ dysfunction benefit from a combined approach. Dr. Bryan uses the INSiGHT Neurological Scanning System to assess nervous system function objectively — giving us a clear picture of where the interference is and how the body is responding to care over time.
If you have been dealing with symptoms that haven't responded to standard treatment, NRT may be the missing piece. We invite you to schedule a consultation with Dr. Bryan to discuss whether this approach is right for you.
Ready to Breathe Easier and Feel Better?
Dr. Bryan Pries offers Nasal Release Technique at Revival Family Chiropractic in Charlotte's Oakhurst neighborhood. Same-week appointments are often available.