CranioSacral Therapy
What is CranioSacral Therapy?
The craniosacral system is one of the body's physiological systems, along with the nervous system, the respiratory system and the digestive system to name a few. It is a semi-closed hydraulic system contained within a tough waterproof membrane which envelops the brain and spinal cord. An important function of this system is the production, circulation and reabsorption of cerebrospinal fluid (CSF). CSF maintains the physiological environment in which your brain and nervous system develop, live and function.
The constant movement of CSF creates a core rhythm or motion within the craniosacral system which is then translated throughout the entire body. Wherever there are held restrictions there will be a lack of this motion. By evaluating the body in this way, I am better able to determine and treat the cause of problems rather than chasing symptoms.
The human body has a powerful ability to heal itself, directed by the central nervous system (CNS) in the brain and spinal cord. A craniosacral therapist uses pressure as light as 5g (the weight of a nickel) to open up space around the CNS to increase fluid flow, allowing it to function more freely. It might seem hard to believe that this light pressure could be so effective, but if you really think about it, the structures around the brain and spinal cord are designed for maximum protection. If they sense that a great force is being used "against" them, these structures will become rock solid, preventing any kind of manipulation. By being as unobtrusive as possible, a craniosacral therapist can have a profound effect on the CNS without raising its defenses. In this case, a little really does go a long way.
CranioSacral Therapy has been successfully used to treat headaches, migraines, neck and back pain, TMJ dysfunction, chronic fatigue, motor coordination difficulties, eye problems and CNS disorders. Many people find that they benefit from regular treatments even if they aren't experiencing specific problems. An efficient craniosacral system keeps your stress levels low and your entire body balanced and functioning at its peak.
A Brief History
Initial investigation into craniosacral therapy was begun in the early 20th century by William G. Sutherland, DO. Initially, attention was given only to the cranial bones and their movement at the cranial sutures, the joints between the cranial bones. Theraputic techniques were designed to correct abnormal cranial bone movement.
In the mid-1970's, a team of researchers led by Dr. John Upledger, DO, OMM proved one of the central tenets of craniosacral therapy, that cranial bones move. While Italian anatomists have taught this fact for the last century, American and British experts have typically held to the belief that cranial sutures calcify completely by the late teenage years. This latter belief does appear to be correct when chemically preserved specimens are studied. However, when fresh unenbalmed cranial bones were examined, the sutures were found to contain blood vessels, nerve fibers, collagen and elastic fibers. There was little evidence of sutural ossification which would prevent movement of cranial bones in relation to each other.
With his research providing a basis, Dr. Upledger developed a therapy to evaluate and treat the membrane surrounding the CNS, which he discovered played a key role in cranial bone movement. While his research is constantly developing new ideas and approaches, the core of Dr. Upledger's therapy remains tried and true and continues to gain a larger following among patients and therapists around the world.
Suggested Reading
CranioSacral Therapy: Touchstone for Natural Healing by Dr. John E. Upledger gives a good description of CST in a non-technical manner. Mostly through anecdotes, Dr. Upledger describes the treatment, its development and its uses.
An Introduction to Craniosacral Therapy by Don Cohen goes into deeper detail from an anatomical and technical viewpoint, but is still written in an easy to read manner.
Your Treatment
Your craniosacral treatment typically takes place with you lying on your back on a comfortable padded table. You remain fully clothed throughout the session.
Using a very light touch, I'll begin by "listening" to the rhythm of your craniosacral system at various locations on your body. With the information I receive, I get a better idea of where I need to focus the treatment.
The treatment portion of your session will vary according to your specific needs. Generally speaking, a craniosacral treatment involves very gentle touch at various positions on your body including your head, neck and sacrum.
It would not be uncommon for your treatment not to be focused on the part of your body where you are experiencing symptoms. Because of the fascia that runs three-dimensionally throughout your body, any part of your body can be affected by any other part. For instance, headaches are often caused by problems in your pelvis and sacrum region. Craniosacral therapy can identify these connections and treat them.
As with any massage therapy treatment, you have the right at any time to ask your therapist to stop or to change what he or she is doing if you feel uncomfortable in any way. However, most people find craniosacral therapy to be an extremely relaxing experience that does not cause discomfort.
Please call or email me if you have any further questions or are interested in receiving a craniosacral treatment.