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 CRANIOSACRAL THERAPY

What is it?
DEFINITION AND EXPLANATION OF CRANIOSACRAL THERAPY
Craniosacral Therapy (CST) is a therapeutic, hands-on method of assessing and balancing the “craniosacral system” functioning.  This system consists of the membranes and fluids that encompass and protect the spinal cord and brain. 

By utilizing a light touch with no more pressure than 5 grams, which is approximately the weight of a nickel, practitioners endeavor to remove restrictions and blockages in the craniosacral system.  Massage therapists, naturopaths, chiropractors, osteopaths, occupational therapists, physical therapists, nurses, dentists, and doctors can use CST to improve functioning of the central nervous system. 

What is it used for?
CONDITIONS CRANIOSACRAL THERAPY MAY HELP

- Aging
- Autism
- Birth Trauma
- Central Nervous System Disorders
- Chronic Fatigue
- Chronic Neck and Back Pain
- Colic
- Emotional Difficulties
- Fibromyalgia and other Connective-Tissue Disorders
- Immune Imbalances
- Infantile Disorders
- Learning Disabilities
- Migraine Headaches
- Motor-Coordination Impairments
- Neurovascular or Immune Disorders
- Orthopedic Problems
- Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder
- Post-Surgical Dysfunction
- Scoliosis
- Stress and Tension-Related Problems
- Temporomandibular Joint Syndrome (TMJ)
- Traumatic Brain and Spinal Cord Injuries

Where did it come from?
HISTORY OF CRANIOSACRAL THERAPY
Osteopathic physician Dr. William Sutherland laid the foundations of CST, formerly called “Cranial Osteopathy”.  Beginning in the early 1900s Sutherland spent 20 years exploring the concept that the bones of the skull were structured to allow for movement, a notion contrary to anatomical teachings of his day. His work began a process of discovery that eventually proved cranial sutures are a type of fibrous joint made of strong collagenous fibers found only in the skull.  These sutures permit a tiny amount of movement.

John E. Upledger, D.O. continued Sutherland's work in the mid '70s. Dr. Upledger believed that if the theory of cranial movement were correct, this would help explain the existence of a cranial rhythm he had encountered in surgery. He attempted to empirically demonstrate that cranial bone motion existed.

Dr. Upledger examined this theory while a researcher and professor of biomechanics at Michigan State University.  He led a group of anatomists, biophysicists, and bioengineers in studying the possible existence of cranial bone motion.  Not only did the research results affirm this, but it helped clarify the mechanisms leading to the motion.  Dr. Upledger’s continued study led him to develop Craniosacral Therapy.

What is it based on?
THEORY OF CRANIOSACRAL THERAPY
CST focuses on the craniosacral system, which maintains the environment in which the brain and spinal cord function. These organs are surrounded and protected by membranes and cerebrospinal fluid which is present from the base of the tailbone to the bones of the skull, face, and mouth. This system is so critical in the brain and spinal cord’s development and functioning that any problem or blockage can result in neurological, sensory, and motor problems.

Similar to the pulse of a beating heart, the craniosacral system maintains a rhythm that exists throughout the body. It is extremely subtle, and is detected using a touch generally no heavier than the weight of a nickel.  Practitioners can detect this rhythm at particular body points to determine the origin of a dysfunction or blockage.  They then can stimulate the fluid’s natural movement and associated soft tissue to help the body reset itself.  CST is also known to work well with other complementary treatments to help the body achieve a state of maximal functioning.

Contraindications for CST include any disorders involving severe bleeding such as prior history of acute aneurysm or cerebral hemorrhage. It is recommended that clients with such conditions must consult with their physician prior to receiving a CST session.

How is it done?
WHAT A SESSION OF CRANIOSACRAL THERAPY IS LIKE
Craniosacral Therapy may be used with clients of all ages, including infants. At the initial session, a thorough health history is generally received.   A session usually lasts anywhere from thirty minutes to ninety minutes in a quiet, private setting. It is recommended that clients wear loose, comfortable clothing, which they will keep on during the session. While the client lies on a massage table the practitioner generally stands or sits near the table and relocates during the session to be positioned near the client’s head, torso, or feet.

The therapist lightly palpates all parts of the craniosacral system searching for restrictions that may be causing dysfunction and discomfort in the body, evaluating the rhythm and movement of the cerebrospinal fluid. This process allows the practitioner to attain feedback from the body and determine the best treatment to meet the client’s needs.

Subtle movement of the skull, spinal column, sacrum and tailbone allows any blockages to be freed. The therapist focuses on the soft tissue (muscles and connective tissue) surrounding the bones. Corrections to the craniosacral system are made with light but focused pressure, as little pressure is needed to allow the body to correct itself.  However, each separate point of release occurs on its own timeframe and rate.

Clients may find themselves attaining a state of deep relaxation or may actually fall asleep; during other sessions clients may feel more talkative as they remember distant memories or find themselves experiences emotions.  Some clients may barely feel the practitioner’s assessment and treatment, whereas others notice unusual sensations as they are treated.  Children often respond favorably to CST because it is neither painful nor invasive, and even very young children can be treated.  In fact, children who are not yet able to speak may even place the practitioner’s hands on their painful areas.

All clients react uniquely to their session.  Some may feel quite tired and sleep for several hours, whereas others experience increased energy.  The client may feel an improvement in the ailment immediately, or the process may be more subtle and develop over a few days.  The progress may continue to improve for weeks after the session as the result of CST facilitating the body’s natural healing mechanisms.   The number of treatments may range from one to several sessions during a course of weeks.

Who does it?
CRANIOSACRAL THERAPY PRACTITIONERS
Practitioners of craniosacral therapy are likely to be physical or massage therapists, osteopaths or chiropractors who have specialized training in the craniosacral method. Training includes seminars ranging from one day to one to two weeks, and is offered through several organizations.