Craniosacral Therapy

Cranial Sacral Therapy (CST) is a gentle, hands-on method of evaluating and enhancing the Craniosacral System, the environment in which the brain and spinal cord function. Imbalance or dysfunction in the craniosacral system can cause sensory, motor or neurological disabilities. These problems may include chronic pain, scoliosis, motor coordination impairments and learning disabilities, as well as other physical and psychological problems.

Based on the osteopathic theories of William Sutherland, DO, in the early 1900’s, CST has developed through research by Dr. John Upledger and others over the past several decades.

Similar to the cardiovascular system, the cranialsacral system has its own unique rhythm that can be felt throughout the body. This rhythm moves freely in optimal health, however injuries and disease, muscular strain, and stress can disrupt it both locally and throughout the body via the connective tissue. Using a touch generally no heavier than about 5 grams, (about the weight of a nickel) skilled practitioners monitor this rhythm at key body points to locate the source of an obstruction or stress. Once a source has been determined, they can assist the natural movement of the fluid and related soft tissue to help the body self-correct. This simple action is often all it takes to remove a restriction. Other times, Craniosacral Therapy may be combined with other complementary therapies such as Hellerwork to help restore your body to its optimum functioning state.

Because of its influence on the functioning of the central nervous system, Cranial Sacral Therapy can benefit the body in a number of ways — from improving overall health and resistance to disease to alleviating a wide range of specific medical conditions.

Among Cranial Sacral Therapy's largest patient groups are those suffering chronic symptoms that haven't been aided by other approaches. In particular, Cranial Sacral Therapy is beneficial to those with head, neck or back injuries, or stress-related dysfunctions. Insomnia, fatigue, headaches including migraines, poor digestion, anxiety, fibromyalgia and temporomandibular joint (TMJ) dysfunction are just a few examples. Cranial Sacral Therapy works to reverse the debilitating effects of stress by providing the conditions in which the nervous system can rest and rejuvenate. This capacity to reduce stress is leading an increasing number of people to include CST as part of their wellness routines.

There are certain situations where application of Cranial Sacral Therapy would not be recommended. These include conditions where a variation and/or slight increase in intracranial pressure would cause instability. Acute aneurysm, cerebral hemorrhage or other pre-existing severe bleeding disorders are examples of conditions that could be affected by small intracranial pressure changes.

Because both CST and Hellerwork engage the connective tissue, they are very complementary practices. Working with the cranial sacral system induces a receptive state in which release of connective tissue can occur quite readily. Once these “fascial meridians” are opened up, the structural work of Hellerwork often progresses more easily.

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