What is Craniosacral Therapy?

Within our bodies an important rhythm flows created by the increase and decrease in the cerebrospinal fluid flow protectively surrounding our craniosacral system. This system contains the brain, spinal cord, cerebrospinal fluid, membranes, and the spine and skull bones that hold the membranes. It is believed that any disruption in this flow has a domino affect upon the body's other vital rhythms, such as the cardiac or respiratory rhythm.

According to Northwestern Health Sciences University craniosacral therapy (also referred to as CST) is defined as gentle manipulation of the brain, spinal cord, bones of the skull, sacrum and interconnected membranes--to correct misalignments and distortions in the structure and function of the craniosacral mechanism that surrounds the central nervous system. From 1975 to 1983, a physician and Professor of Biomechanics by the name of John E. Upledger conducted scientific studies at the University of Michigan, resulting in the development of Craniosacral Therapy. It is considered to be a method of alternative medicine.

Craniosacral therapy involves hands-on evaluation and examination of the craniosacral system. This action releases restrictions which allow improved functioning. Working along with the body's own healing abilities, CST can help increase the body's resistance to particular diseases. CST has also been documented as effective treatment against a host of diseases, some of which include: orthopedic and stress related problems, disorders including post-traumatic stress, fibromyalgia, TMJ, infantile, some connective tissue, neurovascular and immune, injuries of the brain and spinal cord, migraine headaches, emotional difficulties, neck and back pain, autism, scoliosis, and certain learning disabilities.

By closely examining the rhythmic flow of the craniosacral fluid, which is the fluid that surrounds the brain and spinal cord, a trained therapist can determine any restrictions of the flow. These restrictions are believed to be the root for diseases of the central nervous system such as those listed above, as well as overall poor health.

Craniosacral therapy is considered to be holistic in that it approaches the entire body, physically, emotionally and mentally, in a non-intrusive evaluation and treatment of illnesses. There are three different methods of CST. They are all similar in nature; however, the approach of each differs slightly.

Sutural Approach

Manipulation is aimed at the skull's sutures to increase mobility and relieve pressure of the cranial bones.

Meningeal Approach

By utilizing hands-on contact to the bones of the craniosacral system, the practitioner alleviates restrictions to the cranial sutures.

Reflex Approach

Stress is relieved in the craniosacral system, as well as other structures and organs throughout the body through the stimulation of nerve endings of the scalp.

Craniosacral therapy is gaining momentum among practitioners in the private and public sector. Attention is given to those diseases, symptoms and disorders that have claimed to have had positive response to craniosacral therapy such as acute and chronic joint pain, neck and low back pain, muscle tension, edema, spinal cord injuries, headaches, epilepsy and autism, stress, tinnitus and ear infections, vomiting, asthma, emphysema and a weakened immune system just to name a few.