Craniosacral Therapy
Brief History
While assisting a surgical procedure in 1970, osteopathic physician, Dr. John Upledger first discovered a rhythmic movement while supporting a patient’s spinal cord. This movement would soon come to be known as the “CranioSacral System”. At the time of this observation, not one of his colleagues could explain this discovery.
Dr. Upledger looked to the father of Osteopathy, Dr. William Sutherland, for answers. In the early 1900s, Dr. Sutherland began to explore the possibility that the cranial bones, connected by what are known as sutures, were in fact movable structures. For decades after, and even today, much debate in the medical community remains regarding the physiology of cranial movement. Much research since then has confirmed that not only do cranial bones move, but also the discovery of the craniosacral system, the mechanisms behind the movement. All of this research and work resulted in what is today known as “CranioSacral Therapy”.
Why CranioSacral Therapy?
Because of its remarkable influence on the central nervous system, the lymphatic and endocrine systems, CranioSacral therapy can benefit the body in a variety of ways. CranioSacral therapy may strengthen our immune function, resolve migraine and other head traumas and conditions such as symptoms resulting from concussion or other head injuries, birth traumas to infants, Tinnitus, fatigue syndromes, TMJ, insomnia, anxiety, eye irritations and neuralgias, depression, digestive problems, stress! To name a few.
CranioSacral Therapy may also bolster the overall health of individuals with autism and cerebral palsy, bell’s palsy, terette’s syndrome, vertigo, dyslexia, loss of sense of smell or taste, tic douleroux, as well as other neurological disorders.
There are certain conditions that are contraindicated for CranioSacral Therapy. These conditions would include acute aneurysm, cerebral hemorrhage, or any condition where intracranial pressure may cause instability or bleeding.
How Does CranioSacral Therapy Work?
The CranioSacral Systems maintains homeostasis within the environment where the central nervous system lives and functions. This system is vital to the development and performance of the brain and spinal cord. It consists of membranes and fluid which surround and protect our central nervous system (brain and spinal cord). It extends from the cranium (bones of the skull and face) to the sacrum (at the base of the vertebrae).
The craniosacral pulse is not unlike our heartbeat or pulse. It’s rhythm can be felt anywhere throughout the body. The approach of a skilled CranioSacral therapist is in using a light touch to observe, monitor and release obstructions within this system. Once the source of an obstruction is determined, the therapist may assist the natural movement of the fluid and related tissues to help the body naturally self-correct. At Optimal Health Group, depending upon the nature of the injury or trauma, CranioSacral therapy is often combined with other modalities to help restore the body to homeostasis, or optimal balance and function.