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Understanding Craniosacral Therapy Part 1: An Overview


A picture of a client receiving a craniosacral therapy

Craniosacral Therapy (CST) is a gentle, hands-on treatment that focuses on assessing and enhancing the functioning of the craniosacral system, which consists of the membranes and cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) that surround and protect the brain and spinal cord. CST is based on the idea that there is a subtle, rhythmic movement within this system that can be palpated and influenced to improve health and well-being. In this blog post, we will delve into the nuances of cranial osteopathy, exploring its principles, techniques, and potential benefits.


The Foundation of Cranial Osteopathy and Evolution into Craniosacral Therapy


In the late 19th century, an osteopathic physician, Dr. William Garner Sutherland, developed a cranial osteopathy based on his belief that the cranial bones were not fused rigidly but instead exhibited subtle, rhythmic movements. These movements, known as the cranial rhythmic impulse (CRI), are thought to be an expression of the inherent vitality and health of an individual. To prove this, Dr. Sutherland wore a specific helmet that he devised to restrict the rhythmic movement of his cranium. His wife recorded various changes in his state of health occurred while wearing the helmet. She also recorded the state of recovery and self-healing as the restriction of the cranium bones was gradually released.


Dr. Sutherland and his early students reported positive outcomes in treating various conditions, particularly those related to the head and nervous system, such as headaches, migraines, sinus issues, and certain neurological problems. These results were largely based on anecdotal evidence and clinical observation, with many patients experiencing relief from symptoms after receiving cranial osteopathic treatment.


Later, during the 1970s, another osteopathic physician, Dr. John Upledger, further developed the clinical implications of Dr. Sutherland's cranial osteopathy through a series of research studies (1975~1983) at Michigan State University. As a result of this research, cranial osteopathy developed into craniosacral therapy.


Dr. Upledger's journey to developing cranial osteopathy into craniosacral therapy (CST) was shaped by both his clinical insights and research into the craniosacral system. While assisting in spinal surgery in 1970, he noticed a subtle and rhythmic movement of the dura mater (the membrane surrounding the brain and spinal cord) that did not correspond with the patient’s breathing or heart rate. This movement intrigued him, as it suggested the presence of another physiological rhythm in the body that was not widely recognized or understood by mainstream medicine at the time. He began investigating this rhythmic movement further while learning about the earlier work of Dr. Sutherland. Sutherland’s concept of the cranial rhythmic impulse (CRI) and the mobility of cranial bones resonated with Upledger’s observations, but Dr. Upledger expanded on this idea with his own research and practical experiences. After a series of research that he conducted with his research team at Michigan State University, Dr. Upledger identified the craniosacral system, which includes the membranes, cerebrospinal fluid, and bones that encase the brain and spinal cord. This system, according to Dr. Upledger, has a palpable rhythmic motion that could be manipulated to relieve tension and promote health.


To promote and teach craniosacral therapy (CST), Dr. Upledger established the Upledger Institute in 1985. The institute became a leading center for education and research in CST, training practitioners around the world and expanding the use of CST to a variety of conditions, including chronic pain, stress-related disorders, and developmental issues. The key concepts of craniosacral therapy includes integrated craniosacral system, craniosacral rhythm, palpation and gentle manipulation, and self-healing and balance. They are described in more detail below.


Key Concepts in Craniosacral Therapy


  1. Craniosacral System:

    • The craniosacral system includes the skull (cranium), the spinal column, the sacrum (the triangular bone at the base of the spine), and the meninges (the membranes that encase the brain and spinal cord). Cerebrospinal fluid circulates within this system, providing nutrients and removing waste from the central nervous system.

  2. Craniosacral Rhythm:

    • The craniosacral system has a natural, rhythmic movement, which is refered to as the craniosacral rhythm. This rhythm is thought to be separate from the heartbeat or breathing and is considered essential to maintaining the body's health.

  3. Palpation and Gentle Manipulation:

    • Practitioners use extremely light touch, often no more than 5 grams of pressure (about the weight of a nickel), to feel for and influence the craniosacral rhythm. They aim to detect restrictions, imbalances, or dysfunctions in the system and apply gentle manipulation to release tension and improve the flow of cerebrospinal fluid.

  4. Self-Healing and Balance:

    • Craniosacral therapy (CST) is grounded in the idea that the body has an inherent ability to heal itself. By optimizing the flow of cerebrospinal fluid and relieving tension in the craniosacral system, CST is believed to enhance the body’s natural self-healing mechanisms.


Benefits of Craniosacral Therapy


Craniosacral therapy is believed to offer a wide range of benefits for both physical and emotional well-being. Some potential benefits include:


  • Pain Relief : By addressing structural imbalances and restrictions, craniosacral therapy may help alleviate pain in various parts of the body, including the head, neck, and back.

  • Stress Reduction : The gentle techniques used in craniosacral therapy can induce a deep sense of relaxation, helping reduce stress and promote overall relaxation.

  • Improved Sleep : By promoting relaxation and balance in the body, craniosacral therapy may contribute to improved sleep quality and patterns.

  • Enhanced Circulation : The gentle manipulations in craniosacral therapy can help facilitate better circulation of cerebrospinal fluid, promoting optimal function of the nervous system.


Conditions Treated by Craniosacral Therapy


Craniosacral therapy is often used to treat a variety of conditions, particularly those involving pain, stress, and nervous system dysfunction. Some common uses include:

 

  • Chronic pain (e.g., headaches, neck, and back pain)

  • Stress-related conditions (e.g., anxiety, fatigue)

  • Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD)

  • Sinus issues or ear infections

  • Temporomandibular joint (TMJ) dysfunction

  • Sleep disorders

  • Infant developmental issues, such as colic or birth trauma

  • Tinnitus (ringing in the ear)


How Craniosacral Therapy Session Works


During a typical craniosacral therapy session, the practitioner lightly touches specific areas of the body, particularly the skull, spine, and pelvis. They use this touch to assess the craniosacral rhythm and identify any areas of tension or restriction. The practitioner may apply gentle manipulations to restore balance in the craniosacral system, helping to improve the flow of cerebrospinal fluid and relieve tension in surrounding tissues.


At Embodied Dynamics, we perform a comprehensive assessment first to decide whether or not a craniosacral therapy is required for you. The comprehensive assessment includes the thorough examination of musculoskeletal system, fascial system (whole-body connective tissue network), lymphatic system, neuro-vascular system, and visceral (internal organ) system. Depending on your needs, craniosacral therapy is provided as a whole session or integrated with other techniques.


Is Craniosacral Therapy Right for You?


Before considering craniosacral therapy as a treatment option, it is essential to consult with a qualified and experienced practitioner. While many individuals find cranial osteopathy to be gentle and effective, it may not be suitable for everyone. Make sure that your practitioner check for any contraindications, conduct a thorough assessment, and tailor the treatment plan to address your specific needs and concerns.


Learn more about the Science behind Craniosacral Therapy


Knowledge is empowering. Whether you are seeking relief from chronic pain, aiming to enhance your overall well-being, or simply curious about alternative healing modalities, craniosacral therapy presents a gentle and profound avenue for exploration. We have prepared a series of articles that explained the science behind the craniosacral therapy. We hope that these articles help you embrace the wisdom of this highly empathetic therapy and embark on a journey towards improved health and vitality.

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