How does CranioSacral Therapy work?

CranioSacral Therapy works by helping the body’s natural healing mechanisms dissipate the negative effects of stress on the central nervous system.

This is accomplished through utilizing a physiological body system called the craniosacral system, which maintains the environment in which the central nervous system functions. It consists of the membranes and cerebrospinal fluid that surround and protect the brain and spinal cord, extending from the bones of the skull, face and mouth (which make up the cranium) down to the tailbone area (or sacrum). The role of this system in the development and performance of the brain and spinal cord is so vital that an imbalance or dysfunction in it can cause sensory, motor and/or neurological disabilities.

Like the pulse of the cardiovascular system, the craniosacral system has a rhythm that can be felt throughout the body. Using a touch generally no heavier than the weight of a nickel, skilled practitioners can rhythm at key body points to pinpoint 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, CST may be combined with other complementary therapies to help restore the body to its optimum functioning level.

CranioSacral therapy (CST) enhances the body’s natural healing processes and has been effective for a wide range of medical problems associated with pain and dysfunction, including:

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

How is a session performed?

Our craniosacral therapy session will take place in a quiet, private room. We recommend that our clients wear loose, comfortable clothing. While remaining fully clothed and lying on the massage table, the session is performed with the client reclining on a massage or treatment table while the our Therapist stands or sits, positioned at various times throughout the session at the client's head, middle torso or feet.

The method generally requires only five grams of pressure – the equivalent weight of a 20 cent coin – to test for restrictions in various parts of the craniosacral system. Any imbalance or restriction in it could be potentially cause sensory, motor or neurological disabilities like motor co-ordination impairments, learning disabilities, dyslexia, behavioural problems and autism.

What can CranioSacral Therapy Do For You?

Every individual will experience craniosacral therapy differently and results can be diverse as well. The goal, however, is achieved by helping the body to correct its dysfunction, thus regaining homeostasis, reduced symptoms and improved well being.

For more information on the therapy, please see www.upledger.com