Craniosacral Therapy (CST) is a gentle, hands-on method of evaluating and enhancing the functioning of the membranes and cerebrospinal fluid that surround and protect the brain and spinal cord. This branch of manual therapy was developed by an osteopathic physician, Dr. John Upledger. It is based on the tenets of osteopathic medicine[1]:
1. The body is a unit; the person is a unit of body, mind, and spirit.
2. The body is capable of self-regulation, self-healing, and health maintenance.
3. Structure and function are reciprocally interrelated.
4. Rational treatment is based upon an understanding of the basic principles of body unity, self-regulation, and the interrelationship of structure and function.
The role of the CST therapist is as a catalyst and facilitator. The therapist assists the client’s body to release restrictions and blockages throughout the body to return to optimal balance and self-healing.
Treatment
During a standard CST treatment, the clothed client lies supine on a massage table for approximately 45-50 minutes. During this time the therapist evaluates the craniosacral system, treats and re-evaluates the client’s body both globally and locally. Treatment includes manual therapy using minimal pressure (as light as 5 grams), working primarily from the pelvis to the large bones in the head. This treatment serves as an invitation to the body to release tensions in the fascia, as well restrictions within the membrane system in the cranium.
Why use Craniosacral Therapy?
Most clients express feeling deep relaxation following a session. CST treatments can also serve as a “re-boot” of the central nervous system, allowing the body to re-align and function more effectively.
CST is particularly indicated for conditions such as migraines, post-concussion syndrome, vertigo and TMJ issues.
Clients have also found regular CST sessions to be a useful strategy to assist in the management of systemic chronic conditions, including chronic pain syndrome, fibromyalgia, Parkinson's disease and rheumatoid arthritis.
If you have questions about CST, or wish to book an appointment, contact Liw Bringelson at Synergy Health and Wellness Centre in Collingwood, ON.
[1] http://www.osteopathic.org/inside-aoa/about/leadership/Pages/tenets-of-osteopathic-medicine.aspx accessed 1 Feb 2017