What is Cranial Sacral Therapy?

Cranial Sacral Therapy is an alternative approach in working with the body’s cranium, spine and sacrum that are connected by a membrane of connective tissue call the dura mater. This alternative treatment identifies and reduces perceived restrictions in movement of the dural sheath and in the flow of cerebrospinal fluid as a means of restoring health. The practice of Cranial Sacral Therapy uses very light tough to balance the rhythm of this system, which includes the bones of the skull, sacrum, nervous system, cerebral spinal fluid and the connective tissues associated with this system.

The research of Dr. William Sutherland, in the early 1900’s, noticed movement of the cranium and pelvis. Prior to his research, Doctor’s believed the bones of the skull were a solid mass. Sutherland’s work concluded there are 22 movable bones within the cranium that are connected by tissue. Dr. John Upledger, an osteopathic physician, at the College of Osteopathic Medicine, learned of Sutherland's research and developed it further. Dr. Sutherland perceived that the Cerebral Spinal Fluid (CSF) functions like a wave within the compartment of the dura mater. This movement is referred to as the primary respiratory impulse known as the craniosacral rhythm (CSR).

A Cranial Sacral Therapist is able to sense the CSR by lightly touching the base of the skull and/or the sacrum. The therapist is looking for imbalance in the rate and quality of flow of the CSR. To correct, the therapist applies very light touch to balance the flow of the CSR. When the cerebrospinal fluid is moving freely, the body’s natural healing process responds.

Cranial Sacral Therapy is recommended for people who suffer from headache or migraine pain, TMJ discomfort, Whiplash, Depression, Insomnia, PTSD, Head Trauma, Dyslexia and Menstral Cycle challenges.

Please contact Michele with additional questions.