CranioSacral Therapy is a gentle, light-touch technique developed by osteopathic physician John E. Upledger, which works with the intrinsic rhythm of the central nervous system (CNS). It is used to detect and correct imbalances in the craniosacral system, which may be the cause of sensory, motor or neurological dysfunction. The craniosacral system consists of the membrane and cerebrospinal fluid that surround and protect the brain and spinal cord. It extends from the bones of the skull, face and mouth, through the spine and down to the sacrum, or tailbone area.
Dysfunction in this system can cause a wide range of disorders including eye problems, CNS disorders, chronic fatigue, motor coordination difficulties, TMJ syndrome (Temporomandibular Joint Dysfunction, which is the technical name for pain and problems related to the joints of the jaw), migraines, depression, and neck and back pain. Complications arise when injury or restrictions affect the bones of the cranium, the spine, or the sacrum. Often, craniosacral dysfunction can begin with a difficult birthing process involving extended labor, or the use of forceps or a suction cup.
CranioSacral Therapy can benefit children and adults with:
- ADD: - meaning 'Attention Deficit Disorder'. The diagnosis given for children and adults who are unable to concentrate on any one subject for more than a few seconds or minutes at a time.
- ADHD: - meaning 'Attention Deficit and Hyperactive Disorder'.
- AUTISIM
I have had great success in treating and eliminating TMJ pain and dysfunction, migraine headaches, and tinnitus, or ringing in the ears. I also watched in wonder as the "lazy eye" of a regular client self-corrected over a couple of weeks! Pregnancy can be aided by the therapy and it can be especially helpful with birth. Cranial work can relieve or prevent some of the problems mentioned above in newborns, infants and toddlers as well.
A session of CranioSacral Therapy usually takes about 1 to 1 ½ hours, and would be done whilst you were fully clothed in a comfortable face-up position. Only very light manual pressure is used during the session and it is therefore very relaxing and virtually pain-free. Often you'll fall asleep through part of the treatment. CranioSacral Therapy works well with all types of health care practices, from massage to dentistry, and from physical medicine to body-mind integration. CranioSacral Therapy can be safe, non-invasive and quite comforting.
By Christopher Riley
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