What is Cranial Sacral Therapy?

CranioSacral Therapy is a gentle, hands-on method of evaluating and enhancing the function of a body system called the CranioSacral system. The CranioSacral system is comprised of the membranes and cerebrospinal fluid which surrounds, nourishes, and protects the brain and spinal cord. 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 small coin, skilled practitioners can monitor this rhythm at key body areas 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.
 

Typical treatment session

In a typical CranioSacral Therapy session the client remains clothed and lies on their back (if possible) on the treatment table. The therapist may place their hands on key evaluation areas such as the ankles, head, neck and lower back, assessing the state of the client's CranioSacral system.
The treatment itself involves the application of very light forces applied by the therapist's hands. Limbs may be picked up and moved gently and slowly as the body tissues are allowed to 'unwind' themselves. A typical session lasts an hour - though half-hour sessions may be better for children and infants.

CranioSacral Therapy is useful for a wide scope of health problems, including:
• Headache
• Migraine
• Irritable Bowel Syndrome
• Digestive problems
• Chronic back pain
• Depression
• Strokes
• Brain and spinal cord injuries
• Problems of the brain, spinal cord, and nervous system
• Multiple Sclerosis
• Menstrual problems
• Menopausal problems
• Arthritis (Osteo & Rheumatoid)
• TMJ dysfunction (jaw problems)
• Chronic Pain Syndrome
• Post-operative adhesions
• Dyslexia & Dyscalclia
• Allergies
• Neuralgia
• Sinusitis
• Tinnitus/Vertigo
• High/Low blood pressure