Craniosacral Therapy

Craniosacral Therapy

Craniosacral therapy is a noninvasive, hands-on treatment that relieves compression in the head, spinal column and sacrum. This bodywork can be highly beneficial for conditions such as sinus infections, TMJ syndrome and migraines/headaches.

The theory behind craniosacral therapy is that the skull bones, spinal cord and sacrum form part of a semiclosed hydraulic physiological system composed of membrane barriers, lubricating fluids and an oscillatory wave-like motion known as the cranial rhythmic impulse. When these vital membranes and liquids become obstructed, this tidal wave slows or stops completely causing symptoms throughout our bodies.

Craniosacral therapy utilizes light touch (about the weight of a nickel) to feel the cranial rhythmic impulse as it travels from sutures in the skull to the spinal cord and then into other parts of the body. Therapists assess rate, amplitude, symmetry and quality of this impulse in order to identify any restrictions or blockages.

When a client lies supine, the practitioner should apply less than 5 grams of pressure to the occipital protuberance and front bone of the skull. They may also reach under their lower back to palpate their sacrum.

Craniosacral therapy is safe and effective for almost everyone, providing relief from conditions like neck/back pain, sinus infections, TMJ syndrome, fibromyalgia and migraines/headaches. Unfortunately it’s not suitable for individuals with hydrocephalus (water on the brain) or who have a shunt that is not working properly.