Craniosacral Therapy

I've been waiting for Adam to post about this because I could not think of a concise way to explain what it is. Then I found this description online--it sounds almost exactly like how our therapist described it! So, here is a great summary for you!

What is cranial osteopathy?
Cranial Osteopathy is a specialist area of osteopathy that concentrates on the fine movements of the bones of the head, the cranial bones. The brain is immersed in a fluid called cerebro-spinal fluid that bathes and protects the tissues in and around the brain. This fluid pulsates at around 6-15 times a minute, in a healthy craniosacral system, and is known as the cranial sacral rhythm. By manipulating the bones of the head and face the cranial osteopaths can encourage and improve the circulation of cerebro-spinal fluid, helping the body restore itself to health.

Cranial osteopathy was developed by the American osteopath William G Sutherland in the 1930s. Contrary to popular belief, Sutherland found the cranial bones were not actually fused but were capable of minute movements. By experimenting on his own head using gentle compression he showed that he could detect and help many problems. He developed refined and subtle techniques using gentle pressure to encourage the release of tension and strains in the cranium and throughout the body.

Although the name suggests manipulation of the head, cranial osteopathy is a treatment of the whole body. Treatment may also involve the use of other osteopathic techniques.

What is Craniosacral Therapy (CST)?
The craniosacral approach evolved from cranial osteopathy and extends the focus to the whole cranio-sacral system, which consists of the bones of the cranium, spine and sacrum, the surrounding membranes and cerebrospinal fluid.

Craniosacral therapy was pioneered and developed by American osteopath, John.E.UpLedger and fellow researchers at Michigan University following extensive scientific studies from 1975 to 1983 at Michigan State University.

Practitioners are trained to use their hands to sense the flow of cranio-sacral fluid (CSF) feeling for restrictions and congestion that can affect the cranial sacral rhythm. The effects of which may be physical and emotional. By applying gentle pressure to the sacrum and the skull, the practitioner aims to release restrictions in the craniosacral system to improve the functioning of the central nervous system, encouraging the body's natural self- healing processes.

Ellie's appointment went really well and we felt like she was a bit more aware during and after the appointment, but we didn't notice drastic improvement (and we didn't expect that either). It is supposed to take 4-5 visits before most of the work can be done, and in Ellie's case, maybe longer. We'll keep you updated!