Craniosacral Therapy
CranioSacral Therapy is a gentle, hands-on method of evaluating and enhancing the function of a physiological body system called the craniosacral system - comprised of the membranes and cerebrspinal fluid that surrounds and protects the brain and spinal cord.
CranioSacral Therapy is a light-touch manual therapy that works with the body to enhance the body's natural healing processes.
How is CranioSacral Therapy performed?
A CST session usually takes place in a quiet, private setting. Clients remain fully clothed. The session is performed with the client reclining on a treatment table while the practitioner stands or sits, positioned at varoius times throughout the session at the client's head, torso or feet. A typical CST session lasts approximately one hour.
How does CranioSacral Therapy work?
CST works by helping the body's natural healing mechanisms dissipate the negative effects of stress, especially within the nervous system. This is accomplished primarily through utilizing a physiological body system called the craniosacral system, the environment in which the central nervous system functions. It consists of the membranes and cerebrospinal fluid that surround and protect the brain and spinal cord, extending from the bones of the skull, face and mouth (which make up the cranium) down to the tailbone area (or sacrum).
CST works on the understanding that imbalance or dysfunction of this system can adversely affect the development and performance of the brian and spinal cord and contribute to sensory, motor and/or neurological disabilities.
What conditions can CranioSacral Therapy help?
Because of its influence on the functioning of the nervous system, CST can benefit the body in a number of ways - from reducing stress and enhancing overall health to alleviating a wide range of specific medical conditions associated with pain and dysfunction, inlcuding:
- Neck and back pain
- Headaches and migraines
- Orthopaedic problems
- Occupational overuse syndrome
- Central Nervous system disorders
- Post-surgical dysfunction
- Fibromyalgia and other connective tissue disorders
- Neurovascular or immune disorders
- Colic
- Learning disabilities
- Traumatic brain and spinal cord injuries
The extremely light touch involved with the application of CST makes it a safe approach for people of all ages, inlcuding children, infants and newborns.
