CRANIOSACRAL THERAPY
CranioSacral Therapy (CST) was pioneered and developed by osteopathic physician John E. Upledger after years of clinical testing
and research at Michigan State University where he served as professor of biomechanics.
The craniosacral system is a semi-closed hydraulic physiological system comprised of the membranes and cerebrospinal fluid that
surround, protect, and nourish the brain & spinal cord. As such, the craniosacral system has a significant influence on the central
nervous system.
Every day our bodies incur various degrees of stresses and strains that it must compensate for. Whether we feel them or not, these
tensions can cause our body tissues to tighten up and distort the craniosacral system. In turn, this can create restrictions within the
central nervous system and thus affect its performance. As the tensions accumulate and intensify, the restrictions will eventually
produce a ripple effect and create disruptions within other physiological systems.
Fortunately, trained CST practitioners can detect the distortions and imbalances within the craniosacral system. With the use of a
very light touch, they can examine various locations of the body to monitor the subtle, distinctive motion and rhythm of the system.
Based on their evaluation, they can then determine the most appropriate treatment protocol.
Treating the craniosacral system more or less utilizes the same aforementioned light touch (about 5-10 grams of pressure).
Internally, the membranes of the craniosacral system attach to certain bones of the cranium & spinal column, so practitioners can
use these bones as "handles" to access and treat the craniosacral system. This method of treatment enables them to gently remove
the distortions and imbalances in the system via the membranes. In so doing, the movement of the fluids in and around the central
nervous system improves, and thus enhances the overall functioning of the central nervous system.
BENEFITS
By helping to normalize the environment in and around the brain & spinal cord, CST stimulates the body's inherent self-correcting
mechanisms. Also, CST is being utilized more and more as a preventive health measure for its ability to strengthen the body's
resistance to disease and to promote homeostasis. CST can be effective for a wide range of medical conditions that are associated
with pain and dysfunction, some of which include:
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Headaches and Migraines
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Chronic Neck and Back Pain
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Dizziness
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Orthopedic Problems
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Scoliosis
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Temporomandibular Joint Dysfunction (TMJ)
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Stress and Tension Related Issues
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Fibromyalgia
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Chronic Fatigue Syndrome
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Concussions
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Brain & Spinal Cord Injuries
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Motor Coordination Impairments
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Neuro-Vascular Disorders
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Learning Disabilities
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Infant & Childhood Disorders