CranioSacral Therapy
(CST or Cranial Sacral Therapy)
Overview of CranioSacral Therapy
Craniosacral Therapy was developed by John Upledger, an Osteopathic Physician and is a hands-on form of evaluating and enhancing the
function of the body's craniosacral system. The craniosacral system is made up of membranes and fluid that
protect the brain and spinal cord.
Craniosacral therapists use a soft touch hands on technique (usually no heavier than the weight of a nickel) to
release restrictions in the craniosacral system and to improve the communication and function of the central
nervous system. Craniosacral therapists focus on the rhythm of this fluid, which is
generated by pressure changes throughout the head and spinal column as the cerebrospinal fluid is produced and
absorbed. The craniosacral system has a rhythm of 6-12 cycles per minute. Dr. Sutherland (one of the pioneers)
studied this rhythm or motion of the cranial bones and felt that its movement involved a network of interrelated
tissues and fluids at the core of the body. His theory was based on "primary respiration" believing that the cranial bones moved or breathed. He believed that
the primary respiratory mechanism can only exist in its relationship to the whole, and that the whole exists
complete within itself.
Craniosacral therapy is very gentle and subtle and focuses on the palpitations of this rhythm. The therapist, by
gentle touch and a type of "laying on of hands" can aid the body in "unlocking or "releasing" muscle constraints
and spasms, pain, discomfort, and other patterns in the body.
What to expect during your CranioSacral Therapy Session
Each individual experiences something different during their session. Some individuals have fallen asleep, while
others feel deep relaxation. Most individuals feel that their muscles release or loosen up. Usually the individual
feels a "warmth or heat" from where the therapists hands are. Some individuals may even experience an emotional
release during their session. CranioSacral Therapy was designed to compliment the body's own natural
healing processes.
Benefits of Craniosacral Therapy
The following concerns are often helped with this type of therapy:
- Migraine Headaches
- Chronic Neck and Back Pain
- Motor-Coordination Impairments
- Central Nervous System Disorders
- Orthopedic Problems
- Scoliosis
- Chronic Fatigue
- Emotional Difficulties
- Stress and Tension-Related Problems
- Fibromyalgia and other Connective-Tissue Disorders
- Temporomandibular Joint Syndrome (TMJ)
- Neurovascular or Immune Disorders
Craniosacral therapy is not a massage. Therapists perform craniosacral work with the person's clothes on, for
this reason, Craniosacral therapists are not required to be licensed by the state. Therapists who perform
CranioSacral Therapy have undergone specialized training in this technique.
45 - 60 Minute Session $40.00
References: Upledger Institute; Michael Kern, DO., R.C.S.T.,
M.I.Cr.A., N.D.; Mark E. Rosen, DO FCA
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