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Craniosacral Therapy

What is CranioSacral therapy?

CranioSacral therapy (CST) is based on the findings of osteopathic physicians Dr. William Sutherland and Dr. John Upledger. Dr. Sutherland proposed that the skull plates remain flexible throughout adulthood. Dr Upledger observed the rhythmic movement of the membrane that encompasses the spinal cord (the dura mater) and recognized its fundamental importance for the proper functioning of the body.

CST is a light-touch manual therapy concerned with the craniosacral system, the membranes and fluid that surround and protect the brain and spinal cord. Like the pulse of the cardiovascular system, the craniosacral system has a rhythm that can be felt throughout the body. Using a light touch, skilled practitioners can monitor the rhythm and identify the source of improper tensions and compressions of the membranes and obstructions to the flow of the fluid.

By gentle manipulation of the cranium (the bones of the skull, face and mouth) and the sacrum (the triangular bone at the base of the spine), a practitioner can make subtle physical adjustments to release improper tensions and compressions of the membranes and obstructions to the flow of the fluid thus allowing the craniosacral system to operate correctly in supporting the body's optimal health.

What conditions can CST help?

Because of its influence on the functioning of the central nervous system, CST can bolster overall health and resistance and is also proven to be effective in the treatment of a range of chronic and acute ailments. These include migraine headaches, chronic neck and back pain, chronic fatigue, and stress and tension-related problems. Among CST's largest patient groups are those suffering chronic symptoms that have not been helped by other approaches. In particular, CST is beneficial to those with head, neck or back injuries resulting from a fall or car, sports or work accidents.

For children and infants, CST can help with colic, reflux, poor sucking or not latching on when breastfeeding, irritability, motor delay (late in rolling/crawling), torticollis (head turned in one direction), scoliosis (curvature of the spine) and plagiocephaly (asymmetrical head shape).

How is CST performed?

CST usually takes place in a quiet, private setting, and is performed on a person fully clothed. Using a light touch, the practitioner uses delicate manual techniques to release problem areas and relieve undue pressure on the brain and spinal cord. A typical CST session lasts between 15 minutes and one hour.


Our Practioners are here:

Caroline Rhodes, Maria Trumpp, Sarah Eames and Kate Tong