Benefits of cranial sacral therapy with osteopathic techniques
Cranial Osteopathy is a gentle hands-on form of bodywork that assists the body in releasing compression of the bones of the cranium, sacrum, and spine, allowing cerebral spinal fluid to flow more easily. Cerebral spinal fluid is the liquid that surrounds the brain and spinal cord. When the flow of this fluid gets blocked and is unable to pump in its natural state, the body is likely to be in a compromised state of health. The goal of cranial sacral therapy is to release these blockages. Once the cerebral spinal fluid is flowing easily, tension releases, and people report a sense of overall well-being and lightness, improved sleep, and reduction of pain.
As a certified Cranial Sacral Therapist, my experience of using the practice with my patients has been very rewarding. Clients have reported decreased pain, improved sleep, improved mood, and feeling calmer and more clear-headed. CST has been a great adjunct to my treatment of orthopedic pain such as chronic neck and lower back pain, post-surgical tightness and soft tissue restrictions, and increasing range of motion in the spine and extremities. Cranial sacral therapy has also been shown to be very helpful for treating trauma. I have found this work to be especially helpful for people going through difficult life transitions including cancer treatments, loss of a loved one, and PTSD related to recent or past trauma. This work helps release deep grief. Patients generally report a noticeable improvement within three sessions
My experience as a Physical Therapist for over 24 years has led me to believe that chronic pain is difficult to manage. Pain medication, injections, and surgeries are often not the answer to lingering pain. With chronic pain, there is always an emotional or physical trauma that may have occurred in the past which contributes to the body wanting to hold onto the pain. During a Cranial Sacral Therapy session, you are allowed to explore past traumas, memories, and stresses that may be contributing to the chronic pain pattern. At times, you may simply want to enjoy the gentle relaxation of the cranial work without having to focus on deeper concerns that may be paining you. Each session is different, but always beneficial due to the cumulative benefits of this work. Subsequent treatments create a feeling of safety, allowing a deeper healing experience to become possible.
Cranial Sacral Therapy Can Help with:
Migraine headaches
Lymphedema
Depression/anxiety
Spinal pain
Sciatica
Post-concussion syndrome
Whiplash
Scar tissue/myofascial restrictions
Parkinson's disease
Post Traumatic Stress Disorder
Disturbed sleep
Asthma
Trauma
TMJ
Dizziness/vertigo
Stress
Frozen shoulder
Post orthopedic surgeries
Multiple Sclerosis
CVA
Chronic pain