WHAT IS CRANIOSACRAL THERAPY?

For over 30 years, osteopathic pysician and researcher, John E. Epledger, D.O., O.M.M., has been a proponent of using the rhythm of the craniosacral system to enhance body functioning and to help alleviate pain and discomfort.

The craniosacral system consists of the membranes and the cerebrospinal fluid that surround and protect the brain and the spinal cord.  The membrane that forms the covering surrounding the entire brain and spinal cord is called the meningeal system. This membrane is made up of three layers. The outer layer is called the "dura mater." It is waterproof and is very tough. The inner layer is called the "pia mater." This layer comes in contact with every groove and surface of the brain and spinal cord. It also carries blood vessels that nourish the brain and spinal cord. The middle layer is called the "arachnoid membrane." This layer provides a gliding surface for the other two membranes. Between each of the three layers is a fluid, called the cerebrospinal fluid (CSF). It provides lubrication between the layers. If the layers get stuck together, the result may be pain.  This vital system influences the development and performance of the brain and spinal cord; therefore, if an imbalance or restriction is present there may be any number of sensory, motor, or neurological disabilities. 

CranioSacral Therapy is a gentle method of detecting and correcting restrictions or inbalances, and encourages your own natural healing mechanisms to dissipate these negative effects of stress on your central nervous system. 

WHAT CONDITIONS DOES CRANIOSACRAL THERAPY ADDRESS?

CranioSacral Therapy can help to alleviate a range of illnessess, pain, and dysfunctions including:

• Migraines and Headaches
• Chronic Neck and Back Pain
• Motor-Coordination impairments
• Stress and Tension Related Problems
• Chronic Fatigue
• Emotional Difficulties
• Temporomandibular Joint Syndrome (TMJ)
• Learning Disabilities
• Orthopedic Problems
• Many Other Conditions

HOW IS CRANIOSACRAL THERAPY PERFORMED?

It is performed on a person fully clothed.  The touch is very light, usually no more than the weight of a nickel.  The therapist monitors the rhythm of the crasiosacral system to detect potential restrictions and imbalances.  Then delicate manual techniques are used to release those problem areas and to relieve undue pressure on the brain and spinal cord.  If a body is free of restrictions, it is able to return to its greatest levels of performance.

In my practice, I use CranioSacral Therapy in conjuction with other therapeutic and manual procedures.