How Did CranioSacral Therapy Begin?
CranioSacral Therapy dates back to 1970 when osteopathic physician John E. Upledger first witnessed the
rhythmic movement of the craniosacral system during spinal surgery. Yet none of his colleagues nor
medical texts could explain the phenomena.
Two years later, Dr. Upledger attended a short course on cranial osteopathy developed by Dr. William
Sutherland. The course focused on the bones of the skull and the fact - surprising at the time - that
they weren`t fused as doctors had been taught in medical school. Instead, Sutherland`s material
demonstrated that skull bones continue to move throughout a person`s life.
Recalling the odd pulsing rhythm he`d observed years before, Dr. Upledger theorized that a hydraulic
system of sorts was functioning inside the craniosacral system that encased the skull and spinal column.
He then set out to confirm his theories.
In 1975 he joined the Osteopathic College at Michigan State University as a clinical researcher and Professor
of Biomechanics. There he led a team of anatomists, physiologists, biophysicists and bioengineers to test
and document the influence of therapy on the craniosacral system. For the first time they were able to
explain the function of the craniosacral system, and demonstrate how light-touch therapy could be used
to evaluate and treat malfunctions involving the brain and spinal cord. Indeed, some of Dr. Upledger`s most
effective results came from work done with hundreds of school children.
What Conditions Does CranioSacral Therapy Address?
CranioSacral Therapy strengthens your body`s ability to take better care of you. It helps alleviate a range of illnes, pain and dysfunction, including:
- Migraines and Headaches
- Chronic neck and Back Pain
- Motor-coordination Impairments
- Stess and Tension-Related Problems
- Infantile Disorders
- Traumatic Brain and Spinal Cord Injuries
- Cronic Nervous System Disorders
- Emotional Difficulties
- Temporomandibular Joint Syndrome (TMJ)
- Learning Disabilities
- Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder
- Orthopedic Problems
- Any many Other Conditions
The Therapeutic Value of CranioSacral Therapy
While the validity of the cardiovascular and respiratory rhythms is undisputed today, for eons the very existence of these systems sparked debates in medical communities around the globe. Now for nearly 30 years, osteopathic physician and resarcher John E. Upledger, D.O., O.M.M., has been a proponent of using the rhythm of another body system - the craniosacral system - to enhance body functioning, and help alleviate pain and discomfort.
The craniosacral system consists of the membranes and cerebrospinal fluid that surround and protect the brain and spinal cord. It extends from the bones of the skull, face and mouth, wich make up the cranium, down to the sacrum, or tailbone area.
Since this vital system influences the development and performance of the brain and spinal cord, an imbalance or restriction in it could potentially couse any number of sensory, motor or neurological disabilities. These problems could include chronic pain, eye difficulties, scoliosis, motor-coordination impairments, learning disabilities and other health challenges.
CranioSacral Therapy is a gentle method of detection and correction that encourages your own natural healing mechanisms to dissipate these negative effects of stress on your central nervous system. You also benefit from better overall health and resistence to disease.
