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Health interventions in the early stages of stress and discomfort can assist with preventing conditions from getting worse, or can be used to identify any bigger underlying issue.
However, there is some debate about whether craniosacral therapy actually helps the fluid to circulate, or if this is an action that happens due to other body functions such as respiration (breathing).
The hands-on, rhythmic movements of craniosacral therapy are said to create small vibrations that help the different parts of the CNS, and the body in general, by encouraging better communication.
Although craniosacral therapy has been around for decades, due to a lack of clinical research, it does not have a scientific basis.
Manipulating the cranium and sacral bones allows the therapist to reach the deeper layers of membrane and fluid, using only the hands.
Dr. William Sutherland, who pioneered cranial osteopathy in the '30s and '40s, referred to the craniosacral rhythm as the "Breath of Life."
When the Breath of Life becomes restricted, for whatever reason, the other rhythms and flows are put out of balance. Craniosacral therapy helps the body to regain harmony.
Where a therapist identifies an imbalance, they reposition the client to "release" the flow of fluid. Some people fall asleep, others enter a meditative state and feel relaxed or energized (sometimes both).
He believed that all other rhythms and flows in the body, such as the rhythm of breathing and the blood flow, were connected to and influenced by the flow of craniosacral fluid.
A physio, osteopath, physical therapist, occupational therapist, or chiropractor can typically offer craniosacral therapy.
While generally considered safe, those who've had blood clots, brain swelling or brain injuries, concussion, or a brain aneurysm are not advised to undergo craniosacral therapy.
It says that when fascia is restricted, the movement of cerebrospinal fluid is hindered. When it's difficult for the fluid to move, it results in pain caused by pressure on the nerves and the connective tissues becoming tighter.
Connective tissues and cerebrospinal fluid work alongside the bones to protect the structures of the CNS, and help it to work properly.
The skull and the sacrum are connected via the spine. The spinal cord and brain make up the central nervous system (CNS).
When we talk about the craniosacral system it refers to the skull, cerebrospinal fluid, and the membranes of the brain and the spinal cord.
Cerebrospinal fluid is produced in the center of the brain in hollow spaces called ventricles. The production and absorption of this colorless fluid by the three membranes of the brain and spinal cord cause a rhythmic expansion and contraction in the cerebrospinal system.
The activities of the craniosacral system are influenced by the musculoskeletal system, endocrine system, vascular system, and sympathetic and parasympathetic nervous systems.
By making light adjustments using a "subtle therapy" like craniosacral therapy, restrictions on the bone and membrane are helped to release.
Craniosacral therapy is a combination of theories and techniques developed by two doctors of osteopathy in the 1930s and 1970s.
The cranium refers to the bony structure that protects the brain i.e. the skull, while the sacrum is a triangular-shaped bone located in the lower back, between the two hips.
One theory put forward about why craniosacral therapy might be helpful is due to the action of the fascia (tissue), of the craniosacral system.
There's a belief underlying craniosacral therapy which suggests that the body is capable of healing itself, under the right conditions and circumstances.
Gaining better self-awareness of the body, the body's energy, and the senses is considered to be an integral part of maintaining health in craniosacral therapy.
In this way, craniosacral therapy is considered to be more than just a way to help reduce stress and tension in the body.
Better body awareness means recognizing the signs and symptoms of something being wrong earlier on, so interventions can be made.
As with any health concern, it's best to have a checkup with your doctor if you have an ailment or concern, as they can advise medical treatment. Craniosacral therapy might be a suitable complementary therapy for you.
Sources: (Healthline) (Medical News Today) (Cleveland Clinic) (VeryWell Health)
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This rhythmic motion is known as the Cranial Rhythm or Cranial Rhythmic Impulse. The expansion and contraction stages are known as flexion and extension.
Light massage helps to calm the sympathetic nervous system, the body's fight or flight mechanism, as the fascia becomes more relaxed.
During a session of craniosacral therapy, areas of the cerebrospinal system between the skull and the spine are lightly massaged using low pressure.
There are numerous alternative therapies that can complement the treatment of chronic conditions. Craniosacral therapy, also known as CST, is one such modality. The term refers to the areas in the body targeted: the cranium and the sacrum. It's touted as being beneficial for a host of health concerns, such as chronic pain, headaches, fibromyalgia, and even depression and anxiety. Of course, everyone's experience is different, but what does this therapy actually do? And is any of it backed up by science?
Click on to find out more.
What does craniosacral therapy do?
This alternative therapy is supposed to help with relaxation
LIFESTYLE Alternative wellness
There are numerous alternative therapies that can complement the treatment of chronic conditions. Craniosacral therapy, also known as CST, is one such modality. The term refers to the areas in the body targeted: the cranium and the sacrum. It's touted as being beneficial for a host of health concerns, such as chronic pain, headaches, fibromyalgia, and even depression and anxiety. Of course, everyone's experience is different, but what does this therapy actually do? And is any of it backed up by science?
Click on to find out more.