1.  What is craniosacral therapy? Craniosacral therapy (CST), is a non-invasive, light touch therapy that operates under the belief that our bodies have the innate ability to heal themselves. This “inner wisdom” can guide and direct the treatment, allowing your body to return to its natural homeostasis, while also bringing balance to the central nervous system. It is my job as the therapist to listen to this inner wisdom and provide support wherever your body needs it. CST can be used to treat a variety of medical conditions, pain syndromes, and has also been used as a preventative tool. 

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2. How does craniosacral therapy work? The craniosacral system is comprised of the cranium (skull), and spinal canal. Within the cranium and spinal canal is a membranous system that encases our brain and spinal cord.  The brain and spinal cord are also referred to as the central nervous system (CNS). The CNS is responsible for many functions of our body ranging from our ability to digest our food, to being able to walk down the street.  

As we go through life there are various traumas that occur to our bodies. These trauma's can cause movement, or holding patterns that strain the membranes that surround the brain and spinal cord. These restrictions can decrease the nutritional supply to the brain, while also decreasing its capacity to eliminate toxins and function at its optimal capacity. Fortunately, craniosacral therapy helps to release these restriction patterns in the body. It therefore improves the flow of fluid around around the brain and spinal cord to increase overall health, vitality, and wellness. 

 

3. What type of conditions does CST address?

•      TMJ/TMD (tempormandibular dysfunction)

•      Headaches/migraines                                                                   

•      Traumatic brain Injury                                                                                                          

•      Concussion                                                                                     

•      Post concussive syndrome

•      PTSD (post traumatic stress disorder)

•      Anxiety

•      Depression                                                    

•      Chronic Fatigue                                                                              

•      Fibromyalgia                                                                                  

•      Lymes disease                                                                               

•      Chronic pain                                                                                   

•      Whiplash                                                                                         

•      Neurodegenerative disorders

•      Torticollis

•      Tongue Tie

•      Nursing problems

•      Sleep disturbances

•      Autism

•      ADHD/ADD (attention deficit hyperactive disorder/attention deficit disorder)

                                                          

4. Is there any condition in which CST should not be used?  Craniosacral therapy is contra-indicated when changes in the pressure of the intracranial membranes would be detrimental. Some examples of this include an acute intracranial hemorrhage, aneurysm, or other pre-existing severe bleeding disorders. 

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5. How many sessions are typically required? Each person is a unique individual with unique circumstances. Because we are unique, it is hard to give a concrete answer on the amount of treatments one would require. I typically recommend 3 separate sessions to determine if this therapy is the most appropriate tool. Many will notice a significant change in their symptoms and overall vitality after just 2 sessions. If there is no notable improvement by the third session, I will recommend another form of therapy. 

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6. What will a treatment session look like? I recommend that people wear loose, comfortable clothes to allow for complete relaxation during this fully clothed, hands on treatment. Comfort is essential during a CST session. This allows for minimal distraction, which opens each person up to the possibility of improved body awareness and self-directed healing. Once you feel comfortable and safe, I will then evaluate your craniosacral rhythm at various places on your body to determine if there are any holding patterns, impaired alignment or movement of the bones. This assessment allows me to have a clear picture of any disharmony in the system. As stated above, craniosacral therapy is client directed. It is my job as a CST therapist to then work under the wisdom of your body and allow your system to direct my hands in both pressure and placement. The goal of every CST session is to trust our bodies innate ability to self-heal and to give the body the support it needs to return to it's natural homeostasis. Treatment sessions can range from 30 to 90 minutes in length. 

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