Much like the petals of a flower, the twenty-two bones of the cranium expand and contract with the pumping action of the cerebrospinal fluid. What is often perceived as a tightly closed set of bones, is instead part of the Craniosacral System inside each of us that is rhythmically moving each day of our lives. When the bones of the cranium are moving freely and are balanced, the individual's nervous system operates smoothly.

When movement is compromised due to tension or injury to the head, neck or spine, symptoms may arise. Chronic headaches, migraines, shoulder pain, TMJ dysfunction and insomnia are a few of the manifestations of imbalances in the central nervous system due to craniosacral dysfunctions.

Dr. William Sutherland, an Osteopathic student in the early 1900's, devoted more than 20 years of his career proving that the distinctly beveled patterns of the suture lines of the cranium were designed to move in relation to one another. In the 1970's, John Upledger, DO, using Sutherland's early work, identified the Craniosacral System. This system is a three-layered membrane system composed of the meninges, the cerebrospinal fluid and the structures within the membrane system, including the brain and spinal cord and the pituitary and pineal glands.

Craniosacral Therapy is a powerful healing modality on its own or combined with other modalities, as preventative care or treatment for chronic and acute situations. The Craniosacral Therapist evaluates the imbalances in the central nervous system with a sensitive touch and suggests correct movement which engages one's own self-correcting mechanism and assists in sorting out many deep patterns of imbalance. This process is profoundly relaxing and has been described as the ultimate relaxation of mind and body.

Craniosacral Therapy is being used by various healthcare professionals including Osteopaths, Chiropractors, Acupuncturists, Physical Therapists and qualified bodyworkers.

Source: Paula Givan, Denver CO.

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