Exploring the Benefits of Craniosacral Therapy
Is it Right for You?
What is Craniosacral Therapy?
CranioSacral Therapy (CST) is a light-touch, manual therapy that releases tensions, as well as restrictions deep in the body to relieve pain and dysfunction and improve overall health. CST was developed by Osteopathic Physician, John E. Upledger after extensive clinical research at Michigan State University. In 1985 the Upledger Institute International was established. The Upledger Institute International trains healthcare professionals on these light touch techniques. These techniques can be very helpful for many conditions. We often get many questions when people begin to explore the benefits of craniosacral therapy, wondering if it is the right therapy for them. This blog is exploring the benefits of craniosacral therapy and if it may be right for you.
Benefits of Craniosacral Therapy
Our bodies endure stresses and strains daily and our bodies may compensate as a result. This can often cause tissues to tighten and change or distort the craniosacral system. The craniosacral system is the membranes and fluid that surround, protect, and nourish the brain and spinal cord. Craniosacral therapy techniques can be performed to detect and correct these restrictions. With gentle pressure, the restrictions in the craniosacral system can be released and allow the body to self-correct and heal.
Conditions that the craniosacral techniques can improve are migraines, headaches, neck pain, back pain, stress and tension, depression, TMJ dysfunction, fibromyalgia, scoliosis, side effects from cancer treatment, immune and hormone issues. By releasing restrictions in the craniosacral system, muscle tensions associated with the above dysfunctions melt away. This is how our bodies improve in function and experience a reduction in pain after a treatment session.
What to Expect at a Craniosacral Therapy Appointment
A typical Craniosacral session lasts for about 45 minutes. The craniosacral techniques are performed in a quiet and private room. Using a light touch, the therapist evaluates or “listens to” the body for tension patterns and imbalances. Skilled therapists can enhance fluid flow and balance membrane tension. This will promote enhanced fluid motility and allow the body’s healing to take place. What is experienced during a CST session is highly individualized. Some say they feel deeply relaxed, while others describe feeling unwinding sensations as the body releases tension. Many people feel a sense of ease, balance, and a renewed sense of energy after the session.
Conclusion
Craniosacral therapy techniques can be very helpful for many conditions. Craniosacral therapy is an alternative to conventional medicine. We have found that it is a great adjunct or addition to other treatment methods. At Freedom PT Services, we have Craniosacral trained therapists who look forward to helping improve your quality of life, reduce your aches and pains, and restore energy and function to your daily life. We hope that we have helped you in exploring the benefits of craniosacral therapy.