Craniosacral therapy was developed in the 1970s by Dr. John Upledger. The initial procedure of cranial osteopathy was first developed in the early 1900s by Dr. William Sutherland. It was though Upledger who adapted the work based on his own personal research and observations from his time working as an osteopathic physician.

Dr Upledger based his therapy on a number of theories. The first is that in our infant years, the bones around the skill are not fused completely as they would otherwise normally be for a teenager or grown adult. He then discovered whilst performing surgery that the membranes surrounding the spinal cord and brain moved together in time. It had previously been thought this rhythm was set by the heart but he discovered it was moving to a different beat.

Craniosacral therapists are trained to evaluate and identify the movement of the membranes surrounding the brain and spinal cord by firmly holding the head and the base of the spine and observing on what they feel with their hands and fingers. During this examination, it is possible to lightly adjust the bones of the skull. This will cause the cerebrospinal fluid lining the brain and spinal cord to flow more naturally.

Craniosacral therapy is used for a wide range of symptoms, including chronic fatigue, neck and low back pain, fibromyalgia, and even emotional issues resembling anxiety and depression. It is particularly appropriate for chronic conditions that involve neurological elements. Conditions like learning disorders, coordination issues, and hyperactivity. In addition, this therapy has been used to treat autistic children who often have an unusually tight membrane surrounding the brain and spinal cord. With this treatment it has been possible to loosen the membrane.

Craniosacral therapy can help infants and elders, people of all ages. About the only time the procedure is not recommended is when a high-risk condition such as an intracranial haemorrhage or aneurysm is affecting or is located near the brain or spinal cord. Although, the procedure is simple enough to be practiced by massage therapists, it is not massage. Exceptional training is required perform a procedure like this and to do this type of work. But many people, patients and practitioners alike, swear by it and would on no account try anything else.

The Polwarth Group are a private clinic in Edinburgh consisting of a cosmetic dental practice, a herbal medicine clinic, aromatherapy massage experts and osteopath. Get a totally unique version of this article from our article submission service