CranioSacral Therapy (CST)
CranioSacral Therapy (CST) is a treatment technique developed by osteopathic physician and researcher John E. Upledger, D.O.. O.M.M. to enhance body functioning and help alleviate pain and discomfort.
The CranioSacral system is comprised of the membranes and cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) that surround the brain and spinal cord, providing protection, bringing nutrients and taking away waste products from the cells in the brain and spinal cord. These membranes attach themselves to the bones of the skull, face and mouth (the cranium), all the way down to the tailbone area (sacrum). The membranes within the system are attached (directly or indirectly) to connective tissue throughout the body. This connection allows stresses or restrictions outside of the CranioSacral system to affect membranes within the system and vice versa. It also allows a practitioner to impact conditions inside and outside of the system itself.
This system has a profound effect on the development and performance of the brain and spinal cord and an imbalance or restriction could cause any number of sensory, motor or neurologic difficulties. Potential problems include chronic pain, eye difficulties, scoliosis, motor coordination impairments, learning disabilities, sensory processing difficulties and other health problems.
CST is a very gentle method of intervention that detects and then corrects restrictions, encouraging the natural healing abilities of the body to return to balance. It promotes the body’s ability to reduce the negative effects of stress on the nervous system.
Use of CST as part of a child’s therapy program facilitates gains in other areas and can be very effective in treating many conditions including:
- Migraines and headaches
- Anxiety
- Sensory Defensiveness and Arousal Modulation Issues
- Spasticity and resulting postural or movement difficulties
- Gastroesophogeal Reflux (GERD)
- Colic
- Sleep disturbances
- Learning Disabilities
- Scoliosis