The Power of CranioSacral Therapy
As we have discussed in previous blog posts, the heart of CranioSacral Therapy focuses on the craniosacral system, which surrounds and protects the brain and spinal cord. These crucial structures control every part of our body and the way it functions. By closely tuning into to the craniosacral rhythm that is created as cerebrospinal fluid is produced and reabsorbed, CranioSacral Therapists can identify restrictions in the body that may be impeding its performance.
"Listening" to this rhythm enables therapists to look past the superficial symptoms that may be presenting so that we may instead identify and address the true source of the problem. (If you'd like a broader explanation of the craniosacral rhythm and how it works, please visit our previous blog post.)
Because of its unique client-centered approach, the possible applications of CranioSacral Therapy are practically endless. However, for the purposes of this blog post, we've identified seven examples that can help convey the different types of scenarios in which CranioSacral Therapy can be helpful.
7 Powerful Applications of CranioSacral Therapy
1. Headaches & Migraines
This is quite possibly one of the most common symptoms CranioSacral Therapy can help treat. Contrary to popular belief (in the United States), all of the cranial bones (and every other structure in the body) is designed to move slightly as cerebrospinal fluid is produced and reabsorbed. Though not necessarily always the case, headaches and migraines are frequently the result of this movement being restricted -- especially if the restriction occurs in one of the cranial bones. CranioSacral Therapy can identify where the restriction lies and help offer the resources the body needs to overcome this restriction.
2. Infertility
For couples who wish to have children, the stress of being unable to conceive is unlike any other. Fertility challenges can be the result of physical problems, but in some situations they may also be the result of unresolved trauma or other emotional/psychological issues. In either scenario, CranioSacral Therapy offers the tools needed to address the issues at their roots.
3. Concussions
Though not usually life-threatening, the effects of a concussion can still be quite serious. Repeated concussions are especially debilitating. Depending on the severity of the injury, the brain may be bruised, the nerve tissue may be stretched or sheared, and/or the brain may become chemically imbalanced. When the brain is injured, it creates restriction in the dura mater membrane (the tough sac that protects the brain). This membrane is one of the primary structures targeted by CST. The Upledger Institute has created an ongoing program to treat retired professional football players that experienced multiple concussions throughout their career, and the results have been truly phenomenal. You can read more about their program here.
 |
| Photo Credit: www.Upledger.org |
4. Depression, Anxiety, & PTSD
Anxiety, depression, and post-traumatic stress disorder are classified as mental health issues, but as we know, the body is an integrated whole. We believe that in order to truly address these types of issues, it is crucial that we treat the physical body as well. The tissues within the body process every event that happens in our lives. If there is a certain (or recurring) event that is overwhelming or traumatic, the body may choose to hold onto the accompanying energy/emotions until it can be processed safely. The body then has to compensate around this holding pattern. If it doesn't get the opportunity to release, it can create a strain on the body and various symptoms may develop as a result. CST enables the therapist to tune into the tissues and create a safe environment so that these emotions can finally be processed and released.
5. Scoliosis
Everything in the human body is connected. If the sacrum (the bone at the lower end of the spine) and/or one of the bones in the cranium becomes stuck in a twisted position, the twist may extend all the way down the spine. Our CranioSacral Therapist at the Lake of the Ozarks uses the craniosacral rhythm to identify the area of most restriction and begins treatment there. Depending on the cause of the scoliosis, CST can be an effective way to help treat (and in some cases, completely resolve) scoliosis symptoms.
6. Birth Trauma
Childbirth is a pivotal moment in the lives of both newborns, mothers, and fathers. Unfortunately, birth is a vulnerable process that can be disrupted by various complications, interventions, and environmental influences. CST offers moms, dads, and babies a gentle and supportive therapy that can help their bodies get back on track and honor their emotional journeys. One of our favorite sayings from advanced teachers at The Upledger Institute is, "we can't change what happened, but we can change how our bodies remember it."
7. TMJ Problems
Depending on their severity, challenges within the temporomandibular joint can range from simply annoying to completely debilitating. Our experienced CranioSacral Therapist in Mid-Missouri can use the rhythm to identify which areas of the body may be restricted, and which of those restrictions may be affecting the alignment of the temporomandibular joint. There are several CST techniques that work directly in the mouth, thus providing a very effective way to help the jaw work its way back to proper alignment.
TMJ dysfunction is often a more complex issue than most people realize, and the jaw itself is rarely the primary culprit. This joint is vulnerable to stresses from all over the body. We have even traced TMJ pain to a client's knee injury. In a single session, we balanced the knee and the TMJ pain spontaneously resolved. Now, years later, that client still has no jaw pain.
Contact Us To Learn How CranioSacral Therapy May Be Able To Help You
While these seven examples provide a helpful glimpse into the many different scenarios in which CranioSacral Therapy can be effective, they barely scratch the surface of all that CST truly has to offer. If you would like more information about how CranioSacral Therapy can help you with a specific issue, we hope you'll reach out to our CranioSacral Therapist in Central Missouri. We look forward to helping you on your journey!
 |
| Hands That Listen |
- Post by Bailey Puppel, Owner
Infinite Touch Integrative Therapies, LLC
www.InfiniteTouchLLC.com
Phone:
(573) 280-4470
(573) 480-7080
Hours:
8:00 AM - 7:00 PM Monday-Friday
by appointment only
Address:
110 Crossings E Drive, Suite 5
Lake Ozark, MO 65049
Like Us On Facebook!
No comments:
Post a Comment