CranioSacral Therapy (CST) is a gentle, manual therapy developed by osteopathic physician John E. Upledger that facilitates release of held restrictions in the entire body, with particular attention to the craniosacral system. By improving mobility of this system and other tissues and fluids of the body, CST assists the body's natural ability to normalize itself and achieve greater health.

What is the craniosacral system?

The craniosacral system has great influence over, and is interconnected with, all other body systems. This core system is comprised of the membranes that surround the brain and spinal cord and contains the cerebrospinal fluid that nourishes and protects these critical structures.

The membranes line the inner surfaces of the bones that form the cranium, then extend as a tube down through the spinal column to attach to the sacrum, thus allowing the bones to be used as handles to affect the soft tissues of the system.

The circulation of the cerebrospinal fluid in the system produces a rhythmic motion that can be palpated throughout the entire body, and is used for evaluation and treatment during a CST session.

What is a CranioSacral Therapist?

CranioSacral Therapists are licensed health professionals trained to palpate the subtle rhythms and movements of the craniosacral system, and other body systems, to locate areas where mobility is limited. By evaluating this way, the origin of dysfunction can be discovered. They use gentle CST techniques to mobilize the craniosacral system and facilitate release of identified physical, energetic and emotional restrictions in the body. Our therapists are all Diplomate certified by the Upledger Institute, which is the highest level of certification available at this time.

How can CST help me?

Because of its gentle nature and positive effects on all of the body systems, CST can be helpful in a large variety of conditions and situations and can be used for people of all ages. CST can be part of a wellness or preventative health care program and can be part of a medical treatment program.

Examples of conditions that have improved with the use of CST include, but are not limited to: 

* Migraines and headaches
* Back and neck pain
* Neurological disorders
* Immune system disorders
* Autism
* Learning disabilities
* Chronic pain conditions
* Post Traumatic Stress Disorder
* Pre-surgical preparation
* Post-surgical recovery
* Orthopedic trauma and dysfunction
* Stress related disorders

If your specific situation is not addressed above or if you want to know more about CST, please contact us.