What is CranioSacral Therapy?
CranioSacral Therapy (CST) is a gentle, non-invasive, manual therapy technique used to evaluate and treat body function. It utilizes a very light touch (seldom exceeding more than 5 grams of pressure over the bodies natural resistance) allowing the body to process treatments slowly and effectively. It has been found to facilitate overall health and function including improvement in motor coordination, developmental progress, autonomic function, sensory perception and neuromuscular function.
Sally Fryer is among our most talented and accomplished CranioSacral Therapists. Her results are outstanding and speak for her abilities.
- John Upledger,
The Upledger Institute
How does it work?
The CranioSacral system involves the cerebrospinal fluid contained within the membrane surrounding the brain and spinal cord. Just like the cardiovascular system, the CranioSacral system has its own rate and rhythm, and can be felt anywhere on the body. This is caused by the production and re-absorption of cerebrospinal fluid, which is producing a rise and fall of fluid pressure.
Therapists are trained to identify different characteristics within this system and note the changes within the rhythm, rate, amplitude and quality. Restrictions detected within this system can be felt within the connective tissues of the body, the bones of the head and sacrum and the membrane surrounding the brain and spinal cord. Dr. Upledger, who pioneered CranioSacral Therapy, found that a small bit of force over a long period of time over these areas can bring about lasting changes to the fascia and membrane systems of the body.
The effect of this is improvement of overall function of the central nervous system and promotion of the body's natural healing mechanisms. When done correctly, this technique often yields positive results with no negative side effects. Results may be seen in as few as 3-5 sessions, although more involved individuals may require more frequent or longer sessions. Typical treatment sessions last from 30 minutes to 1 1/2 hours.
CranioSacral therapy and physical therapy have changed our lives...
- Jennifer
Nolan is showing affections, talking more, and generally happier...
- Julie
Who developed the theory and treatment?
CST was researched and developed by osteopathic physician John E. Upledger, D.O., O.M.M., in the 1970's. It is based on the theories of William Sutherland, D.O. (in the early 1900's), Dr. Upledger's research and extensive clinical application at Michigan State University (1975-1983). The benefits have been confirmed by research and clinical work for over the past 20 years.
Currently there are over 50,000 Upledger-trained therapists worldwide. Training has made its way into mainstream settings and now includes medical doctors, dentists, physical therapists and occupational therapists.
IPT has a state-of-the-art CST program. Headed by two diplomat-certified therapists -- Sally Fryer, PT, CST-D and Suzanne Aderholt, MSOT, CST -- and highly-trained Upledger cranial therapists on their team. IPT offers individual and multiple hands-on treatments for infants through adults. Intensive one-week programs are offered in the summer as well as "Share Care" classes to learn basic techniques to use at home.