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One of most gentle treatment modalities around, cranio-sacral therapy effects movement of the skull bones and sacrum. This movement is unperceivable by the human eye. The skull (cranium) is made up of 21 closely-knit bones that allow for an expansion and contraction of the brain and fluids. (See Cr 1)
The pumping action within the brain circulates nourishing fluid throughout the brain as well as around the spinal cord. (See Cr 2, 3)
Although the cerebrospinal fluid doesn't circulate beyond the brain and spinal cord an energetic wave is transmitted into the limbs and there can be felt as a rotational wave of movement. The amplitude of the cranial wave is reportedly 25 microns (half the thickness of a sheet of writing paper). In a healthy person there are 8-14 cycles per minute. When a person has a fever or consumes considerable caffeine, the frequency is increased. During meditation the cranial motion slows and can become synchronous with the breath. Enhancing one's breath will stimulate/regulate one's cranial wave.
The cranium and its membranes move in rhythm with the sacrum located at the end of the spine, hence the name "cranio-sacral". (See Cr 4)
Injury and dysfunction usually diminish the cranio-sacral movement. Following compressive head injuries, strokes or a lumbar puncture, cranial motion can stop. Head trauma, stroke, birth injuries and encephalitis all can cause restrictions of movement within the brain and in the skull. This can result in asymmetrical structural changes throughout the whole body.
Many people seek cranio-sacral treatment following dental work because the pressure, pulling and force of dental work can cause a cranial misalignment. Poor dental occlusion can cause structural imbalances in the cranium via the jaw. Temporomandibular joint (TMJ: the joint of the jaw), and dental occlusion problems are best addressed by a dentist who is familiar with a cranio-sacral approach.
Spinal misalignment and limb problems eventually cause misalignment of the cranial bones and pelvis. Cranio-sacral therapy works to help correct structural and neuromuscular imbalances as well as improve overall health and vitality.
Treatment techniques include gentle hand placement on the various skull bones and sacrum. Treatment can include work on teeth and bones inside the mouth with a gloved hand. Ideally a minimum of pressure (5 grams) is used to gently restore normal movement and position of bones. Find out more about cranio-sacral therapy at: www.craniosacral.com
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The information provided should not be used during any medical emergency or for the diagnosis or treatment of any medical condition. A licensed physician should be consulted for diagnosis and treatment of any and all medical conditions. Call 911 for all medical emergencies. Movementwise makes no representation or warranty regarding the accuracy, reliability, completeness, currentness, or timeliness of the content, text or graphics. Links to other sites are provided for information only - they do not constitute endorsements of those other sites. Any duplication or distribution of the information contained herein is strictly prohibited. Copyright 2006-2011
MovementWise Christine Inserra P.T.
Certified Teacher of the Alexander Technique & Feldenkrais Method
Physical Therapy serving Chicago and the Greater Chicagoland Area
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