Different theories on how it works
Exactly how craniosacral therapy works is still being explored. Scientific research continues to investigate the existence of the craniosacral rhythm and to distinguish it from the heart or respiratory rate. Research to date has been inconclusive and further study is clearly necessary.

Dr. Sutherland described a palpable rhythmic movement within the body that occurs in the expansion and contraction of the bones of the skull as well as in every cell of the body. He considered this to be part of the Primary Respiratory Mechanism (PRM), the anatomical and physiological interrelationship between five parts of the body: the motion of the brain and spinal cord, the movement of the cerebrospinal fluid that bathes the brain and spinal cord, the mobility of the dura mater (the membrane that surrounds the brain and spinal cord), the mobility of the cranial bones, and the involuntary movement of the sacrum between the pelvic bones.

As a treatment form, practitioners believe that acting as a therapeutic presence they can detect the rhythm of the cerebrospinal fluid and through light touch correct the disruptions in its flow that they have sensed. The goal is seen as the restoration of optimal motion so that all parts of the body move within their normal range, thereby promoting good central nervous system function and the health of the body as a whole. Contact with the client’s system is negotiated via intention, touch, presence and a willingness to honor the inherent wisdom of the body’s systems.

Conditions it works best for
Although there have only been a small number of clinical trials to date on the effectiveness of cranial therapy for the treatment of specific illnesses, this technique has been widely used in clinical practice to address a variety of health conditions. One of the main focuses of clinical research in this area concentrates on attempting to prove that there is in fact a palpable craniosacral rhythm. Other clinical studies have examined the relation of disturbances in the craniosacral mechanism to certain symptomatology in newborns, development problems in children, and tension headaches.

Because cranial therapy relates to both the structure and function of the organism it has been used to treat imbalances of the neuroendocrine system, respiratory system, musculoskeletal system, and digestive system among others. Despite the lack of proven efficacy at this time, this technique is used for a variety of conditions, including trauma management, headaches, temporomandibular joint dysfunction, chronic fatigue syndrome, fibromyalgia, sports injuries, menstrual pain, pregnancy-related problems, and for increased well-being and positive health. It is contraindicated, however, in cases of aneurysm, intracranial hemorrhage, and other conditions where altering intracranial fluid pressure is not recommended.

Content last modified on Nov 24, 2009