My journey in craniosacral therapy…..

Early in my career as an occupational therapist, I had the privilege and challenge of working with people who had experienced traumatic brain injuries in Canton MI. Each person presented with multiple symptoms and complaints including pain, cognitive impairments, movement disorders, sensory deficits, and behavior problems.  The traditional therapy approach addressed some of these problems, but what remained could only be described as a disconnect in the vitality of the individual.

To explain further, we should delve into what happens to our nervous system when we deal with stress or injuries. When our body suffers injury or stress to the central nervous system (brain and spinal cord), it causes tension around these structures.  This tension impacts the healthy performance of the central nervous system and potentially every other system it interacts with. My search for a treatment modality that would reduce these internal pressures and improve the health and vitality of my clients led me to craniosacral therapy.

The brain and spinal cord are protected by membranes (coverings) and nourished by the cerebrospinal fluid that is flowing between the membrane layers.  The premise of craniosacral therapy treatment is rooted in the works of osteopathic physicians Dr. William Sutherland (early 1900’s) and Dr. John Upledger (1970’s).  They found that within the craniosacral system, there is a small degree of rhythmic movement between the sutures of the cranial bones, and this motion responds to fluctuations of the cerebrospinal fluid circulation. When an individual experiences injury, trauma or repetitive stresses in the body, Dr. Upledger discovered that the craniosacral rhythm is interrupted, and the healthy performance of the central nervous system is compromised.

Craniosacral Therapy in Canton MI

Craniosacral therapy in Canton MI uses a gentle hands-on technique to normalize the cranial rhythm and to release bone and membrane restrictions. Gentle manipulation and traction of the bones of the cranium and sacrum help reach the deeper layers of the cerebrospinal fluid and membrane coverings.  When the craniosacral rhythm improves and the cerebral spinal fluid moves freely, the body’s natural healing responses can function.  Reduced tension in the central nervous system can result in decreased tightness and pain in other systems of the body.

After completing my coursework, I took my new skills to clients whose diagnoses ranged from mild to severe head injuries.  Following these treatments, I witnessed a reduction in the complaints of pain, greater ease in moving individuals who were unable to initiate steps on their own, decreased agitation, and improved attention.  I continued to refine and practice these skills with friends and family (relatively healthy individuals). To my surprise, I received reports of deep relaxation, improved sleep patterns, reduced headaches, decreased anxiety, and muscle tension, and increased concentration and memory.  Recently, a client reported that during her craniosacral treatment session, she was wearing her Fitbit.  Later that day, she looked at her activity and found that her heart rate and sleep/wake graph during her session were similar to the rate that occurs during her deep sleep, even though she was awake during the entire session.

Do you experience headaches, chronic fatigue, pain, stress, anxiety, or memory problems?  Do you have a history of a concussion, neurological problem, repeated strain patterns, whiplash injury, or TMJ disorder?  Craniosacral therapy in Canton MI may be an important treatment adjunct to supporting a healthy central nervous system and your overall well-being. At Still Point Massage, we have a number of therapists trained in these specialized techniques. Call today to schedule your craniosacral treatment.

Nancy Gibson, LMT