and Sports Injury Clinic

Cranio Sacral Therapy

Cranio Sacral Therapy (C.S.T.) is a gentle, non-invasive manipulation technique. It is used as a method for evaluation and enhancement of the function of a physiological body system called the Cranio Sacral System - comprised of the membrane, and cerebraspinal fluid that surround and protect the brain and spinal cord. The craniosacral system is the very core of the body.

Like the pulse of the cardiovascular system the craniosacral system has a rhythm that can be felt throughout the body. Skilled practitioners can monitor this rhythm through light touch at key points over the body to detect imbalance or dysfunction. Once the source of the problem has been determined the natural movement of the fluid and related soft tissues can be assisted to help the body self correct.

The role of the craniosacral system in the development and performance of the brain and spinal cord is so vital that an imbalance or dysfunction in it can cause sensory, motor and/or cardiovascular problems.

Conditions that can be helped by C.S.T.

• Chronic symptoms that have not responded to other therapies especially head, neck or back injuries resulting from an accident, e.g. car crash, fall or sports injury.
• Migraine headaches.
• Birth trauma.
• Infant disorders - colic, autism, and learning disabilities.
• Stress and tension related problems.
• Temporomandibular Joint Dysfunction.
• Chronic fatigue.
• Fibromyalgia.

What to expect

The session takes place in a quiet relaxed setting, There is no need to remove clothing. The experiences during the sessions are individual to the patient and may differ from one session to the next. Deep relaxation or even sleep is common but others may feel the need to talk, recall memories or express emotions.

The practitioner may support the patients limb or spine to facilitate release of accumulated tension. This is called Energy Cyst Release or Tissue Release. During this release the patient may recall circumstances surrounding a past shock, trauma or injury. Releasing and experiencing in this way assists the body in reversing dysfunction and restoring mobility. This process is called Somato Emotional Release.

After the session there is generally a feeling of peace of wellbeing. You may feel a desire to sleep or experience a surge in energy. Reduction in pain may be immediate or happen slowly over a few days. Since CST helps the body in its naturali healing response improvement will usually continue for several weeks. For some there may be temporary pain as the body reorganises itself and adapts to the release of previously held patterns. There is a feeling of vitality, clarity of mind and purpose and the ability to relax better.