Craniosacral Therapy

What is Craniosacral Therapy?

Craniosacral Therapy is a gentle, hands-on method of evaluating and enhancing the functioning of a physiological body system called the craniosacral system - comprised of the membranes and cerebrospinal fluid that surround and protect the brain and spinal cord. Using a soft touch generally no greater than 5 grams, or about the weight of a nickel, practitioners release restrictions in the craniosacral system to improve the functioning of the central nervous system. By complementing the body's natural healing processes, CST is increasingly used as a preventive health measure for its ability to bolster resistance to disease, and is effective for a wide range of medical problems associated with pain and dysfunction.

How does CranioSacral Therapy work?

Craniosacral Therapy works by helping the body's natural healing mechanisms dissipate the negative effects of stress on the central nervous system. This is accomplished through utilizing a physiological body system called the craniosacral system, which maintains the  environment in which the central nervous system functions. It consists of the membranes and cerebrospinal fluid that surround and protect the brain and spinal cord, extending from the bones of the skull, face and mouth (which make up the cranium) down to the tailbone area (or sacrum). The role of this 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 neurological disabilities. Like the pulse of the cardiovascular system, the craniosacral system has a rhythm that can be felt throughout the body. Using a touch generally no heavier than the weight of a nickel, skilled practitioners can monitor this rhythm at key body points to pinpoint the source of an obstruction or stress. Once a source has been determined, they can assist the natural movement of the fluid and related soft tissue to help the body self-correct. This simple action is often all it takes to remove a restriction. Other times, CST may be combined with other complementary therapies to help restore the body to its optimum functioning level.

Is there any condition for which CST shouldn't be used?

There are certain situations where application of CST would not be recommended. These include conditions where a variation and/or slight increase in intracranial pressure would cause instability. Acute aneurysm, cerebral hemorrhage or other pre-existing severe bleeding disorders are examples of conditions that could be affected by small intercranial pressure changes.

What to Expect during a Craniosacral Therapy session:

During a Craniosacral session, your practitioner will probably spend most of his or her time working on the head and/or the sacrum, using gentle touch & light pressure. It is common for people to doze off or at least appear to sleep during portions of craniosacral sessions. There are probably times when a deep, perhaps meditative state of consciousness is contacted, or when the mind needs to get out of the way to allow the system to reorganize in some profound way. Sometimes your practitioner may ask you occasional questions about what you are sensing in your body, to assist the processing. Other times we will let you rest, appreciating that most healing takes place in deep sleep or deep relaxation.

How many sessions will I need?

This depends partly on what your goals are, what symptoms you suffer from, and how easily your system responds to treatment. As a general rule, three to ten sessions will make a significant impact on most people's health, and in some cases only one session can make a dramatic difference. Others receive regular treatment for longer periods of time, followed by an occasional tune-up to maintain health. Hands-on evaluation by an experienced practitioner may give you a more precise answer to this question.

Cindy Dudgeon, Lic. Ac., CST is a licensed acupuncturist with a Master's degree in acupuncture from New England School of Acupuncture. She carries a Diplomate in Acupuncture and is also a Certified Craniosacral Therapist. Cindy often combines both modalities in treating her patients. She uses her training to treat a wide variety of ailments, with a special interest in women's issues. She is trained in both Chinese and Japanese styles of acupuncture, as well as non-insertive techniques.

Please call Cindy at 978-729-2399 to make an appointment for Acupuncture and/or Cranial Sacral Therapy. Email address is thewellbeingacupuncture@yahoo.com