Craniosacral Therapy (CST)

Craniosacral therapy (CST) is a light touch, non-invasive, whole body treatment technique developed by osteopathic physician John E. Upledger over 40 years ago. The roots of CST date back to over 100 years ago through the research and discovery done by osteopathic physician William Sutherland. CST is the release of restrictions within the craniosacral system, which is a central system within the body.

The craniosacral system is made up of the membranes and fluid that surround, protect, and nourish our central nervous system (the brain and spinal cord). There is a rhythm produced by the movement of this fluid, which is referred to as your craniosacral rhythm. The rhythm can be easily assessed by your therapist upon the application of a light manual pressure (only 5 grams of pressure engages this system, which is roughly the weight of a nickel) and it can be felt at any point on a person’s fully clothed body. Your therapist will assess the amplitude, symmetry, and quality of this rhythm and then perform CST treatment techniques to restore correct rhythm.

Restrictions within the craniosacral system can help identify and localize areas of dysfunction which could likely be attributing to pain or limitations. As asymmetry is eliminated and normal craniosacral rhythm is restored, the problem is often resolved, or has been facilitated into an unwinding process of being resolved.