Dr. Smith uses Craniosacral as a stand alone treatment or as part of a larger approach to care depending on the situation. Likely scenarios for use are TMJD, muscle tension headaches, migraines, and sacral pain. This type of care is both gentle and effective. If you are seeking Craniosacral in Placitas or the surrounding areas of Bernalillo, Rio Rancho, Abq, or Santa Fe call or schedule online.
Craniosacral Therapy | Abq
Background
CranioSacral Therapy (CST) is a gentle, hands-on approach that releases tensions deep in the body. It relieves pain and dysfunction and improves whole-body health and performance. Osteopathic Physician John E. Upledger pioneered this method after years of clinical testing and research at Michigan State University where he served as professor of Biomechanics.
Cranial Therapy uses a soft touch which is generally no greater than 5 grams – about the weight of a nickel. With this gentle pressure, practitioners release restrictions in the soft tissues that surround the central nervous system. CST is increasingly used as a preventive health measure for its ability to bolster resistance to disease, and it is effective for a wide range of medical problems associated with pain and dysfunction.
We incorporate CST into many of our chiropractic and therapeutic massage techniques as it is relevant to so many conditions.
Benefits of Treatment
Few structures have as much influence over the body’s ability to function properly as the brain and spinal cord that make up the central nervous system. The craniosacral system influences the central nervous system through the membranes and fluid that surround, protect and nourish the brain and spinal cord.
Every day your body endures stresses and strains for which it must compensate. Unfortunately, these stresses often cause body tissues to tighten and distort the craniosacral system. These distortions can then cause tension to form around the brain and spinal cord resulting in restrictions. This creates a barrier to the healthy performance of the central nervous system, and potentially every other system it interacts with.
Fortunately, such restrictions can be detected and corrected using simple methods of touch. With a light touch, the CST practitioner uses his or her hands to evaluate the craniosacral system by gently feeling various locations of the body to test for the ease of motion and rhythm of the cerebrospinal fluid pulsing around the brain and spinal cord. Soft-touch techniques are then used to release restrictions in any tissues influencing the craniosacral system.
What to Expect in a Craniosacral Session
Craniosacral therapy (CST) might sound like a fancy spa treatment, but it’s a gentle, hands-on therapy that delves deeper than just muscle relaxation. It focuses on the craniosacral system, a network of membranes and cerebrospinal fluid that surrounds and protects your brain and spinal cord. Think of it as the body’s inner rhythm section, influencing everything from your nervous system to your immune function.
So, what happens during a CST session?
Unlike traditional massage, CST is a much subtler experience. The practitioner uses light touches, no heavier than a nickel, to palpate your craniosacral system. They’re not trying to manipulate or force anything, but rather listening to the subtle fluctuations in your cerebrospinal fluid rhythm. Think of it as tuning into your body’s inner symphony.
What are they listening for?
The practitioner is looking for any restrictions or imbalances in the flow of your cerebrospinal fluid. These restrictions can manifest as physical pain, headaches, digestive issues, or even emotional tension. By gently guiding the release of these restrictions, the practitioner aims to restore balance and harmony to your craniosacral system.
What can you expect to feel?
Most people find CST to be deeply relaxing. You might feel a sense of stillness or quietude, or even a gentle pulsing sensation as your cerebrospinal fluid rhythm is released. Some people experience emotional release, as stored tension is gently unraveled.
Is it right for you?
CST is a safe and effective therapy for people of all ages, from infants to seniors. It can be helpful for a wide range of conditions, including:
- Headaches and migraines
- Neck and back pain
- TMJ
- Chronic fatigue
- Stress and anxiety
- Sleep problems
- Digestive issues
If you’re curious about exploring a holistic approach to your health and well-being, CST is definitely worth considering. Just remember, it’s not a quick fix. It’s a journey of listening to your body’s inner wisdom and gently guiding it back to balance.