Craniosacral Therapy

The human body is extraordinarily adaptable to changes within and around it.
In fact, we are constantly experiencing hundreds of complex internal changes
in order to achieve and maintain our balance. These occur within the central
nervous system, the muscles, the fascia and skeletal structures as well as our
internal organs and even emotionally our outlook and sense of well being.

It is due to our flexibility to respond to our environment that we are able to deal
with trauma. Trauma includes both emotional and physical events, such as
shock, bereavement after the death of a loved one, injury, infection and surgical
intervention. Our body naturally acts to avoid pain and will adapt to certain
positions in order to minimize, but not cure, emotional or physical pain. This
adaptation leaves us in a state of imbalance that if left uncorrected, will result in
greater pain and potentially more severe symptoms and disorders.

The structural changes due to trauma often result in decreased circulation. This
leads to diminished nervous system communication and decreased endocrine
and organ function. Where circulation between body systems is diminished it
becomes more difficult to carry nutrients and oxygen to the area. This results in
a lowered immune response and an increased amount of pain and discomfort as
well as atrophy and degeneration.

The cranial therapy practitioner works by addressing the manifesting symptom
and its underlying cause. The practitioner is trained to help resolve the trapped
forces that create the patterns of imbalance and disease. This involves the
practitioner utilizing their hands to listen to the body's subtle rhythms and to help
correct proper movement and function.

Numerous diagnosed complaints can be helped therapeutically with Cranial
Therapy. These may include disorders that involve chronic pain such as
migraines, arthritis, whiplash or sciatica. Cranial therapy can also help disorders
of the immune system, including recurrent infections and autoimmune disorders.
It is also helpful for any neurological or stress induced disorder including,
temporomandibular disorder, seizures, attention deficit disorder and depression.
Lastly, Cranial therapy can benefit less specific complaints such as nervousness,
fatigue, insomnia, indigestion, backache, etc.
Kathleen Pratt ND