DR. BRIDGET GRUSECKI
NATUROPATHIC MEDICINE
livethemedicine@gmail.com (707) 332-9696
What is Craniosacral Therapy?
Craniosacral therapy (CST) is an osteopathic technique developed in the early 1900’s. It is based on the
philosophy that the body is an interconnected unit, that form and function are interrelated, and that the body
is a self-correcting organism, when given the appropriate support. Cranio-Sacral therapy was born through
the observation of a rhythmic motion in the cranial bones and in the dura mater, the outer membrane along
the spinal cord and brain. The technqiue of CST involves active listening to movement within the
fascial system, assessing restrictions in its rhythmic motion, and gently encouraging release.
What is the Craniosacral Rhythm (CSR)?
Through advanced physiological investigation, objective research and extensive clinical observation,
several theories surrounding the CSR have been developed. At minimum, the CSR is generated by the
movement of cerebral spinal fluid into and out of the dural system. Additionally, the CSR has been
described as the integration or harmonization of oscillators, a union of different rhythms and pulsations,
including the cerebral spinal fluid as well as the cardiac pulse, pulsations from metabolic and support cells
in the nervous system, and various other internal electrical fields.
The cranio-sacral rhythm (CSR) is apparent throughout the body within the fascial system, which encases
virtually every functional unit of the body, forming a transparent network that descends into smaller and
smaller fibers down to the individual cell.
What is a Craniosacral Restriction?
Essentially, a restriction is a holding in the tissues, which contains memory and/or biochemical materials,
such as scar tissue or stagnant metabolic waste. Restrictions affect the movement and functioning of
those tissues, and can be detected by disturbances in the CSR.
There are many causes of restrictions. Physical traumas (including injuries, surgeries, and traumatic
birthing) contribute to restrictions, as well as postural patterns and overuse. Emotional challenges, mental
patterning and overburdened stress responses also contribute to restrictions. Additional causes include
inadequate nutrition or toxic burdens, which affect cellular metabolism and tissue fluidity.
What are the benefits Craniosacral Therapy?
By restoring movement to restricted areas, CST can be beneficial for maximizing overall health, and
optimizing the functioning of tissues. CST promotes more efficient and flexible patterns- physically,
mentally, and emotionally- ultimately supporting the body’s innate ability to heal.
Below is a partial list of conditions that may especially benefit from CST:
- Fatigue, including chronic fatigue syndrome
- Anxiety, depression, hyperactivity, other behavioral or mood issues
- Migraines or tension headaches
- Musculoskeletal complaints, injuries, scoliosis, sciatica, disc herniation, TMJ syndrome
- Arthritis and other rheumatic diseases, fibromyalgia, chronic pain
- Post-operative recovery
- Allergies, chronic rhinitis, sinusitis or otitis
- Nervous system disorders
- Endocrine imbalances
References
1. Chaitow, Leon. Cranial Manipulation Theory and Practice. Osseous and Soft Tissue
Approaches. Churchill Livingston: New York, NY. 1999.
2. Christensen, Faith, ND, RN and Masahiro Takakura ND, LAc, DC. An Integrative Approach to
Craniosacral Therapy: Fascial Connection. Vital Integrative Systems. 3rd Edition. 2006