Craniosacral therapy (CST) is an osteopathic treatment developed by Dr. William G. Sutherland and has been used in the osteopathic community since the 1990s. One of the core principles is recognizing that there is an inherent movement between the brain and the sacrum, connected through the spinal cord, that affects the nervous, lymph, myofascial, and GI systems. This movement can be disrupted by physical and emotional stressors, causing restrictions in the cranium and sacrum. Through gentle palpation, the practitioner identifies and releases these restrictions to allow the body to initiate its own healing process.
Unlike other myofascial modalities, the patient is fully clothed during a treatment. Loose and comfortable clothing is recommended. The practitioner will evaluate areas of restriction by lightly placing their hands on various body regions. If a restriction is found, the patient will feel subtle movements on the skin in an attempt to mobilize the fascia and connective tissue underneath. Most people will experience a deep sense of relaxation during this therapy. Some people have reported a flowing, heat, or expanding sensation in the body as well. These are signs of release and often can assist individuals to be more in touch with themselves. Each treatment may last between 30-45 minutes.
Craniosacral therapy is great on its own or as an adjunctive treatment for various health conditions, including but not limited to: headache, concussion, whiplash, TMJ dysfunction, anxiety, depression, insomnia, sinusitis, joint pain, myofascial tension, etc.
Dr. Yang practices craniosacral therapy developed by Dr. Masahiro Takakura, ND, LAc, Ph.D., and Dr. Faith Christenson, ND, RN. The text above is modified from their book, “An Integrative Approach to Craniosacral Therapy: Fascial Connection” published in 2012.