Cranial Sacral Physical Therapy

The human body is indeed a complicated organism. The cause-and-effect model for many common ailments and maladies has led to a vast number of treatment options available. While some methods are undoubtedly more beneficial than others, it proves wise to take a brief look at how unique types of physical therapy (Cranial Sacral Physical Therapy) can have a potentially remarkable impact on the health of a patient. One such belief system claims that an imbalance of cerebrospinal fluid can lead to a host of medical conditions within the body.

A Component of Physical Therapy

One treatment option that has gained significant attention in recent years is known as cranial sacral therapy. The main tenet of this treatment revolves around the supposition that an imbalance in the aforementioned cerebrospinal fluid can have a marked impact on the health of an individual. Indeed, such an incorrect distribution is claimed to be the root cause of conditions such as headaches, malaise, muscle pains and even fibromyalgia. Cranial sacral therapy said to be a powerful therapeutic tool in counteracting these ailments.

The Methodology Behind the Treatment

This type of therapy is quite different than traditional physical therapy; it involves only a light, circular touch around specific areas of the body. The practitioner will first focus in the joints of the skull; applying an amount of pressure roughly equal to that of a coin placed upon the head. The manipulation of the joints of the skull is thought to help reestablish a correct balance of the cerebrospinal fluid (CSF). Other areas of the body will also be frequently included in a treatment. Some of the primary regions treated can include:

A stated earlier, the ultimate goal is to establish a positive energy flow by redistributing the CSF evenly throughout the body.

Uses in Physical Therapy

There are many instances after an acute (or chronic) injury when traditional therapeutic methods may fail to alleviate pain. This can particularly be the case when nerve damage is involved (such as with sciatica). Alternative treatments such as cranial sacral therapy are seen by some to be a viable option. As these pains can be interpreted as a distortion of muscular tension, the release of this tension is surmised to relieve various and painful symptoms.

Notwithstanding physical injury or trauma, other conditions may benefit from the use of cranial sacral therapy. According to accredited practitioners, chronic fatigue syndrome, scoliosis, back problems and orthopaedic issues can be effectively treated. Still, the severity of the underlying condition will have a direct effect on the success of the treatment.

Purported Mechanisms

While the research into the effectiveness of this treatment is ongoing, many patients report sensations of deep relaxation, less pain and even a cessation of the condition immediately after a session. Some scientists feel that this may be due to a release of "feel good" hormones known as endorphins during the session itself. Others see a psychological component involved. Regardless of the root causes, thousands of patients have reported dramatic improvements in their conditions after undergoing this alternative form of therapy. As this is a relatively safe option in comparison to more invasive procedures, many individuals stand by the effectiveness of this interesting treatment.