Craniosacral Therapy is a very gentle, non-invasive hands-on approach that focuses on the craniosacral system of the body. This system consists of the membranes and cerebrospinal fluid that surround and protect the brain and spinal cord. It extends from the bones of the skull, face and mouth -- which make up the cranium -- down to the sacrum, or tailbone. Seldom does the therapist apply pressure, which exceeds 5 grams or the equivalent weight of a nickel.

This system has been effective in evaluating and treating problems associated with pain and dysfunction, lowered vitality, and recurring infections. The light touch employed in this approach encourages your own natural mechanisms to improve the functioning of your brain and spinal cord, to dissipate the negative effects of stress and to enhance your general health and resistance to disease.

Origins of the CranioSacral System In the early 1900's, Dr. William G. Sutherland first developed a system of examination and treatment for the bones of the skull, but because little was known about Sutherland's Cranial Osteopathy and because the results seemed miraculous, his work was discounted.

In 1970, Dr. John Upledger, an osteopathic physician and surgeon, observed the rhythmical movement of a membrane in the neck. This observation had to mean that a pressure inside the membrane sack was fluctuating.

Two years later, Dr. Upledger attended a seminar on Sutherland's ideas. He quickly understood how a hydraulic system might function inside of a membrane sack encased within the skull and spinal column.

In 1975, Dr. Upledger led a multidisciplinary research team that established the scientific basis for CranioSacral System.

For 20 years now, Dr. Upledger has been a chief proponent of using the CranioSacral body rhythm to evaluate and treat problems of pain and dysfunction.

The CranioSacral System is a physiological system named for the bones involved. Membranes attach to the bones of your head, which make up the "cranium", and extend down the spinal cord to the "sacrum". These membranes enclose a fluid called cerebrospinal fluid that circulates within this hydraulic system providing nutrients for your brain and spinal cord.

Acting like a semi-closed hydraulic system, pressures build within the CranioSacral System as the amount of cerebrospinal fluid increases. As the fluid moves, bathing the brain and the spinal cord, the membranes containing the fluid move, normally at a rate of 6 to 12 cycles per minute. The bones of the cranium and sacrum also move to allow for these fluctuations of fluid pressure.

If restrictions prevent this movement, pressures may be exerted on the soft tissue of the membranes, brain and spinal cord. An imbalance in the system can adversely affect the development and function of the brain and spinal cord that can result in sensory, motor and intellectual dysfunction.

Dr. Upledger also wrote the book Your Inner Physician and You. This book was designed for laypersons, explaining the discovery of the Craniosacral system.