Craniosacral Therapy
Craniosacral therapy is a gentle method of detection and correction that encourages your own natural healing mechanisms to dissipate the negative effects of stress on your central nervous system. It is believed that one can also benefit from better overall health and resistance to disease.
The craniosacral 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 that make up the cranium to the sacrum (i.e., the tailbone area).
Since this vital system influences the development and performance of the brain and spinal cord, an imbalance or restriction in it could potentially cause any number of sensory, motor or neurological disabilities. These problems could include chronic pain, eye difficulties, scoliosis, motor-coordination impairments, learning disabilities, developmental disabilities and other health challenges.
Who Benefits from Craniosacral Therapy?
Craniosacral therapy strengthens a body’s ability to take better care of itself. It can help individuals cope with a range of illnesses, pain and dysfunction, including:
Migraines and headaches
Chronic neck and back pain
Motor-coordination impairments
Stress and tension-related problems
Infantile disorders
Traumatic brain and spinal cord injuries
Chronic fatigue
Alternative treatment for scoliosis
Central nervous system disorders
Emotional difficulties
Temporomandibular joint (TMJ) syndrome
Learning disabilities
Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD)
Posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD)
Orthopedic problems
Our Approach to Craniosacral Therapy
Rick Halle-Podell, a licensed massage therapist and founder of Massage Therapy of Oak Park, has advanced training in craniosacral therapy and somatoemotional release from the Upledger Institute.
Craniosacral therapy is performed on a person who is fully clothed. Using a light touch, we will monitor the rhythm of the craniosacral system to detect potential restrictions and imbalances. Our therapists then use manual techniques to release those problem areas and relieve pressure on the brain and spinal cord.
A craniosacral session at Massage Therapy of Oak Park can last from about 15 minutes to more than an hour. It can be used alone or in conjunction with other therapeutic procedures. Our intended result? A central nervous system free of restrictions and a body that’s able to return to its greatest levels of performance.