In the last issue we explored the background of craniosacral therapy (CST), including its history and philosophy. We also gained a basic understanding of what craniosacral therapy is. In this issue I would like to talk about the therapeutic applications of this therapy as well as how it is complimented by aromatherapy.

One of the things I like best about CST is how widely beneficial it can be for all ages. I have the pleasure of working with newborns, children, adolescents, adults and the elderly. Like aromatherapy, CST is helpful for both physical conditions and emotional stresses. CST directly impacts the function of the central nervous system (brain and spinal cord). Because of this it can benefit a wide range of conditions including headaches, migraines, chronic pain, seizures, and learning disabilities. It also helps the body achieve optimal structural balance that can be helpful for low back pain, temporomandibular joint dysfunction (TMJ), hip, and knee pain.

Newborns and infants are some of my favorite clients. Birth, even in the best of circumstances, is challenging and demanding for both mother and child. If interventions such as forceps, vacuum extraction or c-section are used, the infant�s arrival is further challenged. I do not know of anyone that wishes to be welcomed into the world with a suction cup placed on their head exerting 40-60 pounds per square inch of force. Unfortunately circumstances can develop that lead to such interventions being used. Whether the infant has had an easy or difficult arrival, CST can help release soft tissue and bony restrictions that impede optimal function of the brain and nerves, as well as optimal flow of fluid to and from the brain and around and through the brain.

Soft tissue restriction patterns can affect overall structural alignment through the skeletal system and bones of the skull. Helping the bones of the skull release compression patterns and align properly, in addition to helping the dural membrane container of the brain regain its ease of movement, can be helpful for infants or children. These realignments can mitigate or resolve a variety of conditions including digestive difficulty, torticolis, seizures, and misshapen skull or ear infections. In the case of ear infections, compressed temporal bones (the bones that house the structures of the inner ear) create congestion and poor drainage through the ear tubes. Bacterial growth may result. Although compressed temporal bones are certainly not the only factor responsible for ear infections, in some situations, this technique is very helpful and I have seen it prevent the need for ear tubes.

CST also helps the infant make a smoother transition from the fluid environment in utero to the physical earth environment. Their energy becomes more grounded and present in their tissues, and positive changes in their developmental progress can occur as a result.

It is difficult to measure the effectiveness of any hands on technique in prevention of various situations. The more I learn about the brain and the impact of the surrounding structures on it, many others, and I believe that this work helps to optimize its function. If the body structures are balanced, then, according to the original principles of craniosacral therapy, the body is able to work in harmony and many of the symptoms that arise from disharmony and imbalance are minimized or eliminated.

Craniosacral therapy can also be very beneficial for people who have experienced physical and/or emotional trauma. This work helps people re-connect to their body in a safe and supportive environment. Trauma, whether emotional or physical, causes contraction in the tissues of the body. It also directly affects the nervous system and can, depending on the severity of the trauma and the coping resources available to the individual, overwhelm the system�s ability to digest and process the trauma. As a result the person can experience a wide variety of symptoms ranging from chronic muscle tension, inability to focus, headaches, jaw pain, insomnia, panic attacks, and a sense of disconnection from his or her body. CST helps the nervous system rebalance and discharge the energy of trauma. This helps people re-connect to their inner resources and experience a greater sense of well-being.

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