Craniosacral therapy was invented by John Upledger, an osteopathic physician. Craniosacral got its roots from cranial osteopathy. Craniosacral has been described as a form of pseudoscience.
Craniosacral therapy is a non-invasive, hands on therapy that aims to enhance the body’s own healing capabilities. Craniosacral is used to treat the central nervous system. This light touch affects the pressure and circulation of cerebrospinal fluid, which is the fluid around the brain and spinal cord. It is important to note there are no negative side effects and a patient cannot be harmed while receiving this treatment. This process aims to relieve pain and dysfunction.
Craniosacral is used to treat many things and a variety of disorders. Most people have seen benefits with autism, back pain, Alzheimer’s disease, brain injury, concussions, dementia, chronic fatigue, PTSD, and many other neurological disorders. In a 2010 study, people with fibromyalgia given craniosacral therapy treatment for twenty weeks felt measurably reduced pain. During another study, it became a theory the treatment can reduce anxiety and depression. It was also found Craniosacral has shown benefits for patients with multiple sclerosis including improving urinary tract concerns and specifically the emptying of the bladder.
On the mental health front, this treatment is highly recommended for reducing anxiety and depression. In fact, this treatment may help some people become more self-accepting. In doing so, some patients may experience a better social life, better problem-solving skills, and experience less stressful days at work. So, whether you are a person who struggles with anxiety and depression, an athlete recovering from injuries, or someone that wants to feel more at ease physically and mentally well, there may be appropriate applications for this modality. The key is finding a practitioner who offers this treatment with the proper training and certifications and has a solid track record of results.
Sources: The Biodynamic Craniosacral Therapy Association of North America (BCTA/NA), University of Minnesota.com, medicalnewstoday.com, Google
