CRANIAL OSTEOPATHY

The name of this therapy is somewhat misleading, as it is a treatment system that encompasses the whole body, not just the head. It is based upon manipulation of the Involuntary Mechanism or Cranial Rhythmic Impulse (CRI), a wave-like fluctuation felt in a cycle of 6 – 14 times a minute anywhere in the body. This is thought to be produced by the cerebro-spinal fluid.

Cranial osteopathy aims to unravel the patterns and distortions the body has developed in responses to the stresses placed upon it. The treatment involves the therapist placing his or her hands most commonly on the head or along the spine; although work can be done from any point of the body. The touch is very gentle.

The osteopath feels the CRI and thus assesses what tissues are causing the presenting issues, which they then use as a fulcrum around which change can occur in the body. Usually the CRI fluctuation will settle to a feeling of stillness before then giving way to a stronger, fuller, healthier fluctuation.

Osteopaths, like acupuncturists, work on the body as a whole, so understand that damage in one area can be felt elsewhere. Hence a patient with headaches may receive a treatment on the lower back, as an old injury there may have created an effect through the spinal muscles on the head. Treating the original injury is essential to facilitate recovery.

Cranial osteopathy is often used in the treatment of babies and small children and is seen as being able to help ease the stresses/strains of delivery.

During a treatment, the patient is usually very relaxed. Sometimes memories of how a tissue was damaged are triggered when the tissues are released. This is comprehended as part of the healing process.