CRANIOSACRAL

The Craniosacral System consists of membranes and cerebrospinal fluid that surround and protect the brain and spinal cord. It extends from the bones of the skull, which make up the cranium, down to the sacrum or tailbone area.

Traumatic brain injuries frequently cause changes in pressure around the brain, which affect the flow of cerebral spinal fluid in the skull and neck.

A COMPREHENSIVE APPROACH

Craniosacral Therapy is a comprehensive approach used to evaluate and improve the flow of cerebrospinal fluid.

HOW CRANIOSACREAL THERAPY WORKS

Using a light touch, craniosacral therapists monitor the rhythms of the craniosacral system to detect restrictions in the flow of cerebrospinal fluid.

Using gentle manual techniques, therapists release problem areas, relieving pressure on the brain and spinal cord.

VISCERAL MANIPULATION

Visceral manipulation is a gentle method of restoring proper movement and ligament tone to the internal organs. It helps circulation and reduces the nerve signals that are causing referred pain.

RESTORING MOVEMENT AND LIGAMENT TONE

Internal organs can get "sprained" too. They are supported by ligaments in the chest and abdomen. When they are thrown forward by inertia, then brought to an abrupt stop (as happens in a typical car accident), they can become injured and develop reduced circulation and function.

These dysfunctions don't usually result in acute pain. Generally, they create chronic, referred pain to the neck, shoulders, back and hips. These aches and tight spots typically send people to massage and chiropractic again and again with only temporary relief.

YOUR BODY'S NATURAL PROTECTION

Connective tissue called fascia weaves throughout your body, linking and supporting all your organs. Every change in tension also causes changes in the electrical conductivity of these tissues. This affects nerve signals.

The body's first priority is to protect the internal organs. It will tighten muscles and change your posture just to relieve the pressure around organs even if this means the spine and other muscle systems have to adopt uncomfortable positions.

Visceral manipulation is a gentle method of restoring proper movement and ligament tone to the internal organs. It helps circulation to the organs and reduces the nerve signals which are causing the referred pains. Often, chronic back problems clear up in one or two sessions of visceral manipulation. You may also find that chronic back pain areas become easy for your chiropractor to adjust and soon begin to heal and stabilize.

DR. RUSS KALEN AND NIELSEN RECOVERY GROUP

Dr. Kalen is an expert in the advanced techniques of Craniosacral Therapy and Visceral Manipulation. He graduated from Western States Chiropractic College in 1985 and studied advanced Craniosacral Therapy with the Upledger Institute. He now teaches these techniques through the Institute as well as lectures on their benefits and use. He is a member of The American Chiropractic Association, California Chiropractic Association, International Association of Healthcare Practitioners and The American Craniosacral Therapy Association. (See Dr. Kalen's website)

HISTORY OF CRANIOSACRAL THERAPY

Dr. John Upledger, an osteopathic physician, noted a rhythmic movement of the membrane (dura mater) covering the patient's brain and spinal cord in 1970 while assisting in surgery. His observations led to eight years of scientific studies at Michigan State University. Dr. Upledger founded the Upledger Institute in 1985 to educate healthcare professionals and the public about the benefits of Craniosacral Therapy.

Today, more than 50,000 practitioners, including medical doctors, dentists, nurses, physical therapists, occupational therapists, osteopaths, doctors of chiropractic, doctors of Oriental medicine, naturopathic physicians, psychiatric specialists, psychologists, acupuncturists, and massage therapists have been trained in the art and science of Craniosacral Therapy.

CRANIOSACRAL RESOURCES

CranioSacral Therapy--Touchstone for Natural Healing
by John E. Upledger, DO, OMM North Atlantic Books,
Berkeley, California and UI Enterprises,
Palm Beach Gardens, Florida