The Fulcrum of Change
Dr. Sutherland developed many valuable and unique therapies. They include specialized therapies for the cranium (the bones of the head and face) and sacrum (a triangular shaped portion of the spine which is situated between the pelvic bones). Craniosacral therapy draws its name from this. Treatment however, is not limited to the cranium and sacrum. Though there is usually a special focus on the problem areas. Any area of the body may be treated. Traditional Craniosacral therapy employs allied therapies which include: soft tissue massage, acupressure, myofascial release and Chiropractic adjustments. During the administration of therapy, the doctor maintains a high level of sensitivity to the patient. The hand that administers therapy is the same one that evaluates the patient’s response to therapy. Each site of tension (or restriction) tightens, twists or distorts the muscles, fascia and joints in a unique manner. The doctor’s hands follow these twists and turns, easing in, like a key slipping into a lock. With the proper hand position, body position, and the right amount of pressure on the tissues, the hands provide a fulcrum for change. The goal is to open and free areas of restriction, allowing the body to heal itself. Unlocking the tension is done by the innate healing force within each person. Tissues that are twisted, tight and convoluted begin to unwind and tension is released. Just as anatomical shapes affect the character of the craniosacral pulse, the unique presentation of restriction in each patient affects the character of the therapeutic application. The doctor reads the craniosacral pulse for clues: “How does the innate healing ability want to release this tension?” and places his hands accordingly. The body can be an intricate web of restrictions, or it can efficiently deal with muscular tension and stress. Craniosacral Chiropractic is a valuable tool for relieving tension, chronic and acute pain and promoting health. The first visit is an hour. Follow up treatments take about half an hour. The number of treatments depends upon the nature of the patient’s injury or chronic condition. Relief of pain and improvement of symptoms are usually seen on the first visit. To speed healing and decrease a patient’s dependence on treatment, recommendations for exercise and stretching are frequently given. Patients are encouraged to be active participants in the process of their own recovery. After specific problems have been corrected, many patients continue on with periodic visits to help maintain optimum health.