Integrative Cranial Work

Just as the spine houses the spinal cord, the skull houses the brain. Our skulls are comprised of many small bones which we used to think were fused in adults, but more recent research has shown that they actually maintain a few millimeters of movement - not much, but very important!

The brain and spinal cord are floating in a clear liquid called CerebroSpinal Fluid (CSF), which circulates to deliver nutrients and remove metabolic waste from the neurons and support cells of the Central Nervous System. As CSF is produced deep inside the brain, the skull expands slightly, and as it flows into the spinal column the skull bones return to their original position.

When the sutures between bones become restricted, CSF flow can become turbulent, and tensile stress is distributed throughout the interconnected craniosacral system (that is, between the skull aka cranium and the sacrum which is the pelvic end of the CSF pumping mechanism). To understand this a bit better, it may help to know that there is a protective sheet of fibrous tissue (similar to strong fabric) which lines the skull and spinal column called the dura mater (it means "tough mother"). Biomechanical or fluid dynamic distortions anywhere in the craniosacral system (skull + spine) can create disturbances through the entire system (just like if you tug at the corner of a blanket the entire blanket gets wrinkled). This means added stress on the brain and spinal cord, and this stress compromises the body's ability to process and respond to the surrounding environment.

As the control center of the body, the central nervous system influences every other major body system and function. Because of the impact on central nervous system function, integrative cranial work can help improve neurologic function in a variety of situations, including but not limited to:

chronic ear infections
colic, extended fussiness
ADD/ADHD
abnormal muscle tone
strabismus, nystagmus, and other disorders
cerebral palsy, erb's palsy
torticollis and plagiocephaly
austism spectrum and sensory processing disorders

nursing difficulties
speech disorders
down syndrome and genetic disorders
hearing problems
learning disabilities, dyslexia
failure-to-thrive syndrome
incoordination / clumsiness

reflux and digestive distress
abnormal muscle tone
seizures
trouble sleeping
hydrocephalus
emotional challenges
impaired immune system

We use a comprehensive integrative approach to restore balance in the craniosacral system, drawing upon CranioSaral Therapy, SacroOccipital Technique, Logan Basic Technique, and respiratory assisted adjustments. For optimum results, Dr. Sardonicus' unique combination of cranial and spinal work allows for a balancing of the entire cranium and spinal column thus facilitating optimum central nervous system function. By supporting the central nervous system and releasing restrictions throughout the body, craniosacral balancing has shown to bring about profound healing. And becasue its so gentle, non-invasive, and virtually risk-free, children of all ages can benefit from this essential therapy.

The initial session includes time to assess your challenges and perform differential diagnostic procedures to determine how best to care for each individual, as well as getting started with therapeutic work. Recommendations will be made for home care as well as any other referrals which may be appropriate to help restore 100% function as quickly as possible.

Benefits of Early Intervention

Even in an uncomplicated birth, a baby's head and neck are subjected to quite a bit of force! It's widely recognized that in certain instances, the birth process can generate mild to severe nervous system abnormalities. So it's a good idea to include a cranial and spinal checkup within the first few days of life. Imbalances from abnormal fetal positioning in utero and from birth trauma addressed early on can potentially reduce a wide spectrum of health challenges, many of which might not otherwise become apparent until the child is in school. It can even address problems with head shape and skull bone override, naturally.

Because of the essential cranial shaping that occurs when a baby passes through the birth canal, it is strongly recommended that infants delivered by cesarean section receive craniosacral manual therapy as early as possible after delivery.

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