by David Frome, PT, LAc.
What is Craniosacral Therapy?
Craniosacral Therapy (CST) , a complicated-sounding term, is simply a type of bodywork. CST relieves muscle and joint tightness around the bones of the head, sacrum (triangular bone in the lower back), and spinal column, with gentle pressure. CST relieves stress and pain caused by musculoskeletal tightness. This approach helps regulate the central nervous system (CNS) by using light touch. Craniosacral Therapy releases tension and restrictions in the dura (fascia/connective tissue covering that surround the brain and spinal cord).
CST and the Central Nervous System (CNS)
Imagine the CNS as the command center of the body. CST helps regulate the nervous system through subtle pressure, releasing restrictions in the dura surrounding both brain and spinal cord. This improves the movement of the cerebrospinal fluid as it flows through the CNS, helping to regulate the autonomic nervous system (ANS). Further, CST has also been shown to promote deep relaxation, resulting in lower blood pressure and heart rate, aiding in the treatment of heart disease. So, how exactly does CST foster heart health?
CST fosters heart health by:
- Reducing the stress hormones – Both corticotropin-releasing hormone and cortisol are associated with cardiac strain when chronically elevated. Patients treated with CST have been shown to have reduced levels of the stress hormones.
- Improving parasympathetic function, which helps the body to rest and recover. As the body relaxes, both stress hormones and stress levels drop.
- Improving heart rate variability. Heart rate variability indicates that the body is making important changes, effectively adapting to stress, exercise, and rest. Heart rate variability is a sign of ANS health.
- Regulating Blood Pressure – The ANS is responsible for regulation of systolic blood pressure. CST can be very effective in regulation of both the ANS and blood pressure.
- Helping manage cardiac arrhythmias, including tachycardia, bradycardia, and palpitation.
- Improving lymphatic drainage and decreasing brain inflammation after a stroke.
- Relieving the chest pain associated with angina by improving blood circulation and reducing overall physical tension.
Cardiac health – A challenge with history
According to the CDC, heart disease has remained the leading cause of death in the U.S. over the past 100 years. Our overall health is dependent upon the management and prevention of coronary artery disease, strokes, heart attacks, elevated blood pressure, and congestive heart failure.
Is Craniosacral Therapy right for you?
Many people are surprised to learn how Cranial Sacral Therapy enriches heart health. It is a powerful therapy for a myriad of physical and mental issues. David Frome invites you to schedule an appointment to explore how CST can make an impact on your health. Call him for a telephone consultation to see if you can benefit from an appointment.
Rebekah and David Frome practice acupuncture, Rolfing, and Craniosacral Therapy at Frome Physical Therapies in Loch Arbour, NJ. To learn more and schedule an appointment, visit or contact us at www.fromept.com or (973) 509-8464.
The contents of this article are not meant to be diagnostic or prescriptive. Health problems are often complex. Please consult your physician before choosing a course of treatment.