what is cranial_osteopathy

What is Osteopathy?

Osteopathy is a hands-on treatment of the whole person which takes into consideration each individual`s anatomical, physiological and psychological make-up.It is a science in itself, a system of primary health care, of diagnosis and treatment.

The aim is the promote healthy functioning of the whole body by balancing and releasing all structural strains of bones, muscles, ligaments, fascia and organs within.

All Osteopaths follow the same basic principles:

1Structure governs Function:In other words, the structure of musculoskeletal systems needs to be in good balance and alignment in order for all the connected tissues and organs within to function properly.

2The Role of the Artery is Supreme:Here, Still wanted to tell us that circulation to all body parts is vital.Adequate circulation and drainage and therefore fluid exchange between all cells throughout the entire body is necessary for nutrition and oxygenation of all parts.If impeded, poor tissue quality, toxic and congestive states and eventually dis-ease occur.

3Self-Healing and Body as a Unit:The body has an inherent self-healing ability, given the right circumstances.It is essential of course to have adequate nutrition, exercise and peace of mind (and heart), to facilitate this inherent intelligence of the body.It is impossible to treat one body part only, without considering the unity of the whole person, mind, body and spirit.

Cranial Osteopathy

This is a specialised approach to osteopathy.There is another very subtle rhythm of movement, distinct from that of the pulse of the cardiovascular system or the respiratory rhythm, which is palpable through the entire body, as a type of contraction and expansion.??The membrane system underlying and attached to these bones, as the meninges within the cranium and continuing as the covering of the spinal cord to the sacrum..Within layers of these membranes flows the cerebro-spinal fluid (CSF), which bathes the central nervous system and according to Dr Still is the "highest knows element in man."

The work with the bones, membranes and fluid to release and balance restrictions and compressions through the cranium and whole body, in order to restore this "involuntary motion", thus allowing optimal function and vitality in the individual.

Cranial osteopathy is an extremely gentle form of treatment.The osteopath, having diagnosed a strain pattern through the body and having gained as clear a picture as possible of the person`s life, attempts to gently encourage release of the dysfunctional tissues, often via the membranes, ligaments or fascial systems of the body.He does this by releasing the tension in the above structures, which was depriving the area of optimum circulation.This in turn improves nutrition and drainage to the area concerned, which is vital to enable the body to return to normal functioning.Changes continue to occur long after the osteopath finishes the treatment and this is why patients are often asked to return of follow-u[ treatments no sooner than two or more weeks after the initial consultation.(This obviously depends on each individual`s problem, vitality etc.)

Problems which can be helped by Cranial Osteopathy:

Cranial Osteopaths treat the person, not the disease / symptoms.This means that any condition can be treated, using the principles discussed earlier.Because the cranial approach is so gentle and non-intrusive, it is safe and effective in the treatment of a wide range of complaints and in people of all ages, from the newborn to old age and is extremely effective in pregnancy.