Known for being a gentle and holistic approach to osteopathic treatment, cranial osteopathy has grown in popularity as many people have discovered that it has been a great way to treat a range of conditions. These include conditions such as regular headaches and migraines, which, for those who suffer from them, can be debilitating.
If you’ve ever wondered what cranial osteopathy is, this guide explains everything you need to know. We will cover what cranial osteopathy is and how it works, among other things.
What Is Cranial Osteopathy?
Cranial osteopathy is a subtle, hands-on approach to osteopathy that uses light touch to detect and release restrictions in the body’s fascial network and nervous system. It is part of the osteopathy group of treatments, focusing mainly on the head, but it can trigger releases of stress and tension in other parts of the body. Specially trained osteopaths will assess the body for subtle rhythms that trigger releases for the patient.
Many patients describe the treatment as relaxing and warming, while others state they feel very little during the treatment, but feel vast improvements over the following days.
How Does Cranial Osteopathy Work?
The core principles of cranial osteopathy are based on the professional osteopath’s ability to identify a range of things through gentle touch. They first detect the rhythms of the body, namely the cranial rhythm (Involuntary Motion), which is the subtle pulsations in the body’s tissues linked to breathing, heartbeat, and fluid movement.
From this detection, they then look for dysfunction in the rhythm, which will be identified as the stress, tension or past injury that is causing the patient their issues.
After this, the practitioner will apply very light, supportive, and indirect pressure to the head, spine, and sacrum. All to release tension. This release of tension and lifting of restriction promotes self-healing, allowing the body to balance its nervous system. This is the knock-on effect that helps with symptoms such as headaches and migraines.
What Is Cranial Osteopathy Used For?
For those who don’t know too much about it, you may be wondering what cranial osteopathy is used for. Well, it can be used to treat a range of symptoms and conditions, with patients visiting us here at The Orchard Clinic for different reasons. Some common conditions and symptoms our patients book cranial osteopathy include:
- Stress and tension
- Headaches and migraines
- Neck or back discomfort
- Postural strain
- Sinus issues
- Sleep disturbances
- General well-being support
Many of our patients state an improvement in their symptoms as a result of our cranial osteopathy treatment. For those who have suffered with any of these issues, the release can feel significant.
Benefits of Cranial Osteopathy
There are several well-established benefits of cranial osteopathy. These are a few of the reasons our patients trust us here at The Orchard Clinic to deliver effective cranial osteopathy.
Reducing Muscle Tension
One of the main reasons patients will seek out cranial osteopathy is the release of tension within their muscles. The feeling of tightness across the body can cause many issues, including reduced mobility, but also headaches and other pains. Effective cranial osteopathy will relieve the patient of this tension.
Supporting Relaxation
Many of our patients mention feeling incredibly relaxed after treatment. This is partially due to the calm and peaceful nature of our clinic, but mainly due to the effects of cranial osteopathy.
Improving Mobility and Fluid Motion
As this form of osteopathy focuses on releasing tension and stress in muscles all around the body, one benefit of cranial osteopathy is the new range of mobility that is achievable. If previously a patient was unable to move a part of their body without encountering pain, this treatment could give them a new lease of life.
Encouraging Balance Within the Nervous System
The holistic approach to treating the body can help realign the nervous system, which has a huge impact on all parts of your body. Some patients report seeing improvements to aspects of their lives, such as sleep quality and digestion.
Is Cranial Osteopathy Safe?
In short, yes, cranial osteopathy is safe. This is due to the treatment being carried out by qualified professionals, notably ones certified as registered osteopaths. The soft touch approach makes it suitable for all ages, from babies to adults.
Cranial Osteopathy at The Orchard Clinic
If you’re located in or near Reading, UK, why not book in for a consultation at The Orchard Clinic? Our experienced team is ready to help you with whatever is causing your stress and tension. To find out more about our cranial osteopathy treatment, or to book an appointment, please do not hesitate to get in touch with us. We look forward to welcoming you to our calm and peaceful clinic.
