Cranial osteopathy is a relatively new therapy in Canada. It is a gentle, subtle technique that is effective with many conditions, such as chronic pain, that doctors and other therapists struggle to treat. Cranial osteopathy works through the structures and tissues of the body using subtle adjustments to restore function and health. Because cranial osteopathy is so gentle it is particularly suited for the treatment of babies and children. I also use it to treat pregnant and post-partum women. However, cranial osteopathy isn't just for babies. I integrate it into most of my treatments with adults, who find it very effective for pain relief, stress reduction and resolution of many chronic conditions and problems. Because it is so gentle, I use it to treat all ages: from newborns to seniors. People who are too debilitated from illness to be treated by more vigorous methods find that they can tolerate cranial osteopathy.

Most conditions respond to cranial osteopathy. I often use it with other osteopathic techniques for maximum healing effects or as a ‘stand alone’ therapy.

Bone conditions that can benefit from cranial osteopathy include scoliosis, congenital hip displacement, arthritis, impaired mobility and others.

Treatment of the nervous system is important too. Nerves make things work, from muscles to organs to your thought processes. Nerves that are irritated or whose function is compromised in some way, will limit how well the muscle, etc, can do its job. Cranial osteopathy removes obstructions to permit optimum nerve function. If there has been temporary or permanent injury, e.g. cerebral palsy, brain damage from an accident or other trauma, cranial osteopathy can help the brain and nervous system recover and work to their best ability. It also helps to keep the body healthy and improves quality of life.

Connective tissue surrounds every fibre in the body and connects it all together. Through this tissue passes blood vessels, lymph vessels and nerves. It is essential that this tissue is healthy and unrestricted in order for the body to be healthy. If, for example, a tissue is diseased, or is constricted, as in scar tissue, then passage of the vessels, nerves and their contents is impeded. This means that fewer nutrients are delivered to cells and more waste will accumulate, adversely affecting health. Cranial osteopathy works to remove restrictions, allowing the vessels to pass more freely.

Joint conditions, acute and chronic sprains, post-operative pain and symptoms of unknown origins can all respond to treatment with cranial osteopathy.

Many people find cranial osteopathy very soothing and relaxing to the point of dropping off to sleep. Some people experience a sensation of heat or tingling. Others feel no sensations but are aware of the beneficial effects afterwards.

I lightly place my hands on the area that requires treatment and others that are related. By gently adjusting, realigning and directing the intention to heal, I assist the body’s self-healing mechanisms to restore health.