What is Craniosacral Therapy?
A human osteopath developed craniosacral therapy (CST), Dr. William Sutherland over 100 years ago. Dr. Sutherland had discovered that there was an anticipated subtle pulse and flow-like wave. It's called the third pulse to CST practitioners, similar to a heartbeat or breathing. Dr. Sutherland hypothesized that the sutures connecting the skull bones allow this third pulse movement. He also theorized that there is a connection between the motion of these bones and the related tissue, such as the cerebrospinal fluid, the central nervous system, and the sacrum. While this third pulse should flow freely through the cerebrospinal fluid, it can be negatively impacted and restricted by injury/trauma, stress, or negative emotions can negatively impact and limit it. The restricted flow can result in an imbalance in the body with symptoms ranging from cribbing and weaving to blocked tear ducts and TMJ dysfunction. CST can free the restrictions in the body and restore the optimal pulse. The therapy can also help realign the skeletal structure and allow the horse to relax. It can also release trauma and negative emotions, thus enhancing the body's self-healing abilities.
What does Craniosacral Therapy involve?
The therapy uses subtle hands-on methods on the horse's body to help release restrictions in the musculoskeletal system and the fascia restoring postural balance and fluidity of the biomechanics. As this is an energy-based therapy, a light touch is used. There is zero physical manipulation of the bones and tissues. Specific attention is given to the skull, spine, and sacrum; the therapy is not limited to these areas since the whole body is connected.
What can Craniosacral therapy help with?
• Behavior problems
• Biomechanical issues
• Cribbing or teeth grinding
• Difficulty with respiration
• Facial nerve paralysis
• Headshaking
• Head traumas and injuries
• Imbalances of the TMJ and the muscles of mastication
• Lameness or difficulty with transitions
• Low back/stifle/hock joint problems
• Lameness/stiffness
• Somatic, emotional release
***This service is not a substitute for veterinary care. We will work closely with you, your vet, chiropractor, and farrier to benefit the whole horse.