Craniopathy is an alternative form of osteopathy which is also practiced in the profession of chiropractic in the form of Sacro-Occipital Technique (SOT). Craniopathy like Osteopathy is a non-invasive method of therapy that relies on manipulating and strengthening the musculoskeletal system to improve health. The overall goal is to enhance the function of the nervous, circulatory, and lymphatic systems. Craniopathy was developed by Chiropractor and Osteopathby the name of Major Bertrand DeJarnette who studied with Cranial Osteopath Dr. William G. Sutherland.
Sutherland surmised that the “breath of life” pulsated from the cranium. This thought is based on the fact that the cranium does in deed pulsate and “breath” if you will, pumping through the body cerebro-spinal fluid (CSF), yet this is not widely known.
The skull’s movement is in response to blood pressure and nerve cell movement and is very light making it difficult to feel by anyone not trained in Craniopathy. Because the bones of the cranium are able to move they can, therefore, be adjusted / manipulated by a trained chiropractor, if needed. This manipulation allows the “living force”of CSF to flow freely and can lead to optimal overall health. The glands primarily associated with the flow of hormones are also impacted by this pulsing. An individual may suffer from migraines, cluster headaches, slight dysfunctions of the brain, and hormonal issues as a result of the bones around this area not moving as freely as they should.
The cranial vault is the portion of the skull that covers the brain. When this area has distortions / misalignments it is thought that many diseases and disorders may develop as a result. These conditions include ADHD, autism, Parkinson’s disease and even scoliosis. Facial and temporal bones that that are misaligned can lead to jaw pain / TMJ vertigo, facial pain, Bell’s Palsy, and dizziness.
During a visit to a chiropractic practitioner of Craniopathy a patient should expect to give a thorough history of former injuries, their birth process (c-section, vaginal, etc.), current symptoms, lifestyle, and medical history. A physical exam will then be performed to inspect the ribs, cranium, spine, and limbs. The practitioner will then manipulate the cranial bones and sacrum into its proper alignment with gentle, directed and focused touch.
The first visit should last approximately one hour to give the practitioner enough time to review the individual history and properly examine the patient and apply the manipulation techniques needed. Follow up visits will usually last 30-45 minutes.
The (SOT) Sacro Occipital Technique association is an international organization requiring membership. This organization is the governing body for Craniopathy practitioners. Doctors of Osteopathy (DO’s), dentists, medical doctors, and chiropractors are able to be trained by the SOT practitioners.
Dr. Kaminsky is well versed in Craniopathy and SOT Chiropractic but prefers to use the gentler methods of Craniosacral Therapy. He is located in NYC, Midtown, Manhattan.