The origin and development of cranio-sacral osteopathy

Abstract

Cranio-sacral osteopathy is a controversial extension of contemporary osteopathic practice. It emerged in the USA in the 1940s, having taken the founder, William G Sutherland (a student of A.T. Still) some 30 years to develop. Cranio-sacral-osteopathy rests on an hypothesis which includes a rhythmic, although minute, pulsation of the central nervous system which causes a fluctuation of the cerebro-spinal fluid, and which in turn moves the reduplications of the dura mater to produce small degrees of motion at the cranial sutures and influences the sacrum between the ilia. It is claimed that dysfunction of this mechanism can lead to widespread symptomatic sequelae. The mechanism appears to be especially vulnerable to trauma, particularly birth trauma, and certain infections. The techniques used to modify the function of this involuntary mechanism, which Sutherland called the primary respiratory mechanism, are very gentle. Research has tended to lend colour to Sutherland's hypothesis rather than the reverse, and this body of research is discussed. Paradoxically, more research has been done in this area than in conventional osteopathy.

Key Words:

• Cerebro-spinal fluid
• Cranio-sacral mechanisms
• Involuntary suture fulcrum
• Reciprocal tension