Sacro-Cranial System
The Sacro-Cranial system is a distinct physiological network, discovered by William Garner Sutherland in the early part of last century.  Contrary to the old dogma of the fused skull, the sutures (joints) of the cranium are variously bevelled, notched and angled to allow movement and hence are susceptible to pathological restrictions.

Variations in the volume of cerebrospinal fluid produced and reabsorbed in areas of the head create movement and tidal rhythms.  This activity is conveyed to the entire body by membranes and connective fascia.

The cranium is structurally connected to the sacrum by membranes which line the spinal cord and contain the cerebrospinal fluid.  This constitutes a semi enclosed hydraulic system that a therapist can evaluate and modify for general and specific treatment outcomes.

What is the Sacro-Cranial Technique?
Sacro-Cranial Technique uses gentle and subtle palpation skills to assess movement patterns, enhance the inherent tendency of the body to self correct and treat restriction while evaluating the cranial rhythm.  Apart from freeing restrictions of the cranium, membranes, sacrum and fascia, this technique has a powerful influence on the autonomic nervous system, relaxing your body at a cellular level.

The interrelationship of structure and function is demonstrated by the Sacro-Cranial Technique in the treatment of some chronic physical, developmental and behavioural problems.  Many aspects of the technique can be used ad hoc by a therapist to compliment their normal treatment or the whole technique can be employed as a valuable alternative therapy.

How does the Sacro-Cranial Technique work?
It helps free restrictions in the fascia and membranes that support the bain and nerves.  This allows for freer circulation of lubricating, conducting and supporting cerebro-spinal fluids.  As the restrictions resolve deep relaxation occurs as biological electro-magnetic energy flows more coherently.   

For whom is it suitable?
It is a suitable treatment for everybody, it does no harm and its therapeutic effect even on a new born baby is profound.  It is not used  directly after a trauma where a bony fracture may be present, but is extremely effective in resolving complaints for which medical science has no explanation or treatment.

What disorders does it treat?
Many disorders not amenable to treatment with other therapies such as interrelated head and sense organ dysfunctions respond well to Sacro-Cranial treatments.  The alignment of facial bones can be normalised to improve appearance and it can be used to treat jaw, sinus and dental problems.

Sacro-Cranial Technique can address many complaints. Underlying asymptomatic patterns can impair wellbeing.  When Sacro-Cranial Technique is used it can free local restrictions in the head and spine, that may be the result of trauma such as whiplash or birth shock.  

Sacro-Cranial Technique can be used to treat head aches and migraines, jaw noise, misalignment and pain, dental occlusal asymmetry, stress, childbirth trauma, psychiatric and learning difficulties, whiplash, high blood pressure, eye pain, facial neuralgia, coccyx pain, sinus congestion and pain, vertex and suture pain, tinnitus, vertigo, astigmatism, post-partum depression, hyperkinetic or behavioural syndromes, menstrual difficulties, lowering fever, sacral and pelvic strain, facial trauma and inability to relax.

Maggi Nimmo (Sacro-Crainal therapist and teacher) has a background in movement and theatre.  Maggi trained as a Sacro-Cranial therapist and studied movement therapy in the U.S.A.  A certified yoga teacher, her Sydney practice combines these modalities with stress management and related body therapies.