CRANIOSTRUCTURAL INTEGRATION^SM

What is CranioStructural Integration^SM?

CranioStructural Integration (CSI) is a unique protocol of cranial techniques developed by Dr. Hancock. The CSI techniques were developed to eliminate universally present neuromusculoskeletal compensation patterns which he has identified using techniques of Applied Kinesiology. These compensatory patterns, which he has named Primary Compensatory Patterns (PCP), respond poorly to most other forms of treatment including chiropractic manipulation, typical craniosacral techniques, various somatic soft-tissue releases, reflex techniques or other modalities. CSI provides long-term cranial corrections that allow the body to achieve new levels of postural balance and musculoskeletal relaxation not attainable by the other therapies.

How is CSI different?

CSI differs from most other cranial treatment in several ways:

· CSI procedures are more assertive.

· CSI is a structural - rather than energy-based - approach to cranial therapy.

· CSI has a different treatment objective.

The objective of CSI treatment is to eliminate universal chronic neuromuscular Primary Compensatory Patterns. This is accomplished by using unique cranial procedures to release the sutural restrictions and soft-tissue components that are restricting cranial motion and perpetuating both the cranial and somatic portions of the Primary Compensatory Patterns. Each cranial procedure results in immediate and predictable long-term improvements in posture and/or muscle function throughout the body. These improvements can be demonstrated by manual muscle testing, palpation, observation, and/or range of motion (ROM) evaluation.

What are the benefits of CSI?

The most important benefits of CSI include:

· Pain reduction.

· More balanced neuromuscular function.

· Postural improvement.

CranioStructural Integration results in changes to the universally present pelvic tippage and rotation. This reduces the leg-length inequality, functional scoliosis patterns and many other global compensatory patterns. These structural improvements can reduce or eliminate chronic trigger points, sciatic pain, temporomandibular joint dysfunction (TMJ and TMD), headaches and certain eye muscle dysfunctions. Dyslexia, ADD, ADHD and some seizure disorders also frequently respond well to CSI. Other conditions can also benefit.

The unique structural approach of CSI provides substantially greater ranges of motion to all parts of the craniosacral mechanism. Increased ROM further enhances the benefits typically associated with craniosacral techniques. Improvement in the functioning of the hormonal system and the central and peripheral nervous systems facilitates desirable changes in other aspects of health and also enhances the effectiveness of many other therapies.

How was CSI developed?

Click here to read Dr. Hancock’s FOREWORD to the 2005 edition of his CranioStructural Integration manual.

How can this therapy improve sports performance?

Almost everyone has postural compensations and related imbalances in neuromuscular function. Manual muscle testing can be used to demonstrate differences in strength of bilateral muscles groups in the gluteal region, shoulders, hips, etc. Elimination of the postural and neuromuscular compensation patterns by CranioStructural Integration treatment improves strength, coordination, balance and other important considerations in athletic performance.

How often do I have to come for therapy?

CranioStructural Integration consists of a unique group of techniques developed to release specific chronic sutural restrictions and maximize craniosacral movement and function. The series of procedures is usually accomplished in about 3 hours of treatment spread over 4 - 5 office visits. The suggested frequency of treatment is once per week until the series is complete, but this will vary according to the patient’s needs and availability.

How long will the results last?

This series of CranioStructural Integration procedures is generally not repeated. After the chronic ‘Primary’ patterns have been released, typical craniosacral techniques and sutural releases can be used to treat new and recurring problems on an as-needed basis and to maintain normal cranial function. These later techniques are ‘functional’ cranial releases used to treat typical ‘everyday’ problems in conjunction with other treatment methods. In the event of significant head trauma resulting from an accident, some of the more ‘structural’ releases of CSI might be needed again to restore normal cranial movement.

Can I continue therapy / treatment with my chiropractor, physical therapist, massage therapist, etc.?

Absolutely! CranioStructural Integration is a complementary treatment modality providing specific therapeutic benefits. It can be used to enhance the effectiveness of your current treatment modality. Patients are encouraged to continue their treatment plans with their other practitioners.

Will I have to discontinue some of my other activities (gym, golf, running, etc.) during this series.

It is generally not necessary to discontinue physical activities. However, the body will be changing. If you are planning to participate in a competitive event in the next couple of days it might be better to start the series afterwards. Although your capabilities will improve with the treatment, the body may need a few days to adapt to the changes.

Will there be any discomfort associated with the treatments?

When the pelvis levels and the posture changes, some people become aware of the new muscle activity associated with these changes. On the first treatment visit (when the cranial bones are really restricted) the treatment is more intense, and some people are aware of tenderness on their head after the session. Occasionally people have a brief headache after the first session. Discomfort related to subsequent treatment session is not commonly reported. In the vast majority of cases, patients report improvements in their symptoms after the first visit, and a decrease in the number of their problems.

Where can I read / learn more about cranial techniques and the work you are doing?

Treatments directed toward restoring normal sutural mobility to the cranial vault have evolved separately in the chiropractic and osteopathic professions. A chiropractor, Nephi Cottam, began using and teaching techniques to release sutures in the 1920’s. He published a book on the subject 1936. An osteopath, William G. Sutherland, began using cranial procedures around the same period and published his book in 1939.

Organizations from both professions have continued to use and teach cranial treatment techniques. The manuals published by these organizations are not generally available to the public but numerous doctors and therapists have written on the subject and their books can be found in bookstores or ordered through online book sources.

Most of the concepts and procedures used in CranioStructural Integration and Facilitated Pathways Intervention have been developed by Dr. Hancock and Flo Barber (see Publications). The workshop manuals for these classes are not available to the general public.

Will my insurance company pay for this treatment?

Insurance policies vary tremendously in their coverage. You will need to check with your insurance company for specific details on what they will and will not cover.

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