Craniosacral Therapy: The In's and Out's

How does CranioSacral Therapy work?
CranioSacral Therapy works by helping the body’s natural healing mechanisms dissipate the negative effects of stress on the central nervous system. This is accomplished by utilizing a physiological body system called the craniosacral system, which maintains the environment in which the central nervous system functions.  The craniosacral system consists of the membranes and cerebrospinal fluid that surround and protect the brain and spinal cord, extending from the cranium (head) down to the tailbone area (or sacrum). The role of this system in the development and performance of the brain and spinal cord is so vital that an imbalance or dysfunction in it can cause sensory, motor and/or neurological disabilities. For example, if the bite (or jaw) is out of balance, the whole head is out of balance, and often the whole body.

How can something so gentle be so powerful?
The craniosacral system has a rhythm that can be felt throughout the body, just like the pulse. I use a very light touch to monitor this rhythm from head to feet to pinpoint the source of an obstruction or stress. I can then encourage the natural movement of the fluid and soft tissues to help the body self-correct. This simple action is often all it takes to remove a restriction. Sometimes, like peeling layers of an onion, once some restrictions have released and balanced, others may show themselves and need attention.

Jeannette Raskin practices at Family First Chiropractic, 142 Erickson Drive, Red Deer, Alberta.  403-347-3261. www.family1stchiro.ca.

Pressure Points and Labor....what you can do

Pressure Points to Induce Labor

Many women find themselves, as their due dates draw near, searching for ways to jump start labor. 

What is acupressure?

An age-old practice, stemming from Asia, is acupressure. Acupressure is derived from acupuncture. With acupuncture, needles are placed in various locations throughout the body to help relieve stress and pain. Acupressure uses a similar technique except needles are replaced with finger pressure.Certain locations on the body have been found to be somewhat effective at not only naturally inducing labor but assisting with the pain and discomfort associated with labor. Before you learn what and where the acupressure sites are, you need to understand when it is appropriate.

Before trying acupressureAnyone interested in acupressure should not attempt to do so until it is safe to deliver the baby. There is no universal agreement on when it is “safe”, but most physicians advise nothing prior to 38 weeks. Some say that no matter what you try, your body will not go into labor until it’s ready. There is no guarantee that this is the case and no mom wants to risk their baby’s health. Also, any woman interested in trying acupressure to help initiate labor should ask their health care provider first.

Pressure points:The first area on the body used for stimulating labor is located between the thumb and index finger. This point is actually the “webbing” between these two areas. Techniques vary, but this pressure point can be pressed and rubbed for several seconds or simply pressed firmly for approximately one minute and then released. This technique can also be used during active labor to relieve pain.

The next area of the body used for stimulating labor is the ankle. This area actually has two different pressure points. The first pressure point is located on the outside of the ankle, just behind where the bony prominence is. Just like the first mentioned location, techniques vary but the pressure point can be rubbed or pressed for several seconds or one minute. The other ankle pressure point is inside the leg, above the ankle. This area may be difficult to find but it is more sensitive to touch than the rest of the leg.Another area is located on the back, above the buttocks and lower back. This area can also be pressed or massaged as tolerated.

The final area commonly used for initiating labor is located on the neck, the large muscle between the neck and the shoulder. This area can be pressed or massaged as tolerated.

Acupressure does not work for all women and may not be tolerated by all. Massaging or pressing on these areas should not cause pain and if it does cause pain, should be stopped immediately.

Nearing the end of your pregnancy can become very frustrating but don’t lose hope. Women do not stay pregnant forever and your baby will be here sooner than you think.

This Blog brought to you by Family First Chiropractic and Wellness 142 Erickson Drive, Red Deer
403-347-3261
www.family1stchiro.ca