Post-Traumatic
Stress Disorder (PTSD) is a condition that may be experienced by anyone who has
undergone a traumatic event. PTSD occurs when the body/mind has not yet
recognized that a traumatic event is over. As a result, the body's sympathetic
nervous system (fight/flight) is activated and the body responds by
continuously mobilizing muscles and other body systems for defense and/or
numbing (a freeze response).
CranioSacral
therapists have been treating people with PTSD for many years now. The Upledger Institute has done studies with
Vietnam veterans as well as Gulf War Veterans with very positive results.
(http://www.upledger.org/programs/ptsd-relief.php). But it is not only war that can cause PTSD
any trauma can leave a lasting effect on the body.
CranioSacral
Therapy is an alternative approach to the treatment of PTSD involving gentle,
non-invasive touch that supports the self-correcting ability of the body.
Craniosacral Therapy works to support the part of the body that surrounds and
protects the brain and spinal cord. Craniosacral Therapy acknowledges that
emotions can become locked in the body's connective tissues as emotional
memories and emotional pain. A CranioSacral therapy approach can help release
the energy the body may have retained after a traumatic physical or emotional
experience. A Craniosacral Therapy session is deeply relaxing to the body's
central nervous system as the parasympathetic nervous system (rest and digest)
is activated and balanced. In a parasympathetic state the body decreases
production of the stress hormones linked to sleep and digestive problems and a
suppressed immune system. It becomes easier for people receiving Craniosacral
Therapy to remain more calm and focused.
Jeannette Raskin practices at Family First Chiropractic, 142
Erickson Drive, Red Deer, Alberta.
403-347-3261. www.family1stchiro.ca.
