About Cranio Structural Integration®
What is CranioStructural Integration?
CranioStructural Integration (CSI) is a cranial approach to treating chronic musculoskeletal pain and dysfunction. The CSI techniques were developed by Dr. Hancock to eliminate chronic musculoskeletal compensatory patterns which he had identified using Applied Kinesiology and other techniques. These common patterns respond poorly to most other forms of treatment, including chiropractic manipulation, other cranial techniques, various soft tissue therapies, reflex techniques and other modalities. However, these chronic patterns do respond to CSI, which provides long-term cranial corrections. These changes allow the body to achieve improvements in posture and musculoskeletal function.
How is CSI different?
CSI differs from most other cranial treatment in several ways:
- CSI has a different treatment objective – to eliminate chronic
compensatory musculoskeletal patterns that are common factors in pain. - CSI is a structural approach to cranial therapy rather than an energy-based
or fluid approach. Emphasis is placed on moving (aligning) physical structures
rather than moving cerebral spinal fluid or balancing the cranial rhythmic impulses (CRI). - CSI procedures are more assertive. Emphasis is placed not only on
freeing sutural restrictions, but also on addressing the soft tissue
elements which are perpetuating and maintaining them.
How does CSI work?
CSI uses unique cranial procedures to release the sutural and soft tissue restrictions that are limiting cranial motion and perpetuating both the chronic cranial patterns and their related compensatory postural and musculoskeletal patterns. Each CSI cranial technique releases a portion of the cranial restrictions and results in immediate and predictable long-term improvements in posture and/or muscle function throughout the body. These improvements are demonstrated by manual muscle testing, palpation, observation, and/or range of motion (ROM) evaluations.
What are the benefits of CSI?
The most important benefits of CSI include:
- Pain reduction
- More balanced musculoskeletal function
- Postural improvement.
CranioStructural Integration results in changes to the pelvic tippage and rotation generally observed in the prone and supine positions. These improvements reduce functional leg-length inequality, functional scoliosis patterns, and many other musculoskeletal patterns. These functional improvements can also reduce or eliminate chronic trigger points, sciatic pain, headaches, TMJ dysfunctions, and some eye muscle dysfunctions. ADD, ADHD and some seizure disorders may also respond well to CSI; many 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 cranial ROM further enhances the benefits typically associated with craniosacral techniques, provides desirable changes in other aspects of health, and also enhances the effectiveness of many other therapies.
How was CSI developed?
The treatment approach used in CSI was developed by Dr. Dallas Hancock. Want to know more? Click here to read excerpts from Dr. Hancock’s PREFACE [1] to his CranioStructural Integration manual.
How can this therapy improve sports performance?
Almost everyone has postural compensations and related imbalances in musculoskeletal function. Manual muscle testing can be used to demonstrate differences in the strength of bilateral muscle groups in the gluteal region, shoulders, hips, etc. CranioStructural Integration treatment enhances strength, coordination, balance and other important considerations in athletic performance by improving musculoskeletal function.
How often do I have to come for therapy?
The series of CranioStructural Integration 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 completed, but this can vary according to the patient’s needs and availability.
How long will the results last?
The CranioStructural Integration treatment procedures provide long-term corrections and are generally not repeated. However, in the event of significant trauma resulting from an accident, some CSI techniques may need to be repeated to restore normal mobility to the cranial mechanism.
Can I continue therapy / treatment with my chiropractor, physical therapist,
massage therapist, etc.?
Absolutely! CranioStructural Integration is a complementary treatment modality that provides specific therapeutic benefits. It can be performed independent of other treatment procedures, or done concurrently with other treatment you are receiving. It can enhance the effectiveness of other treatment modalities and patients are usually 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 musculoskeletal system will be changing. If you are planning to participate in a competitive event in the next few days, it might be better to start the CSI series afterwards. Although your capabilities will improve with the treatment, your body may need a few days to adapt to the changes.
Will there be any discomfort associated with the treatments?
Patients generally report feeling improvements after the first visit and a decrease in the number and severity of their symptoms in the vast majority of cases. As posture and musculoskeletal function changes, some people become aware of the new muscle activity associated with these changes. On the first therapy session (when the cranial bones are most restricted) the treatment is more intense, and some people are aware of tenderness on their head after the session. Occasionally, some people have a brief headache after the first treatment. Discomfort after subsequent treatment sessions is seldom reported.
Where can I read / learn more about cranial techniques and the work you are doing?
Most of the concepts and procedures used in CranioStructural Integration and Facilitated Pathways Intervention have been developed by Dr. Hancock and Dr. Barber. The workshop manuals for these classes are available through our online store [2].
Treatments directed toward restoring normal sutural mobility to the cranial vault have evolved separately in the chiropractic and osteopathic professions. Organizations from both professions have continued to use and teach cranial treatment techniques. The treatment 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 sources.
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.