Craniosacral Therapy
This unique form of therapy is utilised to treat a wide range of physical, neurological, and psychological conditions, and can be used in conjunction with other modalities, making it an ideal choice for holistic canine care. At Animal Axis, we specialise in providing craniosacral therapy for dogs, offering a personalised approach to enhance their wellbeing and restore balance.
A Holistic Treatment Option
Craniosacral therapy, with its focus on optimising the movement of cerebrospinal fluid and reducing tension, stands out as one of the few therapies that specifically targets the individual bones of the head within the context of the whole body. Developed by osteopath William Sutherland in the early 1900s, this therapy was later popularised as Craniosacral Therapy by Dr. John Upledger in the 1980s.
Dogs who receive regular bodywork such as massage, and have pattern of re-occuring issues can benefit from craniosacral therapy. It allows the dog to “unwind” the kinks and twists in their fascia that is caused from repeated stresses allowing the muscles and other soft tissues to remain less restricted for longer following a massage.
Benefits of Craniosacral Therapy
Improve Your Dog’s Health
Craniosacral therapy focuses on the craniosacral rhythm, which is akin to the heartbeat but is powered by the movement of cerebrospinal fluid. This fluid nourishes the central nervous system and any disruptions in its flow can directly impact overall health. Through specialised techniques and protocols, we can enhance and correct the flow of cerebrospinal fluid, restoring balance to your dog’s system.
A Healing Approach
Every dog, regardless of size, breed, or shape, has 26 individual bones in their skull. The complexity increases for puppies, who have even more individual bones at birth. These bones meet at sutures, acting as joints that are designed for subtle movements such as CSF (Cerebral Spinal Fluid) pumping and to absorb shocks. When stress or an injury occurs, these bones can become misaligned altering the flow of CSF.
During The Session
During a craniosacral therapy session, we employ gentle and precise hands-on techniques to release tension and manipulate the bones of the head, spine, and sacrum. These techniques enable the bones to move with increased freedom, facilitating the optimal flow of cerebrospinal fluid. Craniosacral Therapy also assist with the release of the body’s connective tissue, or “fascia” which connects every single part of the body.
Here is an overview of what may happen during the session:
Assessment: We will evaluate your dog’s posture, movement, and any signs of discomfort or tension.
Hands-on Techniques: A gentle and non-invasive touch will be used to detect any restrictions or imbalances within the body. Then light pressure is applied to manipulate and release the bones of the cranium, the spine and sacrum. These techniques allow for subtle movements in these bones which allow them to move more freely in order to restore an optimal, balanced flow of cerebrospinal fluid. Specialised techniques are also utilised to address soft tissue/muscle tightness and adhesions within the body.
Treatment: We may focus on specific areas such as the head, neck, spine, or pelvis to restore balance and improve function.
Relaxation and Healing: The treatment promotes relaxation, reduces stress, and enhances the body’s natural healing processes.
The Benefits of Craniosacral Therapy
Craniosacral therapy will assist in keeping dogs in balance, benefiting them physically as well as mentally and emotionally, helping them recover from any injury and making the impact of ageing more comfortable!
The benefits of craniosacral therapy for dogs are numerous:
✔ Highly effective in treating acute and chronic injuries.
✔ Helps to maintain musculoskeletal balance, joint health, and mobility.
✔ Helps prevent muscle atrophy which occurs when compensation patterns are present.
✔ Helps improve proprioception.
✔ Increased range of motion.
✔ Decrease in chronic pain and re-injury.
✔ Reduced stress and anxiety.
✔ Addresses headaches and improves concentration.
✔ Helps Improve attitude/behavioural issues.
Craniosacral therapy provides holistic wellbeing for your canine companion.
Enhancing Canine Wellbeing
Investing in Animal Axis for your dog’s healing and wellness needs is an investment in their long-term health and happiness. Contact us today to schedule a consultation and explore how their craniosacral therapy can benefit your dog.