Craniosacral Dysfunctions with Canines/Felines
Craniosacral Osteopathy for humans was developed by William Sutherland D.O., a
student of Andrew Still D.O. around 1935 in Kirksville, Missouri. He spent
almost fifty years of his life doing research studying the relationship between
the structure/form of the cranial bones and their function to understand the
complexity of the craniosacral mechanism. He developed several models (boneus,
membranous and spiritual) and wrote several books regarding his findings. The
Cranial Bowl was one of his most popular books. Dr. Sutherland D.O. was one of
the inspirations of the official American Cranial Academy which is today, a
well respected academy for research and teaching.
There are many similarities in the craniosacral mechanics of humans and canines.
Both have approximately 29 cranial bones, and they are connected with sutures
in between. These cranial bones move in a consistent, rhythmical pattern with
each other and with the sacrum in the pelvis. For canines, the craniosacral
rhythm is approximately 6-12 times per minute and is part of the three main
rhythms in the body: the heart beat, the breathing rhythm and the craniosacral
rhythm. The craniosacral rhythm ensures that the sutures between the bones can
serve as a shock absorber to an impact to the head. Another important function
of the craniosacral mechanics is to function as a pump for the cerebral spinal
fluid. The cerebral spinal fluid (CSF), that feeds the neurological tissues,
needs to be dispersed throughout the brain, and the whole dural sack. The CSF
is finally absorbed in the vascular system. With canines the dura attaches to
the middle of the anterior surface of the sacrum. This is the reason why there
is a connection between the dural movement in the cranium and the pelvis. The
normal rhythm between the cranium and the sacrum is very crucial for the health
of the animal and for successful functioning of the musculo-skeletal system.
Cranial dysfunctions can contribute to lumbo-pelvis dysfunctions and other
neurological disorders. Other common cranial symptoms with canines can be:
chronic ear and sinus infections, droopy eyes, excessive jawing, equilibrium
problems, general not feeling well, headaches and tilts, lack of energy and
seizures.
In my practice I treat humans and animals with craniosacral therapy. Both have
greatly benefited from these techniques and seem to recover very well. Recently
I developed a craniosacral course for canines/felines in which I will share
these powerful techniques.
References
Phillip Greenman D.O., College for Osteopathic Medicine in Lansing, Michigan
Frank Lowen LMT, Biovalent Systems, Albuquerque, New Mexico.
Fred Mitchell Sr. D.O., “Evaluation and treatment manual of osteopathic manipulative procedures”. 1979
Lauren “Bear” Rex D.O., URSA Foundation, Edmunds, Washington
Edward Stiles D.O., F.O.A., College for Osteopathic Medicine in Pikeville,
Kentucky
William Sutherland D.O., “The Cranial Bowl”. Kirksville, Missouri
Want to learn more?
In the last ten years I have taught wildlife rehabilitation classes for the
Wildlife Rehabilitation Council (WRC) in California. Five years ago I started
teaching courses in Osteopathic techniques for humans and animals in Canada and
the United States. In the courses we are applying a combination of several
osteopathic techniques.
I am invited to be a speaker at the Third International Symposium for Veterinary
Medicine and Animal Rehabilitation in Raleigh, North Carolina in 2004 and the
Combined Section meeting of the American Physical Therapy Association in New
Orleans, Louisiana in 2005.
Publications: Articles on Osteopathic Techniques for Canines in the 2004 spring
editions of the
“Wizard of Paws” and “C.H.A.P.” newsletter (Canada).
The animal courses are:
Introduction to Osteopathic Approach for Small-Animal Rehabilitation
Advanced ABOVE” and “BELOW Diaphragm
Craniosacral classes for Small animals
These courses are an intensive two, three and/or four days offered to
veterinarians, vet technicians, P.T.A.
’s and physical therapists. To secure a spot in the course, a $100 deposit is
required. Discounts are available for retaking the material.
Courses are accredited for CEU’s by the Oregon Veterinary and Physical Therapy Licensing Board.
Treatment in Oregon for medical conditions is by Veterinary Referral only. If
you should need assistance in obtaining a referral or if your veterinarian
would like further information regarding our services or courses at Full
Spectrum Canine Therapy, please contact me.
