Where Did Craniosacral Come From
The Doctors that Discovered Craniosacral Therapy
and
How the Osteopathic Technique Became a Therapy
Dr. William Garner Sutherland
(1873-1954)
William Garner Sutherland, Doctor of Osteopathy (1873-1954), revolutionized the understanding of bone dynamics by debunking the belief that bones fuse at birth. Instead, he revealed that bones within the body are capable of movement.
Throughout his career, Sutherland, as an osteopath, experienced the subtle motions and pulsations within the body's bones. He attributed these movements to the intrinsic "Intelligence" of the body's system. Recognizing the profound interplay of movement and healing, he dedicated himself to exploring the craniosacral system, encompassing the membranes and fluid surrounding the brain and spinal cord. Through his groundbreaking work, he uncovered the transformative potential of this system, which significantly surpassed conventional osteopathic techniques in alleviating pain and enhancing overall function for his patients.
Between 1975 and 1983, Dr. Upledger collaborated with a team comprised of anatomists, physiologists, biophysicists, and bioengineers at Michigan State University. Their rigorous study and testing of the Craniosacral Therapy concept laid the foundation for the modern practice of Craniosacral Therapy.
Recognized as pivotal in maintaining the central nervous system's operational environment, the craniosacral system influences every part of the central nervous system performance, spanning from motor function to emotional regulation.
Dr. John Upledger's enduring commitment to advancing Craniosacral Therapy led to the establishment of a Craniosacral School, aimed at democratizing access to comprehensive training in this field.
The start of Craniosacral Therapy school's dates back to 1986, when Sills introduced the first training program at the Karuna Institute. Over the subsequent decade, a comprehensive biodynamic curriculum started across Europe and the United States. Craniosacral spread to Switzerland, the USA, Spain, Australia, and Germany, fostering a global community of practitioners.
In 1995, the graduates of Sills’ US program crafted their own training modules while Sills continued to impart his wisdom in the United States. The formation of the Biodynamic Craniosacral Therapy Association of North America (BCTA/NA) in 1998 marked a pivotal moment, of formal certification processes for craniosacral therapists upon completion of their educational programs.
Today, the landscape of craniosacral therapy boasts an impressive array of hundreds of certified teachers spanning the globe, alongside thousands of certified practitioners, testament to the enduring legacy of Sills' visionary work and the collaborative efforts of dedicated professionals worldwide.