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Craniosacral Therapy

Craniosacral Therapy (CST) is a gentle, non-invasive therapeutic approach developed by Dr. John Upledger, an osteopathic physician, in the 1970s. Dr. Upledger's work in CST emerged from his clinical observations and research into the craniosacral system—a physiological system comprised of the membranes and cerebrospinal fluid that surround and protect the brain and spinal cord. He discovered that subtle, rhythmic motions of these tissues and fluids are essential to maintaining overall health and well-being.

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The Craniosacral System

The craniosacral system includes the bones of the skull (cranium), the sacrum (a triangular bone at the base of the spine), the membranes, and the cerebrospinal fluid that bathes the brain and spinal cord. This system has its own inherent rhythm which Dr. Upledger termed the "craniosacral rhythm."

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Discovery and Development

During a surgery in 1971, Dr. Upledger observed rhythmic movement in the spinal cord that traditional medical explanations could not account for. This observation led him to study the craniosacral system further, and he discovered that this subtle movement could be felt by trained hands. He theorized that restrictions in the craniosacral system could lead to dysfunctions in the body, contributing to a wide range of physical and emotional conditions.

Dr. Upledger's research showed that by using light, manual techniques to assess and gently manipulate the craniosacral system, therapists could release these restrictions, improving the flow of cerebrospinal fluid and enhancing the body's natural ability to heal itself. This approach became the foundation of Craniosacral Therapy.

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How Craniosacral Therapy Works

CST is based on the concept that the body has an innate ability to heal itself, but sometimes this process is hindered by physical restrictions or trauma within the craniosacral system. The therapy involves the practitioner using a light touch—often no more than the weight of a nickel—to gently manipulate the bones of the skull, the sacrum, and the connective tissues.

By applying these subtle techniques, the therapist can identify areas of restriction or tension within the craniosacral system. The goal is to release these restrictions, which in turn helps to alleviate pain, reduce stress, and improve the overall function of the central nervous system. CST is often described as a holistic therapy because it addresses not just the physical body but also the emotional and energetic aspects of health. Many clients report experiencing a deep sense of relaxation during and after a session, as well as relief from long-standing physical and emotional issues.

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CST has been shown to benefit those with:

  • Headaches and Migraines

  • Chronic Neck and Back Pain

  • Musculoskeletal Concerns

  • Nerve Pain

  • Stress and Tension-Related Disorders

  • Immune Disorders

  • Digestive Concerns

  • Chronic Fatigue

  • Fibromyalgia

  • Jaw Pain and Dysfunction

  • Scoliosis

  • Post-Concussion Symptoms

  • Learning Differences, ADD, ADHD

  • Alzheimer’s

  • Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder

  • And Many Other Conditions

 

 

Muscle & Joint Assessment

Our Muscle & Joint Assessment is a comprehensive service designed to address both acute and chronic musculoskeletal concerns. Drawing on her extensive experience as an athletic trainer and certification as a Corrective Exercise Specialist, Lea conducts an in-depth evaluation of the specific area affected by injury or persistent pain. This assessment goes beyond a superficial examination, aiming to identify the root causes of discomfort, whether they stem from improper movement patterns, muscle imbalances, or joint dysfunction.

 

During the assessment, Lea takes the time to thoroughly understand your medical history, lifestyle factors, and any previous injuries that may contribute to your current condition. Through a combination of observation, manual techniques, and specialized assessment tools, evaluation of your posture, range of motion, strength, and flexibility is completed. This detailed approach ensures that we gain a clear and holistic understanding of your unique situation.

 

Based on the findings from your assessment, a personalized care plan that addresses your specific needs will be developed. This plan will include targeted stretches and exercises designed to restore balance, improve function, and alleviate pain. The exercises are carefully chosen to support your body’s natural healing process, enhance mobility, and prevent future issues.

 

While Lea brings the knowledge and skills of an athletic trainer to the table, please note that in the state of Wisconsin, she is not practicing as a licensed athletic trainer. This service focuses on wellness and corrective exercises rather than medical treatment. The goal is to empower you with the tools and strategies needed to manage and improve your musculoskeletal health, so you can move with confidence and ease in your daily life.

 

Whether you’re recovering from an injury, managing chronic pain, or looking to optimize your physical performance, the Muscle & Joint Assessment is a proactive step towards achieving a healthier, more resilient body.

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Bodywork

Bodywork is a broad term that encompasses various therapeutic techniques designed to alleviate pain, reduce tension, and improve overall physical well-being. At Luminous CST, our bodywork sessions are customized to address your specific needs and concerns, ensuring you receive the most effective treatment for your body. Our approach integrates a combination of scraping, cupping, manual therapy, and stretching, each of which offers unique benefits to support your health and recovery.

 

Scraping

Scraping, also known as Instrument Assisted Soft Tissue Mobilization (IASTM), is a therapeutic technique that involves using specialized tools to apply controlled microtrauma to the soft tissues. These tools are designed to help break down fascial restrictions and scar tissue, improve blood flow, and stimulate the body's natural healing processes. By targeting specific areas of tension and dysfunction, scraping can effectively reduce pain, enhance mobility, and accelerate recovery from injuries.

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Cupping Therapy

Cupping therapy is a traditional practice rooted in ancient Chinese medicine that involves placing cups on the skin to create a suction effect. This decompression of the tissues draws blood to the surface, promoting increased mobility and increased circulation which encourages the body’s natural detoxification processes. Cupping can be particularly effective for releasing tight muscles, relieving pain, and improving overall flexibility.

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Manual Therapy

Manual therapy is a hands-on approach that involves skilled manipulation of the body’s soft tissues, including muscles, tendons, and ligaments. This modality is highly versatile and can be tailored to address a wide range of musculoskeletal issues, from chronic pain to injury rehabilitation. Techniques used in manual therapy may include myofascial release, trigger point therapy, and deep tissue massage, all aimed at reducing pain, improving mobility, and enhancing overall function.

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Stretching

Stretching is a fundamental component of bodywork that focuses on elongating and loosening the muscles to improve flexibility, prevent injury, and promote overall physical health. Assisted stretching allows for deeper and more effective stretching than what can typically be achieved alone. Stretching is particularly beneficial for those looking to improve posture, relieve tension, or enhance athletic performance.

 

Benefits of Bodywork:

 

  • Relieves muscle spasm, tension and tightness

  • Promotes better blood and lymphatic circulation

  • Helps reduce inflammation and swelling

  • Alleviates pain and discomfort in muscles and joints

  • Improves range of motion and flexibility

  • Facilitates faster recovery from injuries

  • Improves posture and alignment

  • Enhances athletic performance and reduces the risk of injury

 

Customized Bodywork Sessions

Each bodywork session at Luminous CST is tailored to your unique needs, whether you have a specific modality in mind or require guidance in selecting the best approach for your concerns. During the session, we may use one or a combination of these techniques to create a comprehensive treatment plan that targets your specific areas of discomfort. Our goal is to provide a holistic experience that not only addresses pain and tension but also supports your overall well-being.

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Whether you're seeking relief from chronic pain, recovering from an injury, or simply looking to enhance your physical health, our bodywork services offer a personalized and effective solution to help you feel your best.

 

Kinesiology taping treatment with blue and pink tape on athlete patient injured arm. Woman

Kinesiology Tape

Kinesiology Taping is an advanced therapeutic technique widely used in sports medicine, physical therapy, and bodywork to support healing and enhance physical performance. Originally developed in the 1970s by Dr. Kenzo Kase, a Japanese chiropractor, kinesiology tape is made from a flexible, elastic material designed to mimic the properties of human skin. Its unique ability to stretch and move with the body makes it an effective tool for addressing a variety of musculoskeletal issues.

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How Kinesiology Taping Works

Kinesiology tape works by gently lifting the skin away from the underlying tissues, creating a small amount of space between the skin and the muscles. This lifting action helps to improve blood and lymphatic circulation in the taped area, promoting the removal of excess fluids, reducing swelling, and relieving pressure on pain receptors. The tape's elasticity also provides support to muscles and joints without restricting the body’s natural range of motion, making it an ideal solution for both injury recovery and performance enhancement.

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Benefits of Kinesiology Taping

Kinesiology taping offers a wide range of benefits that make it a versatile addition to any therapeutic or athletic regimen:

  • Pain Relief: By reducing pressure on pain receptors and providing support to overworked or injured muscles, kinesiology taping can help alleviate both acute and chronic pain. It is particularly effective for conditions like tendonitis, muscle strains, and joint pain.

  • Swelling Reduction: The tape’s ability to improve lymphatic drainage and increase circulation helps to reduce swelling and inflammation in injured or overused areas. This makes it a valuable tool for managing post-injury swelling or for individuals dealing with chronic conditions like arthritis.

  • Enhanced Performance: Athletes and active individuals often use kinesiology tape to support muscles and joints during training and competition. The tape can help improve muscle function, reduce fatigue, and enhance overall performance by providing targeted support without restricting movement.

  • Faster Recovery: By promoting better circulation and lymphatic drainage, kinesiology taping can accelerate the body’s natural healing process. Whether recovering from an injury or managing a chronic condition, this technique can help speed up recovery times and improve overall outcomes.

  • Postural Support: Kinesiology tape can be used to improve posture by providing gentle feedback to the body, reminding it to maintain proper alignment. This is especially beneficial for individuals who spend long hours sitting or standing in one position.

  • Prevention of Re-Injury: For those recovering from an injury, kinesiology taping can provide additional support to the affected area, helping to prevent re-injury during the healing process. The tape’s flexibility allows for movement while still offering stability to vulnerable muscles and joints.​

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Application of Kinesiology Taping

Kinesiology taping is a quick and effective procedure that typically takes about 10 minutes to complete. The tape can be applied to various parts of the body depending on the specific needs of the individual. It can be used as a standalone service or as an add-on at the end of any other service offered at Luminous CST. Whether you’re dealing with a specific injury, looking to improve athletic performance, or simply seeking to enhance your body’s natural healing processes, kinesiology taping is a versatile and effective tool to support your wellness goals.

 

 

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