So, we have now discussed what CST is and how it can help children in general. If you missed Part 1 of this then go back and read it before proceeding, this will help you have a better understanding. I now want to break down how it helps Autism and other delays. Hope this helps!

How does CST help Autism?
According to Dr. Upledger, autism is related in part to a loss of flexibility and probable inflammation of the membrane layers surrounding the brain. According to Johns Hopkins studies there are increased levels of pro-inflammatory cytokines, neuroglial activation and inflammatory changes in the CSF of children with autism. These children also have restrictive forces on the brain tissue that cause strain to the different brain structures, the osteopathic model states dysfunction follows. When the restrictions are removed the brain tissue can flush toxins and inflammation out of the brain tissue. This detoxification naturally elevates biochemical processing, increasing the functioning of neurological pathways.

How does CST help with emotions or physical trauma?
During birth, the cranial bones can become “stuck” or restricted creating tension on the brain and related nerves. When this tension is present it can keep the body from functioning appropriately, leading to symptoms such as colic, constipation, acid reflux, nursing problems, sleeping difficulties, ear infections, and much more.

There are also patients that have had to deal with trauma at some point in their lives, both emotional and physical. The body can in turn retain the emotional imprint from the trauma leading to some residual effects. These effects sometimes present themselves as physical ailments. CST can help children rid their bodies of these patterns using SomatoEmotional Release (SER) techniques. SER is a therapeutic process that uses and expands on the principles of CST to help rid the mind and body of the residual effects of trauma. SER offers applications designed to enhance results using CST and other complementary therapies. Through SER, the patient does not need to analyze the problem to release it, and the patient can therefore be treated with privacy.

How do they get CST restrictions?
This can go all the way back to their birth, so depending on your child history we may find many reasons for the restrictions. Some of the more common reasons are
• Breech
• Cesarean
• Childhood falls
• Difficult labor
• Forceps delivery
• Infections/Illness
• Multiples (twins, triplets)
• Self-injurious behaviors
• Stress to nervous system
• Surgery
• Trauma
• Vacuum extraction

Is there an age minimum or maximum?
We see kids from 2 weeks of age to adulthood. For those kids that are good candidates for CST I suggest when this will be best to pursue.

How long is therapy typically?
This varies depending on age, previous trauma and developmental needs. I usually see them for 30-minute appointments twice weekly for a period of time then once weekly until the restrictions have been removed, average care is about 12 weeks if done consistently. After the initial care I see them once monthly or when they are sick to help with drainage, growth spurts and keep things moving correctly. I always tell parents this is a short-term therapy for a long-term result.

By complementing the body’s natural healing processes, CST is increasingly used as a preventive health measure for its ability to bolster resistance to disease and is effective for a wide range of medical problems associated with pain and dysfunction, including:

• Acid Reflux
• ADD/ADHD
• Allergies
• Anxiety
• Autism
• Chronic Fatigue
• Chronic Neck and Back Pain
• Colic
• Constipation
• Developmental Delays
• Digestive Problems
• Down Syndrome
• Ear Infections
• Emotional Difficulties
• Failure to Thrive
• Head-banging
• Migraine Headaches
• Physical/Emotional Abuse
• Plagiocephaly & Brachycephaly
• Pregnancy
• Scoliosis
• Seizures
• Sensory Processing Problems
• Stress & Tension-Related Problems
• Temporomandibular Joint Syndrome (TMJ)
• Torticollis
• Traumatic Brain & Spinal Cord Injuries
• Much more

Be Well,
Dr. Brooks
Whole Child Wellness
www.mychildwellness.com