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Cranial Osteopathy: Obscurantism and Enlightenment
Bruno Bordoni1, Bruno Morabito2, Marta Simonelli3
1Cardiology, Foundation Don Carlo Gnocchi, Milan, ITA.
Cureus
|July 30, 2019
Summary
Cranial osteopathic manipulative medicine (OMM) faces controversy, but scientific evidence suggests fascial connections allow palpation to influence meninges. This may impact extracranial areas and improve osteopathic clinical work.
Area of Science:
- Osteopathic manipulative medicine
- Neuroscience
- Anatomy
Background:
- Cranial osteopathic manipulative medicine (OMM) is controversial, particularly regarding the spheno-basilar synchondrosis and primary respiration in adults.
- The concept of osteopathic practitioners palpating meninges is challenging given adult ossification patterns.
Purpose of the Study:
- To explore scientific evidence supporting cranial osteopathy.
- To provide insights for osteopaths to enhance clinical practice.
Main Methods:
- Review of anatomical and scientific literature.
- Integration of concepts from quantum physics and neuroscience.
Main Results:
- The fascial system connects the operator's hands to the meninges, challenging traditional anatomical layering.
- Meningeal afferents can influence extracranial regions.
- Pericranial musculature plays a role in modulating meningeal afferents.
Conclusions:
- Scientific information, including fascial continuity and neuro-afferent pathways, supports the theoretical basis of cranial OMM.
- Understanding these mechanisms can aid osteopaths in refining their clinical approach.
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