William Garner Sutherland D.O (1873-1954) was an American osteopath and a student of Andrew Taylor Still. Although he discovered, developed and taught what he termed ‘Osteopathy in the Cranial Field’ during the early part of the 1900’s, he made it clear that the cranial understanding and approach was merely an extension of Still’s science of osteopathy.

Sutherland discovered the subtle palpable movement within the bones of the cranium and realised their intrinsic relationship to the rhythmic fluid expression and movement throughout the cranium and other tissues of the body. At this time, cranial sutures were said to be fused and unable to move in adulthood, but he understood that a given structure was designed in a way to fulfil a specified set of functions. He embarked upon years of detailed study of the bones of the skull and nervous system—even carrying out experimentation on the bones of his own head—restricting the movement of specific cranial bones and detailing their symptomatic outcomes. He named his discovery ‘The Primary Respiratory Mechanism’, one of fundamental physiological importance.

The primary respiratory mechanism describes the Involuntary Mechanism of movement carried through the organs, tissues and Membranous System of the body. This membranous (or connective) tissue forms a thin yet strong interconnected covering over the body’s organs, muscles, tendons, bones and joints. The membranous system synchronises all of the body’s respective parts through its extensive linking and reciprocal flow of motion. Physical stresses, strain and tension can interfere with the fluidity and ease of this movement expression, most of which can be palpated or felt by the osteopath.

Craniosacral therapy works in a similar way to Cranial Osteopathy — the main difference being the depth of study and duration of time involved in obtaining a qualification. Cranial osteopaths undergo four years training at degree level (and are considered primary healthcare professionals), whereas craniosacral therapists require just two years of training in order to achieve a diploma status. Craniosacral therapy has its roots in osteopathy but works solely via the ‘Cranio-Sacral System’, whereas osteopathy has a more extensive framework. Patients may find differences in the way that osteopathy and craniosacral therapist practice (depending on the training and experience of practitioner seen). It is advised that patients carry out additional research to understand more about the training, approach and experience of individual therapists. Practitioner websites will often detail training and experience, while also providing indicators to areas of special interest and professional approach. Referrals from friends and family members can be useful.