Sacro Occipital Technique is a comprehensive technique which uses body indicators for determining skeletal, cranial, neurological and visceral malfunctions. This incorporates specific techniques which address changes in the extremities, pelvic and spinal bio-mechanics, cranial distortions and temporo manidibular joint dysfunctions.
SOT uses a variety of gentle and comfortable techniques to help restore normal function. Wedge shaped blocks are placed beneath the pelvis, using the weight of the body and breathing, to improve the balance and position of the pelvic bones. SOT also uses a variety of different techniques to help restore the subtle but important movement and alignment of the cranial bones.
The main aim of SOT is it tries to optimise CSF flow (the fluid that feeds and removes toxins from the central nervous system) and relax tension in the sensitive membranes around the brain and nerves, and improve movement in the spinal joints. Imaging scans have demonstrated improvement in the flow of the cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) during SOT treatment. This flow is caused by the cranial sacral respiratory mechanism, a subtle wavelike oscillation, which is thought to be vital for the normal functioning of the nervous system and therefore the total body.
SOT was developed by Major Bertrand Dejarnet, a chiropractor and osteopath. Dejarnet took the basic theory of cranial osteopathy and expanded upon it. Dejarnet was an interesting character, being the developer of the 3 colour process, which was bought by Kodak.
Sacro refers to sacrum, the key stone in the bridge of the pelvis and foundation of the spine. Occipital refers to the bone in the back and base of the skull, which rests on top of the spine. Sacro Occipital Technique focuses on optimizing the important relationship between these two areas of the body.
SOT is an extremely gentle, ideal for those who are wary of having their spine ‘cracked’, or who want a different approach to traditional chiropractic.