Many advances have been forthcoming since Dr. William Sutherland discovered cranial motion in 1939. Because of his pioneering efforts, osteopathic and chiropractic physicians have achieved many miraculous results utilizing craniopathic principles. In recent years, widespread publication of craniopathy, has stimulated a grass roots interest within the dental profession. Cranial bone motion does exist and at present there are documented references 1,2,3,4,5,6 pointing to this fact. The significance of this discovery goes far beyond the mere fact that these bones move.
Cranial motion represents part of the craniosacral respiratory mechanism.
The inherent motion of the central nervous system is transmitted via the cerebrospinal fluid to the dural membranes, which in turn control and influence the cranial bones and sacrum. The function of this primary respiratory mechanism underlies the essence of life itself. For years, TMJ specialists, osteopaths and craniopaths have recognized the need to maintain cranial bone motion when restoring the dentition. Because of men like Al Fonder, Hal Ravins, Carl Mestman, Willie May, Justine Jones, Stephen Smith and others many of the conventional dental concepts are being challenged. Physiologic dentists are concentrating their efforts on educating the health profession of the far reaching structural and neurologic consequences that conventional techniques have and their disruptive effects on the cranio-sacral primary respiratory mechanism.