The Sacro-Occipital Technique (also referred to as SOT) is a
commonly used chiropractic technique developed by osteopath and chiropractor
Major Bertrand DeJarnette. The name refers to the sacrum or "tail bone" (the last major bone of the spinal
column) and the occiput or base of
the skull. The technique is based on normalizing the relationship between these
two ends of the spinal column. SOT is practiced by an estimated 49% of
chiropractors.
The Sacro-Occipital Technique itself is performed by
analyzing the condition of the patient's spine in three positions – vertical,
prone (lying face down), and supine (lying face up). The SOT practitioner then
analyzes the nerve health and flow of cerebro-spinal fluid from the brain to
the spine, and makes adjustments to improve this flow. During this process the
practitioner may palpate the skull to make adjustments to the actual cranial
bones, while simultaneously massaging or "pumping" various vertebrae
to remove blockages that could interfere with cerebro-spinal fluid flow. The
SOT practitioner often uses the weight of the patient's own body to correct
abnormalities in the body. For example, treatment may involve placing
wedge-shaped foam cushions under certain parts of the body to realign the
pelvis as the patient reclines on them.
Like other chiropractic techniques, SOT seeks to correct
abnormalities in the spine that produce back, arm, and leg pain, headaches, and
dizziness. Patients suffering from migraines, neck and shoulder pain, fatigue
and nervous disorders can benefit immediately from Sacro-Occipital
manipulation. However the main goal of a chiropractic SOT treatment is not to
eliminate or reduce pain, it is to normalize the function of the brain and
spinal cord, which constitute the central nervous system. The Sacro-Occipital
Technique seeks to improve the overall transmission of nerve impulses from the
brain down the spine and to other areas of the body.
Equal emphasis is placed in SOT treatment on the proper positioning
of the pelvis. The spine and skull, shoulders and arms are supported above the
pelvis, and the legs and feet are supported below. Thus an improperly aligned
pelvis can cause postural irregularities, problems with normal functioning of
the skull and jaw, and muscular dysfunction. As the name sacro-occipital
implies, SOT treatment focuses on both ends of the spine, because they are so
interrelated. By correcting imbalances both in the skull and in the pelvis,
communication is improved along the entire spinal column.
Author Bio:
Dr. Matt Ramirez graduated with a degree in Bachelor of Human Biology in 2004 and received his Doctor of Chiropractic Degree in 2006. He specializes in auto injury recovery and chronic back pain and has enhanced and improved thousands of lives as well as treated people of all ages over the years. He is also an expert in health and wellness, massage therapy, chiropractic care, and more...
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