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by Emma Mayfield
Chapter Vice President
Pacific Northwest University of Health Sciences recently elected our student Osteopathic Cranial Academy chair. On December 9th, 2015, Dr. Bill Powell instructed a sutural approach to osteopathy in the cranial field that was open to first and second year medical students. During the workshop, students reviewed the anatomy of the skull, including each bone and each suture, were guided through the different cranial contacts for evaluating the sutures such as the vault, AP, and posterior cranial vault holds and had a discussion about the primary respiratory mechanism (PRM) and cranial rhythmic impulse (CRI). The anatomical structure and sutures of the cranium were emphasized, rather than focusing on CRI, which lead our students to be able to rapidly diagnose and understand the restriction of the skull. Dr. Powell taught us to balance the sutures in order to restore optimal function. Students were able to reduce restriction of the cranial sutures based on these principles. There were 30 medical students in attendance, as well as several practicing osteopathic physicians who wanted to refine their cranial techniques.
The workshop was a huge success, and everyone who participated left with a greater understanding and confidence in practicing cranial OMT. We are hoping to hold a similar event during Spring 2016. ❉
Sutural Approach to Osteopathy in the Cranial Field