Encyclopedia of Health and Medicine

craniosacral massage 65
supplementation to prevent the onset of type 2
DIABETES have so far yielded no evidence that it
can do so. Nor is there any conclusive evidence
that coenzyme Q10 has any ability to enhance
IMMUNE SYSTEM function, though all of these effects
have theoretical potential. Across the spectrum of
health knowledge, coenzyme Q10 is a relatively
new discovery and much remains for researchers
and doctors to learn and understand about its natural
functions in the body as well as the benefits
and possible risks of supplements.
Coenzyme Q10 is available in the United States
as a dietary supplement that does not require a
doctor’s prescription to obtain. It does not appear
to have side effects or interactions with other substances,
though health experts encourage people
to talk with their doctors about taking it if they
are taking medications to treat health conditions,
especially hypertension and heart failure. Pregnant
or BREASTFEEDING mothers probably should
not take coenzyme Q10 as researchers know little
about how it might affect infants. Coenzyme Q10
is fat soluble; the body best absorbs it with foods
that contain some dietary fat.
COENZYME Q10
uses Risks/Side Effects Interactions
HYPERTENSION none known none known
HEART FAILURE
recovery after
HEART ATTACK
periodontitis
See also LIFESTYLE AND CARDIOVASCULAR HEALTH;
PERIODONTAL DISEASE.
craniosacral massage A form of bodywork, also
called craniosacral therapy, in which the practitioner
gently manipulates the head, neck, and
spine to balance the fluids around the head and
SPINAL CORD. The movement of this fluid, in the
context of craniosacral massage, is the cranial
rhythmic impulse. The intended goal is somatoemotional
release, the discharge of physical and
emotional tension the head and spine hold as a
result of stress and daily experiences. Injuries may
also contribute to the tension.
For many people the experience evokes the
sensation of floating or dreaming and is profoundly
relaxing. Though the craniosacral therapist’s
movements are gentle and touch is very
light, there is a sensation of movement throughout
the body. Sometimes the craniosacral therapist
will also manipulate the spine, though also very
gently and not at all in the way a chiropractor performs
spinal manipulation.
A craniosacral therapist is usually trained and
licensed (in compliance with relevant state
requirements) as a massage therapist or physical
therapist, though some naturopathic physicians,
chiropractors, and osteopathic physicians also
have training in craniosacral techniques. As with
all touch therapy, it is important to feel comfortable
with, and trust, the practitioner. The manipulations
of the body release stored physical and
emotional energy that can result in unexpected
surges of feelings and even discomfort. But nearly
everyone feels deeply relaxed following a craniosacral
massage.
See also CHIROPRACTIC; MASSAGE THERAPY;
MIND–BODY INTERACTIONS; PHYSICAL THERAPY.