Common, chronic patterns of postural and neuromusculoskeletal (NMS) compensations resistant to lasting interventions, are frequently identified in the general population. The literature supports critical factors in global NMS patterning: the continuity of connective tissues, the mobility of the cranial components and the effects of postural reflex mechanisms on NMS function. However, the reciprocal, functional relationships between NMS compensatory patterns and the contiguous strain patterns of the cranium are poorly understood. The intent of this dissertation is to propose new explanatory concepts regarding relationships between cranial components and neuromusculoskeletal function and to put forth ideas for future research.

The author's years of clinical practice evaluating relationships between cranial and somatic components and patterns of NMS compensation have provided evidence for his craniosomatic concept. He has observed multiple, simultaneously-occurring, chronic patterns of NMS compensation which appear to be secondary to, and maintained by, specific chronic cranial strain patterns. He has identified and correlated many functional relationships between these common patterns of NMS compensation and specific patterns of cranial restrictions, which he has named Primary Cranial Patterns. His search for effective treatment of these NMS compensations led him to develop new concepts and new cranial procedures, which use firm-handed techniques to alter soft tissue holding patterns, with the express goal of releasing Primary Cranial Patterns and associated NMS compensations.

The manual of cranial manipulative techniques, CranioStructural Integration, embodies and supports the proposed concepts by presenting detailed instructions for performing new cranial techniques designed to resolve specific NMS compensations and provide long-term improvements in musculoskeletal function and posture. The results appear to demonstrate that specific cranial strain patterns are primary: responsible for maintaining the associated chronic NMS compensatory patterns.

The evidence-based protocol, with pre- and posttreatment evaluations and clearly articulated expected outcomes, is a distinctly mechanical, structural approach to cranial treatment. The concepts and techniques are unique contributions to the treatment of common NMS compensations. They suggest a new paradigm for practitioners in physical medicine and raise provocative questions.