Living with Osteogenesis Imperfecta (OI), commonly known as Brittle Bone Disease, comes with a unique set of challenges, and sometimes specialized therapies like Craniosacral Therapy is needed. For those of us with this rare condition, maintaining mobility and managing pain are top priorities. Despite the risks of bone fractures, physical therapy and regular exercise can play a critical role in improving our quality of life.
While activities like swimming are widely beneficial for individuals with OI, I’ve discovered that Craniosacral Therapy (CST) has been the most transformative form of therapy for me. It has not only helped manage my chronic pain but has also improved my overall well-being.
Physical Therapy and Osteogenesis Imperfecta
You might assume that people with Brittle Bone Disease need to avoid physical activity to prevent fractures. In reality, movement is crucial. Gentle forms of exercise, such as swimming or water walking, help reduce breakage rates, improve breathing, and alleviate pain. However, not all forms of physical therapy are beneficial for individuals with OI.
For years, I participated in traditional physical therapy programs, but many of the exercises designed for “normal” bodies caused more harm than good. Instead of improving my condition, they increased my pain and frequency of fractures. That’s when I turned to Craniosacral Therapy.
What Is Craniosacral Therapy?
Craniosacral Therapy (CST) is a gentle, hands-on technique that focuses on stabilizing the rhythm between the head and the tailbone by working with the soft tissue and central nervous system. By restoring balance to this system, CST helps the body align naturally, easing pain and improving overall function.
The therapy combines elements of gentle massage and chiropractic work with energy-focused techniques. It’s a deeply specialized field, requiring practitioners to have an extensive understanding of anatomy and the body’s intricate systems.
Finding the Right Craniosacral Therapist
Not all CST practitioners are created equal. Some massage therapists offer basic CST techniques, but without an in-depth education in anatomy, they may not deliver the full benefits of this therapy. That’s why it’s critical to seek out a highly qualified professional with experience in physical therapy and craniosacral work.
For me, that professional is Myra Buller, PT, CST.
My Journey with Myra Buller
I’ve been working with Myra since I was eight years old. With over 30 years of experience as a physical therapist—and 20 of those focused on craniosacral therapy—Myra is among the best in her field. She specializes in trauma, pediatrics, and geriatrics, and she treats patients of all ages in Baton Rouge and New Orleans.
Every week, Myra helps me manage the progression of my severe scoliosis, which is a significant source of my daily pain. She realigns my neck, which frequently pops out due to weak ligaments, and addresses any pain points I’m experiencing that day. One of the most remarkable aspects of her work is her ability to run energy to accelerate the healing of broken bones. This has made a noticeable difference in reducing my pain and recovery time.
Why Craniosacral Therapy Works for Chronic Illness
For individuals living with chronic illnesses like OI, CST offers a gentle and effective alternative to traditional therapies. It targets the root causes of pain and misalignment, providing relief for:
- Neck, head, and back injuries
- Neurological issues
- Pain associated with congenital diseases, including Brittle Bone Disease
If traditional methods haven’t worked for you, I strongly recommend giving Craniosacral Therapy a try.
How to Get Started with Craniosacral Therapy
If you’re interested in exploring CST, finding the right therapist is key. If you’re in Louisiana, I’d be happy to help you schedule an appointment with Myra. As her scheduler (yes, I wear many hats!), I can tell you she has a waitlist—her skills are in high demand—but she’s well worth the wait.
Discover More About CST
Beyond her exceptional therapy skills, Myra has also trusted me with designing her logo, business cards, and website. Her site is a great resource for learning more about Craniosacral Therapy and its benefits for conditions like Osteogenesis Imperfecta and other chronic illnesses.
Living with Brittle Bone Disease has taught me to seek out therapies that work for my unique body, and CST has been a game-changer. If you’re looking for a path to relief, I can’t recommend it highly enough.