CST, a little-known form of alternative therapy, is beginning to become more popular but most people still have no idea what it is about.

Cordula Hallensleben is a trained doctor but has always had an interest in alternative treatments such as acupuncture and Chinese medicine.

A friend told her about a form of therapy which was growing in popularity but still not widely known.

CranioSacral Therapy (CST) is a gentle, non-invasive technique which helps with a wide range of common conditions such as migraines, neck and back pain, stress-related problems and orthopaedic and dental problems.

It is particularly effective for babies, releasing the after-effects and stress of birth and thus reducing colic and crying. In older children, it can help treat learning difficulties such as attention deficit disorder and dyslexia.

CST acts on the craniosacral system, which comprises the membranes and cerebrospinal fluid around the core of the nervous system.

This system surrounds, nourishes and protects the brain and spinal cord and has a rhythm which can be felt throughout the body.

Using a touch generally no heavier than the weight of a small coin, practitioners can monitor this rhythm anywhere on the body to pinpoint the source of a restriction or stress.

Once a source has been determined, the practitioner can assist the natural movement of the fluid and related soft tissue to help the body correct itself.

CST encourages the body's natural healing mechanisms to improve the operation of the central nervous system, dissipate the negative effects of stress, enhance health and strengthen resistance to disease.

Cordula, 36, trained as a CST therapist two years ago but still goes on regular courses to learn more about different techniques.

She carries out treatments at her home in Burgess Hill and has built up a steady stream of customers.

She said: "The feedback has been very good. People are willing to give things a try and have been surprised by the results.

"We encourage people to focus on the problem they have and to try to visualise it. By concentrating on the physical and emotional aspects, the treatment can be successful.

"Each session tends to last for about an hour. Some people go on to have several treatments but usually the results start to show quite quickly.

"The aim is to keep babies calm and relaxed. Because it is non-invasive and gentle, it can be used on people of any age.

"I've used it on my own children and the results have been very good. Obviously it cannot always work but for the majority of people it can make a lot of difference."

CST acts on the deepest structures and organs of the nervous system, influencing motor, pain and co-ordination mechanisms, the digestive system, the respiratory system and heart function.

It can be a very relaxing experience and may also help resolve emotional issues which can play a major role in inhibiting good physical health.

A CST session takes place in a quiet, relaxing environment and the patients remain fully-dressed, wearing loose, comfortable clothes.

The treatment is performed with the patient lying on his or her back or side on a treatment table.

Experiences during treatment are individual and can vary with each treatment.

Patients may deeply relax and fall asleep or, at other times, talk a lot, revealing memories or expressing emotions.

CST was orignally developed by American osteopath John Upledger.

In 1970, during surgery on a patient's neck, he saw the distinct, regular movement of the dural tube, the tough membrane which surrounds and protects the spinal cord.

Curious as to whether this movement had previously been observed, he discovered the work of William Sutherland, who had originally developed cranial osteopathy.

Dr Upledger and a research team investigated and demonstrated some of the key aspects of cranial work and established a scientific basis for the craniosacral system.

Since then, thousands of healthcare professionals, including osteopaths, doctors, chiropractors, dentists and midwives have studied the therapeutic value of the craniosacral system at the Upledger Institute.

For more details about the therapy, call Cordula on 07092 356460.