The Origin of the Adult Brain Score
In 2007, Dr. Barry Gillespie pioneered the development of the Adult Brain Score (ABS), an advanced screening approach inspired by his earlier work on the Baby Brain Score (BBS). While the BBS was designed for newborns, ABS is tailored to evaluate adult neurophysiology, particularly focusing on craniosacral fascial imbalances that may have accumulated over a lifetime. Following the ABS assessment, Gillespie Approach–Craniosacral Fascial Therapy (CFT) is applied to alleviate any soft-tissue strain and restore optimal function to the craniosacral system.
Research and Findings (2007-2012)
From 2007 to 2012, Dr. Gillespie, along with Kristen and Michael Myers, researched and refined the craniosacral fascial approach. The team evaluated and treated a wide range of individuals, expanding their practice beyond neonatal care to adults suffering from various chronic conditions. The findings were clear: the fascial web, which encases the body’s tissues and organs, holds onto trauma from even the earliest stages of life. Dr. Gillespie’s insights were further detailed in his book, The Brain Score Approach, published in 2010.
The Future of the Gillespie Approach in Adult Care
Dr. Gillespie envisions a world where Craniosacral Fascial Therapy (CFT) becomes a standard intervention not only for newborns but also for adults experiencing chronic pain, tension, or unresolved trauma. He believes that by treating fascial restrictions early, adults can experience profound healing and improved quality of life. In the long term, his goal is to have every adult assessed using the ABS and treated with CFT to prevent and alleviate chronic health issues.
Addressing Trauma with Craniosacral Fascial Therapy
Trauma—whether physical or emotional—can cause the fascial web to tighten, affecting the craniosacral system. Adults may accumulate multiple layers of fascial restrictions throughout life, much like the peeling of an onion. From childhood accidents to surgical interventions, each trauma is stored in the fascial web, potentially limiting craniosacral motion.
CFT works by revisiting each layer of trauma, releasing these restrictions, and allowing the body to heal naturally. This therapeutic process can help adults regain the freedom of movement and functionality that may have diminished over time.
The Memory of Trauma in the Fascial Web
One of the most fascinating aspects of the craniosacral fascial system is its ability to retain the memory of trauma, even if the person believes they have fully recovered. This can explain chronic pain that appears unrelated to any recent injury. For instance, chronic head or neck pain at age 40 could be traced back to fascial strain in the pelvis during fetal development. Though the pain may seem to manifest later in life, the underlying cause could have been present since birth.
Fascination with the Craniosacral Fascial System
The space/time continuum aspect of the craniosacral fascial system is key to understanding why many adults continue to experience chronic issues despite leading generally healthy lives. The fascia remembers past trauma, and unless it is specifically addressed, it can restrict craniosacral motion, leading to various health complications. This insight reinforces the importance of early and ongoing fascial therapy.
CFT vs. CST: Understanding the Difference
A common question people ask is how Craniosacral Fascial Therapy (CFT) differs from Craniosacral Therapy (CST). CST primarily focuses on manipulating the craniosacral system, but CFT addresses the entire craniosacral fascial system. This comprehensive approach ensures that fascial restrictions, which can impact the craniosacral system, are also treated.
For example, a middle-aged patient with chronic migraines may have experienced multiple concussions as a child. If the fascial web is not addressed, standard CST treatments may offer only temporary relief. However, by releasing the fascial restrictions around the neck, hips, and other areas, the patient’s craniosacral motion improves, leading to more sustainable healing.
The Importance of Early and Comprehensive Treatment
Dr. Gillespie’s work emphasizes the importance of treating the entire craniosacral fascial system as early as possible to prevent long-term health issues. Whether addressing newborns or adults, his approach advocates for a full-body treatment that targets the root causes of many chronic conditions. Through Gillespie Approach Training, healthcare providers can learn how to deliver this holistic therapy, ensuring that every patient receives the best possible care from birth through adulthood.