Advanced Cranial Technique
Cranial Facial Release
An advanced endo-nasal cranial technique for treating neurological and structural disorders. Also known as the balloon technique, nasal release technique, and endonasal cranial adjusting. A non-drug, non-surgical approach to wellness.
What is Cranial Facial Release?
Cranial Facial Release (CFR) is an advanced endo-nasal cranial technique that has been used quite successfully in the treatment of various neurological and structural disorders. It was derived from an earlier form called Bilateral Nasal Specific (BNS) pioneered by Dr. Richard Stober in the 1970s and 80s, and originated by Dr. Adam J. Del Torto, DC.
The objective of CFR is to induce mobility in the cranial system (specifically the sphenoid bone) with the purpose of facilitating normal cranial respiratory function. The technique uses tiny balloons inserted in the nose (naso-pharynx) then quickly inflated to mobilize the cranial bones. The whole procedure takes about 2-3 seconds. A series typically begins with treatments over several days, followed by a re-evaluation to determine next steps.
Sometimes referred to as the balloon technique or endonasal technique, this balloon-assisted cranial adjusting method is also known as the nasal release technique and sphenoid bone adjustment.
Patients who seek CFR treatment are usually people who have been through the gamut and are looking for an alternative non-drug, non-surgical approach to wellness.
Conditions That Respond to CFR
How CFR Works
It is important to know that the skull is NOT one solid bone. It is made up of 22 individual bones that join together and actually move every time you breathe (or they are supposed to).
Aberrations of the cranial system are very common. Causes include birth trauma, bumps on the head, orthodontic procedures, drug use, whiplash injuries, severe head trauma, and more.
Self-Check for Cranial Issues
Using a mirror, check for facial asymmetries that may indicate cranial problems:
- One earlobe lower than the other
- One eye higher or wider than the other
- Nostril asymmetries or nose deviations
- Jaw not centered properly
- Jaw deviates to one side when opening
The Science Behind CFR
This "cranial respiratory motion" works in direct conjunction with "sacral respiratory motion" and is the key mechanism by which Cerebral Spinal Fluid (CSF) is produced and circulated throughout the brain and spinal cord. This is essential to normal brain function.
The Pituitary gland (the "master gland") sits right on top of the sphenoid bone. Proper respiratory motion of the sphenoid bone is necessary for normal pituitary-hypothalamus function.
Research Support
"Slight mechanical torque on the control centers of the brain, and especially the pituitary-hypothalamus complex caused destructive pathologies throughout the entire body."
— Dr. A.D. Speransky, M.D., All Union Institute of Experimental Medicine, 1930s (10-year study identifying 80+ disorders attributed to mechanical torque)Dr. Rueger's Approach
Dr. Rueger combines her CFR procedures with SOT protocols and conventional cranial techniques as taught by Dr. Major Dejarnette, Dr. Marc Pick, DC, and Dr. John Upledger, D.O. This combination is often used with chiropractic care, cold laser therapy, nutritional counseling, myofascial releases, and BodyTalk.
The number of series varies by patient; some need only a few, while others benefit from multiple series over several months.
CFR Treatment Video
Interested in CFR Treatment?
Call or text to schedule a consultation with Dr. Rueger.