What Is Sacro Occipital Technique?
Sacro Occipital Technique (SOT) is a specialised chiropractic method that focuses on the relationship between the sacrum (base of the spine) and the occiput (base of the skull). The technique aims to restore balance in the body by addressing structural and neurological connections between the spine, pelvis, and nervous system.
SOT was developed by Major Bertrand DeJarnette, who combined chiropractic principles with concepts from biomechanics and neurology to create a comprehensive system of assessment and treatment.
This approach is unique because it focuses not only on spinal adjustments but also on pelvic balance, cranial function, and the movement of cerebrospinal fluid.
How Sacro Occipital Technique Works
SOT is based on the concept that the sacrum and skull influence the function of the entire spine and nervous system. When these areas are out of balance, it can affect posture, nerve communication, and overall body function.
Chiropractors trained in SOT use several methods to assess and treat spinal imbalance, including:
Pelvic Blocking
Specialised wedge-shaped blocks are placed under the pelvis while the patient lies face up. Gravity and body weight help gently correct pelvic alignment without forceful adjustments.
Cranial Adjusting
Gentle techniques may be used to address movement and tension within the skull and its relationship to the spine.
Spinal Adjustments
Specific adjustments may be performed to improve motion in the spine and restore proper joint function.
Soft Tissue Techniques
Muscle and ligament tension around the spine and pelvis may be treated to support long-term stability.
Categories of Sacro Occipital Technique
SOT uses a classification system to identify different patterns of spinal and pelvic imbalance:
Category I
Involves dysfunction between the sacrum and occiput that may affect cerebrospinal fluid circulation and neurological balance. Category one occurs when the sacroiliac joints become misaligned or subluxated. This may cause the hips to rotate and tilt the sacrum.
When the sacrum tilts, it impacts its pumping ability, reducing the cerebro-spinal fluid circulation. This can affect many tissues and organs within the body.
Category II
Focuses on sacroiliac joint instability, which can affect pelvic alignment and spinal mechanics. Category two happens when ligaments holding the sacroiliac joints are stretched or sprained, allowing joint surfaces to separate. This separation disrupts the body’s balance, nervous system and spine right up to the neck, shoulders, and cranial system.
Category III
Involves disc injury or spinal compression, often associated with lower back pain or nerve irritation.
Between all spinal vertebrae is a disc. Each disc serves as shock absorbers as well as spacers between bones. When the body is in harmony, the discs allow enough space between bones for nerves to exit. When the body is out of balance, these spaces can be compromised by an alteration to the disc, which can put the nerve under pressure.
These categories help chiropractors determine the most appropriate treatment approach.
Conditions Commonly Treated
Sacro Occipital Technique may be used to help manage a range of musculoskeletal conditions, including:
- Sciatica
- Herniated disc
- Degenerative disc disease
- Spinal stenosis
- Lower back pain
- Pelvic imbalance
- Neck pain
- Headaches related to spinal tension
Because the technique is gentle and low-force, it may also be appropriate for patients who prefer a more subtle approach to chiropractic care.
What to Expect During Treatment
A typical SOT session may include:
1. Comprehensive assessment – The chiropractor evaluates posture, spinal movement, and pelvic alignment.
2. Category identification – Specific tests determine which SOT category applies.
3. Pelvic blocking – Blocks may be placed under the pelvis to help correct alignment.
4. Targeted treatment – The chiropractor may perform spinal adjustments, cranial work, or soft tissue therapy.
Treatment is generally comfortable and non-invasive, with many patients reporting a gentle feeling of release during care.
Benefits of Sacro Occipital Technique
Patients often choose SOT because it:
- Uses gentle, low-force techniques
- Focuses on whole-body balance
- Addresses pelvic alignment and spinal mechanics
- May support nervous system function
- Can be combined with other chiropractic methods
The technique is often used as part of a comprehensive chiropractic treatment plan.
Is Sacro Occipital Technique Safe?
When performed by a trained chiropractor, Sacro Occipital Technique is generally considered safe and well tolerated.
Because pelvic blocking and cranial techniques are non-forceful, SOT may be suitable for patients who:
- Preder gentle chiropractic care
- Have acute pain
- Have difficulty tolerating stronger manual adjustments
However, your chiropractor will determine whether this technique is appropriate based on your individual condition and medical history.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Sacro Occipital Technique the same as cranial therapy?
While SOT may include cranial work, it is a broader chiropractic system that focuses on the relationship between the sacrum, spine, and skull.
Does SOT involve cracking the spine?
Not always. Some treatments involve gentle pelvic blocking and soft tissue work rather than traditional spinal adjustments.
How many treatments are needed?
The number of sessions varies depending on the condition being treated and how the patient responds to care.
Find Chiropractors Offering Sacro Occipital Technique
Many chiropractors use Sacro Occipital Technique as part of a holistic approach to spinal and nervous system health.
Use our directory to find chiropractors trained in Sacro Occipital Technique near you and explore treatment options available in your area.