What is the main axis involved in cranial torsion?

Cranial torsion primarily involves one anteroposterior (AP) axis. In the context of cranial osteopathy, torsion refers to a specific type of cranial movement where the two sphenoid bones rotate around an axis that runs from the front (anterior) to the back (posterior) of the skull. This movement results in one side of the cranium moving superiorly while the opposite side moves inferiorly, creating a twisting effect.

This movement is different from other cranial movements such as flexion/extension or lateral strain, which involve different axes. The anteroposterior axis is crucial in understanding cranial mechanisms, as it directly relates to the orientation of the sphenoid relative to the occiput and other cranial bones during torsional movements. This movement is key in osteopathic manipulative treatment and emphasizes the importance of understanding cranial dynamics in patient assessment and treatment.