The tentorium is part of the family of five diaphrams that we have in our body. When we have unresolved trauma, fear and tension trapped in our nervous system it can affect our tentorium and spine, and all our diaphrams. If left untreated, eventually it can affect our neurological health through the impairment of cerebro spinal fluid, increased inflammation in the brain and reduced lymphatic function. In this blog article I discuss the relationship between trauma, miragrains and the tentorium. Read my blog post about temporal lobe epilepsy and childhood trauma here
The tentorium cerebelli is a crucial structure in the brain that separates the cerebellum from the cerebral hemispheres. It is a tough, tent-shaped membrane that runs horizontally around the back of the skull. While it serves to protect and support the brain, it can also be an indicator of underlying tension and trauma. When the tentorium cerebelli is tight, it can cause various symptoms, such as headaches, neck pain, and dizziness. These symptoms may be related to chronic stress and trauma, as the body responds to these experiences by holding tension in various areas, including the tentorium cerebelli.
Understanding the connection between the tentorium cerebelli and chronic stress and trauma can be crucial in addressing these issues. By identifying and releasing tension in this area, individuals may be able to alleviate symptoms and improve their overall well-being. It may also be helpful to seek support from healthcare professionals who specialize in trauma-informed care and mind-body therapies.
What Is The Tentorium?
The tentorium cerebelli is a double-layered membrane located at the back of the cranium, approximately in line with the top of the ears. It separates the cerebrum from the cerebellum and is a tent-like structure over the top of the cerebellum.
It attaches to major bones in our cranium including
Occipital bone - Specifically, the internal occipital protuberance and the transverse sulcus
Temporal bones - Along the superior border of the petrous part of the temporal bone
Parietal bones - At the posteroinferior angles of the parietal bones
Sphenoid bone- Specifically, to the posterior clinoid processes of the sphenoid bone
Frontal bone- At the junction where it meets the parietal and sphenoid bones
Tension or damage to the tentorium can affect the mobility of these bones, and vice versa.
Additionally, the tentorium has a close relationship with the sinuses, particularly the straight sinus and sigmoid sinus. Furthermore, the tentorium is responsible for transmitting information about neck and head movements to the central nervous system through the cervical tract. When the tentorium is tight or damaged, it can impact the transmission of messages through the brain stem.
Chronic stress, especially when attempting to manage one's environment or emotions, can result in tension throughout the body, including the tentorium. This tension can cause pain and discomfort, comparable to a tightly stretched rubber band, which can be easily damaged or cause pain with even the slightest activation or tension. It's essential to prioritize self-care and take measures to relieve tension to avoid discomfort and maintain a healthy body.
What Does The Tentorium Do?
Imagine a hammock for your brain – that's the tentorium! This tough, tent-like structure cradles your cerebellum, keeping it safely tucked away from the weight of your cerebral hemispheres. But it's not just a comfy brain-bed; the tentorium acts as a natural shock absorber, protecting your delicate gray matter from the jolts and jostles of everyday life. Plus, it's a savvy space-saver, efficiently dividing your skull into upper and lower compartments, like a built-in organizer for your most precious organ.
Protection: The tentorium cerebelli acts as a barrier, protecting the brain from shock and injury. It provides a tough, tent-like structure that separates the cerebrum from the cerebellum, shielding the brain from potential damage caused by external forces.
Pressure Regulation: The tentorium cerebelli helps to regulate the pressure within the cranium, which is crucial for the proper functioning of the brain. It plays a critical role in the flow of cerebrospinal fluid, which is necessary for maintaining neurological health.
Structural Integrity: The tentorium cerebelli is an essential component of the membrane system that supports the brain. It helps to maintain the structural integrity of this system, which is necessary for the proper functioning of the brain.
Communication: The tentorium cerebelli communicates mechanical, neurological, and sensory imprints through the body. This is because there is a plexus, a group of nerves that acts like a control center, within the membrane. The plexus carries rich information that allows the tentorium to adapt to incoming stimuli, including pressure and movement. This communication helps to coordinate movements and sensory information throughout the body.
How Childhood Trauma Creates Tension in the Tentorium & Migraines
When a child experiences continuous fear and the trauma remains held in the body, as an adult the nervous system can become stuck in a state of hyperarousal (sympathetic activation) or hypoarousal (dorsal vagal shutdown). This can affect the tentorium which becomes thicker and more tight, leading to increased inter cranial pressure, decreased mobility in the temporal area, and tension in the cervical spine. It can also lead to migraines.
Childhood trauma can create tension in the tentorium and contribute to migraines through a complex interplay of physiological and neurological processes:
Chronic stress response: Trauma activates the body's stress response system, leading to prolonged release of stress hormones like cortisol and adrenaline.
Muscle tension: Chronic stress causes persistent muscle tension, including in the neck and head, which can affect the tentorium's tension.
Nervous system dysregulation: Trauma can disrupt the balance of the autonomic nervous system, leading to a state of chronic hyperarousal or hypoarousal.
Altered brain structure: Childhood trauma can affect brain development, potentially changing the structure and function of areas involved in pain processing.
Sensitization of the trigeminal system: The trigeminal nerve, which innervates the tentorium, can become hypersensitive due to chronic stress.
Disrupted cerebrospinal fluid dynamics: Chronic tension can affect the flow of cerebrospinal fluid, potentially impacting intracranial pressure.
Fascial restrictions: Trauma can create restrictions in the fascial system, including the dura mater and tentorium.
(HPA) axis dysfunction: Trauma can alter this crucial system, affecting hormonal balance and pain perception.
Inflammatory responses: Chronic stress can lead to systemic inflammation, potentially affecting the meninges and blood vessels.
Altered pain thresholds: Trauma can lower pain thresholds, making individuals more susceptible to migraine triggers.
Releasing the Tentorium
Photo From: Osteopathic Manipulative Treatment
Releasing tension, heaviness and pressure in the tentorium needs to be done holistically and the whole spine, particularly the cervical and upper thoracic needs to be supported with any compensatory patterns addressed. It is also good to release the diaphragm and pelvic floor.
It may feel like a thick rubber band that has been stretched, rather than a soft and adaptable tissue.
Restriction in the normal rhythmic movement of the cranial bones, particularly at the attachment points of the tentorium.
Palpable increase in tension along the margins where the tentorium connects to the skull, especially at the lateral angles.
Cranial rhythm might feel compressed or restricted, with a decreased amplitude in the craniosacral motion.
Lack of give or springiness when gently testing the mobility of the occiput and temporal bones.
Sense of increased pressure or congestion in the posterior fossa area, as if the space below the tentorium is compressed.
The overall cranial system may feel less compliant, with a reduced ability to accommodate subtle changes in pressure and fluid dynamics.
Asymmetry in the tension, with one side feeling tighter or more restricted than the other.
By engaging with the tentorium through gentle touch and subtle pressure, a craniosacral therapist can release tension, increase tone, and restore flexibility to the membrane. This can result in the expansion of the cranium and the widening of the brain, dural membranes, and cranial bones.
Additionally, the spine and dural tube can lengthen, promoting the flow of fluid and drainage of cerebrospinal fluid, which supports the glymphatic system's ability to carry fluids away from the brain. Clients often report experiencing a sense of relief and relaxation, as well as a feeling of expansion or becoming heavier.
Restoring the tentorium to its supple and supportive role can also increase freedom and flexibility in the cranial bones and other membranes, such as the falx cerebri, which can have a beneficial effect on the sinus system.
What My Clients Say
"I had consistent neck pain and headaches which had persisted for many years. Safa immediately made me aware of exactly how these physical pains were linked to my buried emotional issues and trauma I held in certain areas of my body. She helped me shift these in just a few sessions. My headaches have now practically gone! Safa's healing approach is so compassionate and personal. The sessions are so powerful and yet I always feel safe with her. I now feel so much more positive about many aspects of my life and my health. It feels so good to be pain free!"
"I came to see Safa with dissociation, upper body tension, cranial fluid leaks after a severe concussion which left me with sinus issues, headaches and a constantly runny nose. For at least six years my nervous system has been dysregulated, my body would often shake with fear and I would have lots of teary outbursts. After six weeks my physical symptoms are gone. I have also healed my dissociation and learnt how to trust my own body again. I am now feeling connected with my organs and I feel my heart and brain have reconnected. Spinal work realigned my spine and helped me to release deep anger from trauma that my body was holding in relation to childhood trauma."
Read more testimonials and transformation stories here