Before beginning the myoskeletal undulating maneuver, I ask the supine client to move to the top of the therapy table so I can firmly grasp their head with both hands. Next, I slowly step to my right foot (not permitting the head to side-bend or rotate), then back to the left, rhythmically repeating this gentle and relaxing side-to-side motion (Image 3.).

The rhythmic rocking movement of undulation not only helps relieve tension and tightness where the head meets the neck (Atlanto-occipital joint), but it can also assess how freely the entire spine is moving. Just remember to focus on keeping the client’s eyes in the same plane as you sway back and forth with this alligator-swaying motion. During the rhythmic undulating technique, my intent is to try to get all the spinal segments swinging and swaying with me. If I encounter a restriction, I do as the founder of osteopathy, A.T. Still, once said: “Roll the bones and they’ll come home.” As the joints regain their optimal alignment and the brain begins to associate this innate swaying movement with safety instead of pain, I have found that much of the protective muscle guarding melts away. As you might have guessed, the key to unleashing the power of undulation is rhythm. I always want to make this maneuver as smooth and relaxing as possible. In my experience, the rhythmic swaying motion calms clients with hyperexcited nervous systems and lowers the threat level in those dealing with old, unresolved injury problems.