In the cradle hold, where should the thumbs be placed?

• A. Along the mastoid process
• B. Across the jawline
• C. On the zygomatic arches
• D. On the occipital bone

Answer: (A)

The fundamental idea is to establish a light, stable contact that lets you sense the cranial rhythmic impulse without hindering the subtle motions of the cranial bones. In the cradle hold, place the hands as a gentle cradle around the head, with the thumbs resting along the mastoid processes. This location at the base of the skull near the occipitomastoid region gives you a reliable and sensitive contact to feel the tiny, bilateral movements of the cranial bones as they flex and extend with the CRI. It also keeps pressure away from the jaw and facial bones, so you’re not unintentionally altering the motion. Therefore, the thumbs should be placed along the mastoid processes.