Visceral Manipulations

Visceral Manipulation is a manual therapy technique consisting of gentle, precisely placed manual forces that encourage the normal mobility, tone, and inherent tissue motion of the viscera and connective tissue. The visceral system relies on the interconnected synchronicity of the organs' motions and the body's support structures. A restriction, fixation, or adhesion to another structure, no matter how small, implies functional impairment of the organ.

Tissues lose their normal motion when they become inflamed. Many factors can cause inflammation, including infections, direct trauma (surgery, falls, accidents, abuse), repetitious movement, diet, environmental toxins, and emotional stress. Unfortunately, once adhesions form, they typically remain in the body for a lifetime if left untreated. 

The goal of treatment is to decrease adhesions and improve organ function. The practitioner uses her hands to locate abnormal tensions in and around your body's organs, muscles, connective tissues, and support structures. She applies gentle and precise pressure where indicated to assist your body in releasing the mobility-restricting adhesions, thus utilizing your body's ability to self-correct. She always works within your tolerance and comfort level.

Visceral Manipulation (VM) was developed by world-renowned French Osteopath and Physical Therapist Jean-Pierre Barral - more information.

Comparative studies found Visceral Manipulation beneficial for various disorders:

  • Acute Disorders - Whiplash, Seatbelt Injuries, Chest or Abdominal Sports Injuries, Concussion, Traumatic Brain Injuries

  • Women's and Men's Health Issues - Chronic Pelvic Pain, Endometriosis, Fibroids and Cysts, Dysmenorrhea, Bladder Incontinence, Prostate Dysfunction, Referred Testicular Pain, Effects of Menopause

  • Emotional Issues - Anxiety and Depression, Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder

  • Digestive Disorders - Bloating and Constipation, Nausea and Acid Reflux, GERD, Swallowing Dysfunctions

  • Musculoskeletal Disorders - Somatic-Visceral Interactions, Chronic Spinal Dysfunction, Headaches and Migraines, Carpal Tunnel Syndrome, Peripheral Joint Pain, Sciatica

  • Pain Related to Post-operative Scar Tissue, Post-infection Scar Tissue, Autonomic Mechanisms.