Treatment and Solutions

What is Visceral Manipulation?

Visceral Manipulation is a gentle form of manual therapy developed by Jean-Pierre Barral, an osteopathic physician and physical therapist. According to the work of Dr. Barral, the organs and the other structural elements of the body work in unison. A decrease in organ mobility has a profound effect on the musculoskeletal system. For example, adhesions to the lungs could affect rib mobility, adhesions to the uterus could affect pelvic dysfunction and incontinence, and adhesions to the kidneys could affect the spine. "But when one organ cannot move in harmony with its viscera due to abnormal tone, adhesions or displacement, it works against the body's other organ's and muscular, membranous, fascial and osseous structures: (The Upledger Institute).

Pain due to chronic inflammatory diseases, back or neck pain, and/or poor posture can influence an organ's motility or inherent motion. As the natural motion of the organ changes it begins to affect the mobility or movement of the organ and it's surrounding tissues. If this visceral system is not addressed, the pain cycle often continues. Visceral Manipulation is a highly specialized technique requiring the practitioner to have an intricate understanding of the body's anatomy in order to locate and mobilize the organ that is not moving freely. True specificity of the sluggish organ permits the unwinding of the tissues from around the organ. Other manual techniques do not have the same effect on the organs.

After a session, people report a sense of openness or lightness in the treated areas. This type of work is very effective when used with Myofascial Release and Muscle Energy.