Visceral Manipulation
Visceral manipulation is a manual therapy technique that addresses the body’s internal organs and the tissues that anchor them to one another and to the skeletal system. Spinal Dynamics offers visceral manipulation services as a specialty or as an adjunct to physical therapy treatment.
The visceral system relies on the “interconnectedness” of the motions of organs and structures of the body. Optimally, this system is both stable and mobile during the body’s endless varieties of movement. Pain and dysfunction can result when organs and surrounding tissues do not move in harmony. Symptoms may present locally, or may present in areas quite distant from the actual place of restriction.
A wide range of symptoms
Beyond muscle and joint pain, patients may also complain of heartburn, constipation, abdominal cramping, irritable bowel, limitations in breathing, and abdominal pressure. Patients should be medically evaluated for disease and major health issues prior to initiating visceral manipulation. Often, after diagnostic testing and trials of medication, visceral manipulation can be the missing link to recovery of many abdominal area conditions.
Consider an example of endometriosis where pelvic adhesions cause pain. In this scenario, the body experiences abnormal tension and may develop shifts in posture or gait. These shifts could lead pelvic or back pain, incontinence, leg muscle strain, spinal mobility limitations, or other challanges.
Gentle techniques help restore mobility, relieve pain
To perform visceral manipulation, therapists use their hands to evaluate the abdominal area. Gentle hands-on techniques help restore mobility and tone, allowing the body to move more efficiently and with less pain. Visceral manipulation used in combination with traditional physical therapy can be an ideal approach in improving symptoms in ligaments, muscles, joints and organs.
Visceral manipulation techniques can be effective for:
• post-surgical treatment
• traumatic injuries
• pelvic floor disorder (including incontinence)
• symptoms related to pregnancy and childbirth
• back pain
• extremity pain
• respiratory, abdominal and gastro-intestinal disorders
Many physicians are not aware of the benefits of visceral manipulation techniques. If you have a condition that you think may improve with visceral manipulation, we are happy to communicate with your physician and help you facilitate a consultation with us. You may contact our office at (414)302-0770.
Read a book overview on visceral manipulation by pioneer Jean-Pierre Barral >>