Visceral Manipulation
What is Visceral Manipulation?
Visceral manipulation addresses the mobility and motility of our organs. Our organs need mobility to be able to slide and glide within our abdomen for movements from breathing to athletic activity. They also have their own rhythmical movement apart from our heart beat and breath that needs to be maintained (motility). Just as in any other part of our body, we can develop restrictions, adhesions, and dysfunctions within our organs as well. In performing visceral manipulation techniques, we are able to restore both mobility and motility, improving our overall health.
Why Visceral Manipulation?
Our organs are easily susceptible to developing adhesions and dysfunction after injury (whiplash, a fall, etc), surgery (abdominal, thoracic, heart, hernia repairs, etc), pregnancy, illness or infections, GI dysfunction, secondary to an orthopedic injury (due to the nervous system), and as a result of emotional trauma which can be dealing with every day stressors. Just as the rest of our physical body responds to treatment, our internal organs have the potential to heal as well with some help.
What is Visceral Manipulation Commonly Used For?
Visceral manipulation has been used for, but not limited to the following:
- Abdominal Adhesions Post Surgery
- GI Discomfort (Gastroparesis, IBS, GERD, bloating, etc)
- Orthopedic Pain (whiplash, chronic spinal dysfunction, somatic-visceral interactions)
- Emotional Issues (Anxiety, depression)
Are There Any Contraindications?
Visceral Manipulation may not be for you if you relate with the following:
- Acute Inflammatory Flare-Up
- Abdominal Aneurysm
- Active Bleeding Ulcer
- Thrombosis
- Pregnancy (you are still able to receive motility and sphincter work)
- Stomach Banding Procedures
(Connective tissue disorders are NOT a contraindication as the abdominal cavity is a pressure system. The ligaments are present to assist in movement and organization rather than purely for stability reasons. As in connective tissue disorders, areas can still build up tension and restriction, especially in the form of adhesions when there is dysfunction.)
How Long Are The Treatments?
Treatments can be 30 or 60 minutes. It is highly recommended to do the first 2-3 sessions at 60 minutes and then decrease to 30 minutes after that time if you'd like. The 60 minute appointments give us a bit more time to talk before and during treatment and also allow more assessment and motility time.