Visceral manipulation is a gentle, hands-on manual therapy used to help your internal organs (viscera) glide smoothly within your body. The techniques focus on gentle mobilization of internal organs and their fascial connections to promote synchronized movement between the organs and structures. Our visceral physical therapists have received advanced training through the Barral Institute.
Viscera are the soft internal organs of the body (such as the liver and bladder). These organs have a natural rhythm and motion and are intended to move in harmony with each other. When organs are out of synchronicity with other organs and tissues, it not only affects the optimal performance of the organ itself, but it also affects the surrounding tissue that is connected to the organ through the fascial system. This can lead to pain and dysfunction in areas far from where the organ lies.
Visceral Manipulation is used to locate and solve problems throughout the body. It encourages your own natural mechanisms to improve the functioning of your organs, dissipate the negative effects of stress, enhance mobility of the musculoskeletal system through the connective tissue attachments, and influence general metabolism. Although several professions can practice Visceral Manipulation, receiving your care from a physical therapist ensures a comprehensive approach.
What To Expect
All patients receive a thorough musculoskeletal evaluation that includes assessment of your posture, muscle imbalances, biomechanics, and joint mobility to identify areas contributing to your symptoms.
Your physical therapist will use soft manual forces to encourage the normal mobility, tone and motion of the viscera and their connective tissues. These gentle manipulations can potentially improve the functioning of individual organs, the systems the organs function within, and the structural integrity of the entire body.
With Visceral Manipulation, your treatment is very gentle. It is often combined with other forms of therapy, like Myofascial Release, Craniosacral Therapy, joint mobilization, and appropriate exercise.
