Visceral Osteopathy

Who would benefit ?
Internal organs (digestive tract, respiratory system, etc) can be treated in different ways, depending on the problem at hand. Treatment applied to the ligaments can free connections to certain organs. Techniques using mobilisation require active participation from the patient, restoring mobility to the organs through respiratory motion. Lastly, the neurological network enables the therapist to intervene on certain organs indirectly. This is possible through corrections within the “vertebral keyboard” which treat nerve-related dysfunctions of the internal organs. These techniques are used, for example, to regulate the digestive system.

Visceral Osteopathy can help recover some of our natural function. Visceral techniques won't perform knife-less surgery, but when an organ is freed from adhesions and proper mobility is restored, we have a better chance at health. The rhythms of the body are interconnected. The heart, respiration and cranial rhythms interact due to long lines of fascia throughout the torso, from the back of the head down to the tailbone and floor of the torso. When damaged by injury or disease, fascia 'sticks' the muscles and organs to each other. Then, the muscles, organs or ligaments can't perform their intended function.

According to my experience, anyone who has had a surgical procedure would benefit from the Visceral techniques, in terms of the mobility and sense of 'flexibility' that can be returned to the body after their stay (long or short) in the hospital.

Similarly, I have worked with a number of mothers in the post partum period to help restore mobility to the pelvic floor and pelvic organs which do not always return to their ideal 'prebirth' configuration.

Other direct benefits include improvement in tone, function and fluid circulation of specific organs, and relaxation of spasms in the visceral muscles. Because of this, VO can be very helpful in cases of hiatal hernia and other digestive system problems.

People undergoing radiation treatments can also benefit from VO, as radiation dehydrates the tissues, and VM helps to improve fluid circulation. VO also helps to dissipate stress in the system and facilitate relaxation. It encourages your own natural healing mechanisms indirectly through its effects on your nervous, hormonal and immune systems. For example, VM is thought to increase serotonin, a neurotransmitter influencing sleep and mood, as well as melatonin production. Melatonin is a hormone that modulates circadian (24 hour) rhythms in the body, in addition to immune and hormonal activity.

And, as a general observation, Visceral Osteopathy is an excellent compliment to people who have had complaints about fibroids, ovarian cysts and general reproductive and hormonal problems.