Visceral Manipulation

Visceral Manipulation is a hands-on physical medicine modality developed by French Osteopath and Physical Therapist Jean-Pierre Barral.  Practitioners trained in visceral manipulation work to restore movement within structures and thereby decrease tension and increase function within the body of the patient.

Patients seek out visceral manipulation treatment for a wide range of complaints including digestive, urogenital, respiratory, vascular and lymphatic dysfunction. Through the evaluation and treatment of organs, membranes, fascia, and ligaments, visceral manipulation aids in the restoration of both functional and structural issues within these and other body systems.  Whether the tension or dysfunction originates from injury, surgery, or posture, visceral manipulation seeks to aid in the unwinding of fascial systems thus improving movement and function.

Patients can expect the practitioner to do a thorough evaluation of the fascial system in their attempt to understand the interconnectedness of where the body is showing signs of tension compared to how the patient is experiencing discomfort.  The session will then move into treatment which can have varying levels of intensity and duration, usually less than 1 hour in length. Although visceral manipulation can sometimes exacerbate acute sensations of mild discomfort in the short term, patients should not expect to experience any sharp sensations and should notify the practitioner if they do experience significant pain.  After a visceral manipulation session, patients can have a wide range of resolution – from minor to significant change with each treatment. The number of treatments necessary to restore movement and function can also vary depending on severity of the restrictions.

Visceral manipulation is a highly effective technique that often brings resolution to complaints that patients have been experiencing for years.

For more information visit the Barral Institute website