Visceral Osteopathy


What is it?

Visceral OsteopathyVisceral osteopathy relieves imbalances and restrictions in the interconnections between the motion of the organs of the body and their surrounding structures.The heart, respiration, digestive tract and reproductive organs interact via long lines of connective tissue (fascia) throughout the torso, from the back of the head down to the tailbone and the floor of the pelvis.

When damaged by injury, disease or operations this fascia can “stick” the organs and their supporting muscles and ligaments to each other, causing adhesions.  The result is that the organs, muscles and ligaments can’t perform their intended function.

How does it work?

It is a highly specific manipulation that releases tension, not only in the restricted organ themselves (e.g. colon causing constipation), but in the reciprocal tension caused by the restriction (e.g. constipation causing back or knee pain via the psoas muscle which “guides” the ascending and descending colon).

Internal organs can be treated in different ways depending on the problem and the individual’s presentation.  Sometimes it is appropriate to apply gentle mobilisation to the ligaments and organs to free up restrictions and adhesions.

It is also useful to employ assistance from the diaphragm via respiratory cooperation.  Lastly the viscera can be treated indirectly via the neural input from the  spinal nerves emitting from the vertebral segments.  All of these can help to restore healthy function to a restricted organ.

Who can it help?

Whilst visceral osteopathy is not a substitute for surgery, it can help restore function to any organs that have been damaged due to injury, disease or surgery.
I have successfully treated symptoms resulting from the following:  (see testimonials).

  • Post-operative restriction and adhesions
  • Digestive problems (e.g. constipation, IBS, Crohn’s, hiatus hernia)
  • Post-partum mothers to help restore pelvic floor and uterine function and tone
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