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Visceral Manipulation (VM)

What is Visceral Manipulation?

Visceral Manipulation (VM) is a gentle, hands-on therapy that focuses on improving the mobility and function of the body’s internal organs — such as the liver, stomach, intestines, kidneys, and lungs — and their surrounding connective tissues.

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Developed by French osteopath Jean-Pierre Barral, VM is based on the principle that proper motion of the organs (viscera) is essential for overall health. When internal organs are restricted due to surgery, infection, inflammation, injury, or emotional stress, they can create abnormal tension patterns throughout the body — contributing to pain, dysfunction, or poor posture.

 

How does it work?

Visceral Manipulation involves gentle, specific manual pressure to encourage normal movement of the organs and their connective tissue. By restoring this mobility, VM helps relieve strain not only in the viscera but also in the surrounding muscles, fascia, joints, and nervous system.

 

VM works by:

  • Releasing restrictions in organ mobility and fascial connections

  • Improving circulation and lymphatic drainage

  • Decreasing tension in the musculoskeletal system

  • Supporting the body’s natural self-healing mechanisms

  • Balancing the autonomic nervous system

This approach is subtle but profound, and it often improves both local and distant symptoms.

Gentle manual therapy to support organ mobility, alignment, and overall body function

Conditions commonly treated with VM

  • Digestive issues (bloating, constipation, reflux)

  • Chronic pelvic or abdominal pain

  • Scar tissue and post-surgical restrictions

  • Postural imbalances related to fascial tension

  • Chronic low back with visceral-fascial origin

  • Pain linked to emotional trauma or stress

  • Breathing restrictions (diaphragm restrictions) or rib mobility issues

  • Recurrent urinary tract issues or bladder dysfunction

  • Pain associated with unresolved emotional trauma

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Why choose Visceral Manipulation?

  • Gentle, non-invasive technique

  • Addresses the root cause, not just symptoms

  • Suitable for chronic conditions and sensitive patients

  • Can be combined with physical therapy or other modalities

  • Enhances whole-body balance and function

 

What to expect during treatment

During a VM session, you will simply lie down comfortably while the therapist uses light, focused touch to assess and treat areas of restriction in the abdomen, chest, or pelvis. The technique is comfortable and deeply relaxing. Many patients experience not only symptom relief, but also a greater sense of overall well-being after treatment.

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