What Is Visceral Osteopathy?

Visceral osteopathy seeks to examine the function of the viscera, or organs, such as the lungs, stomach, bowels, and bladder. Restrictions to the mobility of the viscera may contribute to musculoskeletal or gastrointestinal symptoms, including low back pain and constipation. Altered visceral mobility can be caused by adhesions after surgery, infections, trauma (such as car accidents), inflammation, allergic reactions, and can be affected by psychological influences among many other factors.

How Does It Work?

A visceral approach to osteopathic treatment aims to promote the natural mobility of the organs in order to facilitate better function for the system as a whole.

This approach may help to alleviate:

• Digestive issues
• The symptoms of irritable bowel syndrome
• Reflux or heartburn
• Pelvic pain
• Lower urinary tract symptoms

Visceral osteopathy may also help to relieve musculoskeletal symptoms which may be caused by visceral dysfunction.

Is Visceral Osteopathy Suitable For Me?

As highly trained allied health professionals, osteopaths will consider the underlying causes of such symptoms and will refer their patients to another medical professional if required. Visceral osteopathy may not be appropriate post-surgically, during pregnancy or infancy, post-trauma, or during acute illness.

Research in the field of visceral osteopathy is limited, and further studies are required to expand the evidence base for its efficacy. Nevertheless, in clinical practice patients often report improvement in their symptoms following visceral treatment.

For more information about visceral osteopathy please contact us.