Visceral Manipulation
When everything in your body is working properly, all of your organs should move and slide over each other smoothly. Unfortunately, strain, overuse, poor posture, pregnancy and even inflammation can cause organs like the kidneys, bladder and intestines to get a little “sticky” which may lead to your internal tissues binding together. This can create adhesions, which, once formed, may cause areas of tension that make the organs stick together. This can lead to discomfort and decreased function.
Visceral Mobilization is helpful for those who have had any type of abdominal surgery including hysterectomy, C-section, GI surgeries, etc. It can also be beneficial for those who have a lot of scar tissue, common in athletes who play sports with a lot of blunt-force trauma such as football or hockey. In fact even all the movements a baby goes through in the womb during pregnancy can cause microtrauma to the organs. The same way that we get scar tissue in the knee joint, scar tissue can form around the organs, limiting motion. This scar tissue is actually formed by your body as a type of protection. Visceral mobilization can be very relevant for lower back and hip pain and may also help with digestion issues like constipation. Though it may seem like a massage, your physical therapist iss not actually changing the tissue. Instead, they’re attempting to elicit a neurological response, or more simply, trying to direct the brain’s attention to a specific area in order to get the tissue to relax.
There is ample evidence-based research about the effectiveness of visceral manipulation, including changes in MRI findings and EMG readings before and after application of these techniques. Studies (see the Barral Institute website) have confirmed benefits of visceral manipulation for the following issues:
Acute Disorders: Whiplash, seatbelt injuries, chest or abdominal sports injuries, concussion, traumatic brain injuries
Musculoskeletal Disorders: Chronic spinal dysfunction, headaches and migraine, Carpal Tunnel Syndrome, peripheral joint pain, sciatica, neck pain
Digestive Disorders: Bloating and constipation, nausea and acid reflux, GERD, swallowing dysfunctions
Women’s and Men’s Health Issues: Chronic pelvic pain, Endometriosis, fibroids and cysts, Dysmenorrhea, bladder incontinence, prostate dysfunction, referred testicular pain, effects of Menopause
Pain Related to: Post-operative scar tissue, post-infection scar tissue, autonomic mechanisms
Pediatric Issues: Constipation and Gastritis, persistent vomiting, Vesicoureteral Reflux, Colic
Emotional Issues: Anxiety and Depression, Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder
Visceral Manipulation is often “the missing link” in your recovery. If you’re interested in visceral manipulation, schedule an appointment at Back To Center PT online or over the phone today!