Visceral Osteopathy
Visceral osteopathy is a gentle, specialised form of manual therapy that focuses on improving the mobility and function of the body’s internal organs — such as the digestive system, lungs, liver, bladder, and reproductive organs — and their supporting connective tissues. While many people think of osteopathy as treatment for muscles, joints, and the spine, the health of your internal organs (viscera) is closely linked to the musculoskeletal system and overall wellbeing.
How It Works
Our organs are held in place and supported by a network of ligaments, fascia, and connective tissue. These tissues need to be supple and able to move with the body’s natural motions — for example, breathing, walking, bending, and twisting. When an organ’s mobility is restricted (due to injury, surgery, illness, inflammation, or chronic tension), it can create strain patterns in the surrounding muscles, joints, and other organs. Over time, this may contribute to pain, reduced function, or symptoms in seemingly unrelated areas.
Visceral osteopathy uses precise, gentle manual techniques to detect and release restrictions in and around the organs and their connective tissues. By improving mobility, circulation, and nerve supply to these structures, the body is better able to restore balance and self-heal.
What a Treatment Involves
During a visceral osteopathy session at Osteopathy Nelson, your osteopath will:
Take a detailed case history to understand your symptoms, health background, and goals.
Use gentle palpation to assess the movement, position, and tone of specific organs and surrounding tissues.
Apply light, specific manual techniques to ease restrictions, encourage natural mobility, and improve blood and lymphatic flow.
Integrate treatment with other osteopathic approaches (such as structural or cranial techniques) where appropriate.
The treatment is non-invasive, and most patients describe it as comfortable and deeply relaxing.
Conditions Visceral Osteopathy May Help With
Visceral techniques can be used as part of a broader treatment plan for a range of issues, including:
Digestive problems: bloating, constipation, irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), reflux, post-surgical abdominal discomfort.
Post-operative recovery: improving mobility and reducing adhesions after abdominal or pelvic surgery.
Pelvic health concerns: menstrual discomfort, pelvic pain, symptoms related to endometriosis (as part of a supportive care plan).
Respiratory issues: improving chest mobility and breathing mechanics following respiratory illness or surgery.
Musculoskeletal pain with visceral links: lower back pain, rib pain, or neck and shoulder discomfort related to organ restrictions.
Postural imbalances: subtle pulls from organ restrictions that influence overall body alignment and movement patterns.
A Whole-Body Approach
Visceral osteopathy works on the principle that the body functions as an integrated whole. Restrictions in one area can affect distant parts of the body. By improving the movement and function of internal organs, we can often see positive changes in posture, mobility, pain levels, and energy.
At Osteopathy Nelson, we often combine visceral techniques with other osteopathic methods to create a treatment plan tailored to your needs. This integrated approach can be particularly beneficial for complex or long-standing conditions where multiple body systems are involved.
Is It Right for You?
Visceral osteopathy can be a valuable part of recovery, prevention, and ongoing health maintenance. It is suitable for people of all ages, although your osteopath will always assess whether it is appropriate for your specific situation.
If you are experiencing unresolved symptoms or suspect that your discomfort might be linked to tension or restriction within your internal organs, our team can help determine if visceral osteopathy could be beneficial for you.
Book an appointment today with Liz Stroud or Shane Ricketts and discover how this gentle, effective approach can support your body’s natural balance from the inside out.