Some osteopaths are trained to treat your organs directly, this is called visceral osteopathy. Visceral osteopathy is a very specialised and complex area of osteopathy which requires post-graduate training.

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You might be surprised to learn that even organs can hold tension through their ligamentous and fascial connections to other organs or musculoskeletal structures in the body. Organs, such as the stomach, liver, intestines are suspended to the body wall (spine, rib cage, pelvis) via internal ligaments. Organs are also connected to each other, through membrane, such as the liver and stomach which are connected by the lesser omentum (a double layer of membrane).

 

Strains in the connective tissue around the organs can result from scarring, adhesion, illness, injury or posture. These can cause restrictions in the connective tissues which the body tries to move around - finding the path of least resistance to movement - creating compensation patterns which are sometimes simple and other times complex. The patterns can then potentially affect the natural rhythms and mobility of organs, and additionally impact the structure and function of the musculoskeletal system causing a range of complaints or disease.

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Osteopaths trained in visceral osteopathy assess the mobility of the musculoskeletal system, and additionally assess the abdomen through specific palpation. Treatment is very gentle and specific to release the connective tissues around the organs as appropriate. Conditions such as irritable bowel (IBS), gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), and even fertility issues caused by organs being restricted can benefit from treatment. Additionally, repetitive and unresolving back or neck pain can have a visceral link (through ligaments, fascia, nerve or vascular connections) which may benefit from a wider treatment approach. 

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I have a particular interest in visceral osteopathy, and have completed a substantial amount of training in this area. If you have digestive complaints, women's health issues, scarring or adhesions, I may be able to help you.