Visceral Mobilization: Hands-on Approach for Healthy Organs

Introduction:

Viscera is known for the organs in the human system, such as the heart, liver, and kidney. These organs are meant to move smoothly and rhythmically for appropriate function. The organs are surrounded by supporting connective tissue and bones. So, any hindrance to the movement of these organs culminates in complications concerning vascular, nervous, musculoskeletal, respiratory, digestive, and urinary systems. Therefore, the affected or restricted viscera require certain stimulation as gliding and sliding stimulation, to get the function back.

What Is Visceral Mobilization?

Visceral mobilization, also referred to as visceral manipulation, is a manual technique employed to mobilize the organs. Physical therapists use hands-on or manual applications to release the tension and restrictions concerning the peripheral connections. So the mobility of the organ system is revived. In addition to restoration, visceral mobilization helps alleviate pain and dysfunction. Physiotherapist predominantly concentrates and fixes the digestive system. Nevertheless, the other systems are addressed.

How Does Visceral Mobilization Work?

Visceral mobilization or manipulation manipulates the organs by means of soft manual forces to enhance mobility. In addition, the tone and other features of the connective tissue are addressed. Firstly, the therapist identifies the organs contributing to the pain and discomfort. For example, the therapist will execute an assessment of pelvic floor muscles for the underlying restrictions in abdominal viscera. Then, distinctive manipulation is implemented for the mobilization of tissues and the associated viscera.

What to Expect From Visceral Mobilization?

According to studies and clinical trials, visceral mobilization is shown to be a safe and effective technique. Visceral mobilization comprises sessions, whereas the number of sessions and frequency is dependent upon the individual. After a thorough examination, the therapists will plot a tailored plan, considering the treatment needs. So, the people encountering visceral manipulation will feel a sensation of stretch or gentle pressure. And a warmth or tingling sensation is felt in areas as a result of increased blood circulation. This tingling sensation is usually felt right after the visceral manipulation.

Which Conditions Do the Visceral Mobilization Technique Address?

Visceral mobilization seems like massages. Nevertheless, it is not a massage technique. The therapists perform on enhancing a neurological response for tissue healing. In simple words, visceral mobilization is directed at the brain’s awareness as a means to relax the tissue.

• Nausea.

• Constipation.

• Acid reflux.

• Whiplash.

• Migraines.

• Concussion.

• Sports injuries.

• Headaches.

• Sciatica.

• Carpal tunnel syndrome.

• Peripheral joint pain.

• Chronic pelvic pain.

• Bladder incontinence.

• Endometriosis.

• Fibroids and cysts.

• Testicular pain.

• Post-operative scars.

• Post-infection scars.

Subsequently, visceral mobilization is considered effective in certain psychological conditions such as depression, anxiety, and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD).

What Are the Benefits of the Visceral Mobilization Technique?

The visceral mobilization technique includes a range of effective evaluations such as history, symptoms, mobility evaluation, strength assessment, viscera palpation, and the presence of restrictions. Then, the therapy is scheduled. So, visceral mobilization is used in the following concerns for its associated benefits.

Bones and Joints: Individuals with low back and pelvic pain have restrictions on viscera, joints, spine, and bone. The joints and muscles stiffen, resulting in the mobility of the viscera. For instance, in cases of the intestine bounding down, visceral mobilization releases the intestines and restores the mobility of the gut. It works similarly to muscle release and massage. It will help in relieving the stress from bones, fascia, and joints. Hence, it also alleviates pain and chronic muscle strain.

Digestive Problems: The restriction in viscera and irritable bowel syndrome is connected in some way. So, the restriction of viscera in any part right from the esophagus to the rectum could result in bloating, constipation, and reflux illnesses. This is due to the impeding of healthy digestion. Visceral mobilization plays a vital role in benefiting digestive concerns. The technique improves gut mobility and thus fixes constipation in individuals under pain medication suffering constipation.

Women’s Health: Visceral mobilization benefits women who are having a hard time and pain during their menstrual cycles. For instance, the technique addresses the uterus being bound down or having a restriction on one side. And thus, the intensive levels of bloating, cramping, and bleeding are fixed. In another way, visceral mobilization helps women with fertility problems where ovaries sometimes become restricted, leading to pain and other consequences.

Scar Concerns: Individuals present with scar tissue formation after abdominal surgery, such as a laparoscopy or open surgery. This scar tissue can bind down the viscera and lead to loss of mobility in aspects of the spine muscles and pelvis. In addition, scar tissue can induce limited or impede digestion. Individuals also possess other problems causing viscera restrictions rather than a scar. Visceral mobilization works on effective sliding and gliding of the viscera. Hence, the pain and other scar-related issues get the benefit.

How Effective Is Visceral Mobilization?

Visceral mobilization or visceral manipulation is regarded as a safe technique for most people. The therapists are certified and are trained to perform this technique cautiously. Also, healthcare providers will not recommend this treatment if they sense it is unsafe for the individual. According to clinical findings, this mobilization approach is shown to be practical and effective in treating a greater number of conditions and health concerns. People experiencing vascular, nervous, digestive, musculoskeletal, respiratory, and lymphatic conditions could get better from visceral manipulation.

Where Is Visceral Mobilization Contraindicated?

Visceral mobilization is safe and effective, though. The technique is contraindicated in certain states to prevent complications. However, physical therapists take preventive measures considering the underlying illnesses and conditions. A few contraindications to be taken into consideration are listed below.

• Infection.

• Inflammation.

• Recent trauma.

• Open fracture.

• Soft tissue injury.

• Non-healing ulcers.

• Pregnancy.

Addedly, visceral mobilization carries a lower risk of injuries and complications since it is gently manipulated. The side effects are rare with this technique. But, some individuals could experience head pain or soreness temporarily.

Conclusion:

Like the muscles and tissues, organs also rely on a certain motion for the actual function. Visceral mobilization is known for treating the dynamics of motion of viscera. So, visceral manipulation is effective in a great number of illnesses and disorders. The technique primarily fixates the abdominal region, addressing the digestive system. Nevertheless, the studies reveal that people suffering from musculoskeletal, lymphatic, respiratory, nervous, and urinary illnesses could get better with visceral manipulation.