Visceral Techniques and Manipulation
We utilize a fusion of methods to treat visceral organs. Beyond simply mobilizing tissue
that might be tight or taut, treating the surrounding peritoneum and vast weave of blood
vessels through the visceral organs has proven to be a very effective way in treating sensory
modulation and chronic stress (anxiety, worry, chronic tension). This has proven to be
most effective for infants, children, and adults.
Babies have taught us the correlations of organ tension and freedom for motility reflect the
autonomic and enteric status. These tensions, in turn, have a direct correlation with self-
regulatory behaviors. Modifications of visceral techniques incorporated to assist interstitial
mobility are a significant part of Bodywork for Babies. Treating "vicinities" rather than specific
ligamentous structures is the primary difference.
Key concept: In Barral’s original work, various suspension ligaments and fascia layers can be
misaligned or compressed, negatively affecting visceral organs' natural physiological freedom of movement. Using a high degree of specificity of locating these tissues, mobilization of
mechanical impingements is the objective of these osteopathic-based principles.
Visceral Manipulation (VM), was developed for clinical practice by osteopath and physical
therapist Jean-Pierre Barral in collaboration with osteopath Alain Croibier. Organ-specific
methods assess and treat fascial and surrounding structures to enhance the motility and mobility
of internal organs. Techniques are precise using soft, non-invasive manual forces to encourage
the normal movement of the organ within its cavity and ensure suspension ligaments are flexible
for optimal physiological action.
Barral techniques are geared towards older children and adults (though newer curriculum now includes pediatric course). The value of this osteopathic-based work lies in the correlative anatomy of organs to the function of postural imbalance and body dysfunction.
