Until recently osteopathy was largely perceived to be a therapy for musculo-skeletal disorders. It was not generally appreciated that osteopathy could also be used to treat a range of other conditions which are related to the function of the internal organs, or viscera.

However, rising concern about the safety of pharmaceutical drugs has brought visceral osteopathy back into focus, and it is becoming a popular therapeutic approach once again.

What is 'visceral' osteopathy?

Around 150 years ago, when osteopathy was first practised, there were few effective drugs available. Even herbal medicine was not widely used by the mid-west settlers of the time – although this was a highly sophisticated system in the hands of the Native Americans.

As a result, osteopathic treatment was used to treat many ailments which might not be deemed suitable today: digestive problems, infections and fevers, for example. The success rate was surprisingly high – the hardy country folk had good immune systems and often only a small 'push' would stimulate their defences and lead to a good recovery.

Why has it been less popular for the past 50 years?

The advent of pharmaceutically-based medicine moved the emphasis away from 'visceral' osteopathy (i.e. internal organs), and encouraged the use of a more mechanistic approach. In recent years, however, it has been realised that the function of these internal organs is greatly affected by their relative position and mobility.

What can 'visceral' osteopathy help?

This wider application of osteopathic techniques can be a valuable adjunct to the holistic treatment of many conditions. These can be discussed at your initial consultation, if appropriate.

What is involved?

The treatment is usually some form of gentle external massage, often involving the abdomen. This seeks to normalise the natural mobility of the organs, which in turn can help to improve function, circulation and lymphatic drainage.

Frequently the area may be quite tender, but the treatment should not be actually painful.

Contraindications

This treatment is not suitable when:

the area is very inflamed or painful
there is a history of cancer
the diagnosis is in doubt

Dress Code

The area being treated needs to be exposed.

Fees

As for normal osteopathic treatment:

£62 for 30 minutes

We now can accept Debit and Credit Card payments.

Photographs courtesy of istockphoto and Dreamstime.

Top



Site Map	© The Margaret Papoutsis Practice	Developed by Effective Webs