What Is Visceral Manipulation?
Visceral Manipulation (VM) is a gentle manual therapy that supports healing throughout the body by encouraging the natural mobility and function of the organs and their connective tissues. It works by helping your body release restrictions that interfere with healthy movement, improving everything from digestion and metabolism to structural balance and emotional well-being.
Developed by French osteopath and physical therapist Jean-Pierre Barral, VM is grounded in the idea that restoring movement in the viscera (internal organs) helps the entire body function more harmoniously.
How Does Visceral Manipulation Work?
Using precise, soft manual pressure, a trained therapist gently mobilizes the organs and surrounding tissues to:
Improve organ function and tone
Restore fluid movement and balance in the body
Release physical and emotional restrictions
Enhance communication between systems in the body
Rather than forcing change, VM supports the body’s own natural ability to reorganize and heal. Because the organs are highly sensitive, this therapy requires skilled touch to ensure effectiveness without adding strain or stress.
What Can Visceral Manipulation Help With?
Visceral Manipulation can assist with a wide range of conditions, both acute and chronic. These include:
Acute Disorders
Whiplash
Seatbelt injuries
Sports injuries to the chest or abdomen
Digestive Disorders
Constipation and bloating
Acid reflux and GERD
Nausea
Swallowing dysfunction
Women’s and Men’s Health
Chronic pelvic pain
Endometriosis
Fibroids and cysts
Menstrual pain (dysmenorrhea)
Bladder incontinence
Prostate issues
Testicular pain
Menopause symptoms
Emotional Health
Anxiety and depression
Post-traumatic stress
Musculoskeletal Disorders
Chronic spinal misalignment
Somatic-visceral interactions
Migraines and headaches
Sciatica
Carpal tunnel
Joint pain
Scar tissue issues (post-operative or post-infection)
Autonomic nervous system dysfunction
Pediatric Conditions
Infant colic
Gastritis
Persistent vomiting
Vesicoureteral reflux
How to Get Started
For Visceral Manipulation treatments at the Tummy Temple call (206) 729-6211.
Kristi Zimmer is the CEO of Tummy Temple, a natural medicine clinic focused on detox, digestive health, and nervous system balance. With a background in massage, colon hydrotherapy, and nutrition, she combines her personal healing journey with a passion for holistic wellness.
She leads a team of professionals dedicated to compassionate care and continuously strives to improve the clinic’s services through client feedback.
