How Visceral Manipulation and Acupuncture Can Help You Achieve Balance

Dr. Veronica Yu, B.Sc., D.Ac., D.C.

Part 1 – Visceral Manipulation

Visceral Manipulation was developed by French Osteopath, Jean-Pierre Barral. At optimal health, the relationship between the organs (viscera) and structures of the body (muscles, membranes, fascia and bones) remains stable despite the body’s endless varieties of motion.

When one organ can’t move in harmony with its surrounding viscera due to abnormal tone, adhesions or displacement, it works against all the body’s organs and structures. This state can occur with trauma, chronic stress conditions as well as surgery. This disharmony creates fixed, abnormal points of tension that the body is forced to move around. That chronic irritation, in turn, can create mechanical dysfunction.

Visceral Manipulation is a hands-on therapy that works through the body’s visceral system to locate and alleviate these abnormal points of tension throughout the body in order to encourage the normal mobility, tone and motion of the viscera and their connective tissues. This in turn aids in attaining and maintaining proper movement and mechanical balance.

Part 2 – Acupuncture

Acupuncture is one of the oldest, most commonly used medical procedures in the world. Originating in China more than 2,000 years ago. North American practices of acupuncture incorporate medical traditions from China, Japan, Korea, and other countries.

One primary core principle is that health is achieved by maintaining the body in a "balanced state" and that disease is due to an internal imbalance of energy. Imbalance leads to blockage in the flow of vital energy along pathways known as meridians. It is believed that there are 12 main meridians and 8 secondary meridians and that there are more than 2,000 acupuncture points on the human body that connect with them.

Acupuncture needles are metallic, solid, and hair-thin. People experience acupuncture differently, but most feel no or minimal pain as the needles are inserted. Some people are energized by treatment, while others feel relaxed.

The majority of people trying acupuncture for the first time will respond favorably. Practitioners will frequently undergo a consultation first in order to determine whether your individual case would respond to acupuncture treatment.

Part 3 – What to Expect

Whether your first office visit is for Visceral Manipulation or Acupuncture, the practitioner will ask you at length about your health condition, lifestyle, and behavior in order to obtain a complete picture of your treatment needs and behaviors that may contribute to your condition.

A detailed exam follows with results and treatment options discussed. It is important to inform your practitioner about all treatments or medications you are taking and all medical conditions you have.

Health care practitioners are a helpful resource for referral to qualified Visceral Manipulation practitioners and Acupuncturists in your area.