The Secret Life of Your Organs

We often think about muscles and joints when it comes to movement, but your organs move, too—and that movement directly affects their function! Organs have both mobility (how they shift and glide within the body) and motility (their own intrinsic movements). When these motions are restricted, it can affect their chemical processes, digestion, and even energy levels.

Visceral manipulation, also known as organ or abdominal massage, is a gentle hands-on technique performed by osteopaths, massage therapists, and other trained practitioners. This treatment helps restore normal movement and tone in the organs and surrounding tissues, improving mobility, metabolism, and overall function. By using precise motions to release restrictions, visceral manipulation supports the body's natural ability to heal, reduce stress, and enhance vitality.

Restrictions in the connective tissue of the organs can develop from surgical scars, adhesions, illness, posture, or injury. For example, an adhesion around the lungs can create abnormal tension in surrounding structures. This could restrict rib movement, leading to imbalanced forces on the spine and nearby tissues, ultimately affecting posture and mobility.

Organs are often grateful to be acknowledged through touch, as most of us don’t consciously think about each organ’s role. Visceral manipulation can help restore movement, support function, and even relieve referred pain in unexpected areas.