There are many symptoms associated with poor digestive system function. These include constipation, nausea, diarrhoea, acid reflux, abdominal cramping, bloating, gas, hiatus hernia, fatigue, sleep disturbances and gallbladder troubles.
The frustration and difficulty in diagnosing gut dysfunction is all too common and something Osteopaths come in contact with frequently.
Osteopaths are taught to try and work on the actual gut and all the factors that contribute to its overall health. There can be compression, adhesion or strain on the ligaments and supportive connective tissue around the organs. Logically this can cause discomfort and irritability of the bowel. An Osteopath may be able to help you relieve tensions caused by movement restrictions of the organs with the use of visceral manipulation.
Visceral manipulation is a hands-on technique that involves manipulation of the ligaments and connective tissue which support the organs. Years of under graduate and post graduate study may assist in restoring better function and mobility of your organs. Your Osteopath may be able to assist in restoring position and comfort to the organs, promote optimal circulation and balance the internal pressure systems in the body.
No matter how hard you try to include, exclude, vary your diet, sometimes dysfunction in this region will not abate.
Whether the gut is injured, traumatised. Just like the rest of your body, your organs can also suffer trauma. Falls, car accidents and other injuries can affect your organs – even if it doesn’t appear that the organ itself is injured.
Your Osteopath should always be complimentary to other medications and care given and can offer support with your local GP or specialist as a therapy.
