Hands-on, specialised care
Visceral Manipulation is a gentle, hands-on technique applied to the trunk and abdomen, looking at how the tissues there move in relation to the spine and posture. At our clinic it is offered only after a full assessment, as one part of a wider plan.
Visceral Manipulation uses slow, light touch over the abdomen and trunk. The idea behind it is that the connective tissue around the organs and the structures that support them can become tight or less mobile, and that this may be linked with stiffness or discomfort in the back, ribs or pelvis.
We use it in a musculoskeletal context: to look at how trunk tissues move and whether tension there is contributing to restricted movement. We do not use it to treat disease of any organ, and we do not claim it can treat digestive, hormonal or other medical conditions. Those need a doctor.
The research evidence for Visceral Manipulation is still developing. There are some small studies, but few high-quality trials, and results are mixed. For that reason we treat it as an option within a broader plan of assessment, movement and exercise, and not as a stand-alone cure.
Dr. Akshay Bandekar has advanced training in Visceral Manipulation (USA).
We begin with the same careful assessment as any other problem: your story, your symptoms and a physical examination of your back, hips and trunk. We ask about your general health, medicines and any past surgery, because these affect whether the technique is appropriate.
If we agree the technique is suitable, a session is slow and unhurried, and you can ask us to stop or change what we are doing at any time.
We explain what we found, why we think the technique may help and what it will involve, and you decide whether to go ahead.
You lie or sit in a comfortable, supported position so that the trunk and abdomen are relaxed.
Light hands-on work over the abdomen or trunk, tuning into how the tissues move. Pressure is gentle. You may feel warmth, a sense of release or very little at all, and every response is normal.
We ask how you feel throughout and re-check your movement afterwards, so that we can see whether it is making a useful difference.
The technique is paired with exercise, posture and habit advice, because lasting change depends on how you use your body day to day.
Visceral Manipulation is only used where assessment suggests it fits your musculoskeletal symptoms. Dr. Akshay decides after assessment whether it is appropriate for you, and we will tell you if it is not. If you are seeking care for a digestive, hormonal or other organ-related condition, please see a doctor.
No. We use it only in a musculoskeletal context, to look at how trunk tissues move and whether tension there may be linked to back or trunk symptoms. Digestive, hormonal and other organ-related conditions need a doctor.
The evidence is limited. There are some small studies but few high-quality trials, and results vary. For this reason we use it as part of a broader plan and not as a stand-alone treatment, and we are open about its limits.
It is gentle. You will feel light, slow pressure on the abdomen or trunk. Some people feel warmth or a sense of release, and others feel very little. It should not be painful, and you can ask us to stop at any time.
It is a gentle technique, but it is not suitable for everyone. We check your history and examine you first, and we will not use it if there is a reason to avoid it.
Pregnancy needs particular care. We discuss it with you, and we may avoid or modify the technique or suggest you check with your doctor first.
If your symptoms are new, severe or involve your abdomen, bowel or bladder, yes. We will tell you at assessment if a medical review is needed.
Your physiotherapist
Dr. Akshay Bandekar is the founder of The Posture Perfect Physiotherapy Clinic.
Qualifications: BPTh, MIAP, COMT
Advanced training: Visceral Manipulation (USA), Fascial Manipulation (Italy), Craniosacral Therapy (USA)
Meet the teamBook an assessment at our Opera House clinic and we will plan your care together.
This website provides general information, not a diagnosis or personal medical advice. A qualified healthcare professional should assess your symptoms and advise on suitable care. Seek urgent medical attention for sudden weakness, loss of bladder or bowel control, chest pain, or other severe new symptoms.
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