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June 2, 2006

An Argument For Pre-Surgical Visceral Manipulation

Why on earth would someone who is about to have a hysterectomy want visceral manipulation on their uterus? To me, the benefits are clear.

First, visceral manipulation will reduce fascial and ligamentous tension around the organs associated with the uterus. This will allow increased blood flow to those structures and presumably will help improve function of the whole system.

Second, if something like, say, an ovary is stuck to the colon or rectum, the surgeon is likely to see this as a problem and take the organ out to prevent trouble later for the patient. It is beneficial to the person for this hormone producing structure to stay put.

Third, by making sure all of the organs and associated structures move and slide against each other the way they were designed to, there will be less trauma to those surrounding tissues. The uterus will release easily, I imagine, from it's place in the pelvis making the surgery easier for the doctor. This will also shorten the duration of the surgery.

Finally, less time in surgery, less time under anesthesia, less trauma to the surrounding viscera, and more structures that the patient gets to keep, all add up improved recovery for the patient.

While Visceral Manipulation is preventive therapy, it is not likely that is will prevent surgery for a client who is in line for hysterectomy. But it might not hurt to try.

tags: massage massagetherapy wellness massage therapy bodywork health

Posted by linda at June 2, 2006 5:04 PM