Visceral Manipulation — Barral Method
Osteopathic system developed by Jean-Pierre Barral aimed at evaluating and normalizing the mobility and motility of internal organs to restore their physiological function.
Presentation
Visceral manipulation was developed by French osteopath Jean-Pierre Barral from the 1970s onward. Observing that organs have two types of movement — mobility (response to external forces like breathing) and motility (intrinsic movement specific to each organ) — Barral developed a system to palpate and correct these movements to treat visceral functional disorders and their musculoskeletal repercussions.
Creator: Jean-Pierre Barral, D.O., French osteopath, from 1974
Main Indications
- Functional digestive disorders (IBS, functional colopathy)
- Gastroesophageal reflux (GERD)
- Functional constipation
- Chronic pelvic pain
- Endometriosis (functional relief)
- Sequelae of abdominal or pelvic surgery
- Visceral low back pain
- Functional urinary incontinence
Contraindications
- Pregnancy (pelvic organs — 1st trimester)
- Abdominal or pelvic tumors
- Abdominal aortic aneurysm
- Intestinal obstruction
- Appendicitis, peritonitis (surgical emergencies)
- Active abdominal infection
Medical Disclaimer
The information presented in this article is provided for educational and informational purposes only. It does not constitute medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment prescription. If in doubt, always consult your physician or a qualified healthcare professional. The techniques described do not replace conventional medical treatment.