Visceral Massage

Visceral massage, often called visceral manipulation, is a gentle, hands-on manual therapy in which a trained massage therapist applies precise pressure and movement to the internal organs (viscera) and their surrounding connective tissues to improve organ mobility, alleviate pain, and restore optimal function. This technique recognizes that healthy visceral structures must be able to slide, expand, and contract freely for proper digestion, elimination, circulation, and overall well-being.

Key Features

  • The therapist uses slow, gentle movements and thoughtful palpation to locate restrictions, adhesions, or areas of immobility around and within organs like the liver, stomach, intestines, and reproductive organs.

  • Techniques include soft pressure, stretching or releasing fascia around and within the viscera, circular or directional mobilizations, and, at times, myofascial release adapted for deep tissue structures.

  • Sessions are guided by client feedback and can be highly focused (targeting a single organ) or more comprehensive, depending on symptoms and assessment.

Purposes and Benefits

  • Visceral massage improves organ mobility and functional “slide and glide,” helping to relieve pain, digestive issues (e.g., constipation, bloating, IBS), reproductive problems (endometriosis, pelvic pain), and chronic muscular or postural complaints originating from organ restrictions.

  • It is also used for post-surgical recovery (breaking down adhesions), injury rehabilitation, and system-wide effects such as reducing stress and supporting detoxification and circulation.

  • By facilitating better movement and fluid flow, this therapy can enhance digestion, increase comfort, and support holistic health.

Typical Use in Massage Sessions

  • Massage therapists incorporate visceral manipulation alongside musculoskeletal techniques for clients presenting with abdominal pain, digestive dysfunction, pelvic disorders, or generalized tension not resolved by regular massage.

  • It requires advanced training in anatomy and organ function, with the therapist constantly assessing and adapting the pressure and technique based on tissue response and client comfort.

  • Visceral techniques are contraindicated for acute infections, recent abdominal surgeries, or certain medical conditions, so thorough assessment and communication are essential.

In summary, visceral massage is a gentle, precise manual therapy targeting the functional relationships and mobility of the internal organs and their connective tissue—supporting pain relief, improved digestion, post-surgical recovery, and whole-body wellness in massage therapy practice.