Abdominal visceral massage, also known as abdominal massage or visceral manipulation, is a therapeutic technique that focuses on the manipulation and mobilization of internal organs within the abdominal cavity. This gentle and non-invasive approach is rooted in ancient healing practices and has gained recognition in modern times for its potential to alleviate various health issues and improve overall well-being. In this article, we will delve into the benefits, techniques, and considerations of abdominal visceral massage. We at 4Healing Health & Wellness Center have state licensed medical massage therapists trained and experienced in abdominal visceral massage.

Abdominal visceral massage is based on the principle that the health and proper functioning of internal organs are interconnected with the musculoskeletal system and nervous system. This form of massage aims to promote the optimal functioning of organs, enhance blood and lymphatic circulation, and alleviate restrictions or tension in the abdominal area.

Benefits of Abdominal Visceral Massage

• Digestive Health: Abdominal visceral massage can aid digestion by promoting peristalsis (the rhythmic contraction of the intestines), reducing bloating, and relieving constipation. It may also help address issues like irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) and indigestion.
• Stress Reduction: This form of massage can have a relaxing effect on the body and mind, helping to reduce stress and anxiety. The manipulation of abdominal tissues can stimulate the release of endorphins, promoting a sense of calm.
• Pain Relief: Abdominal visceral massage may alleviate discomfort associated with menstrual cramps, endometriosis, and certain types of abdominal pain. It can also help address musculoskeletal pain by releasing tension in the surrounding muscles and fascia.
• Improved Circulation: The gentle manipulation of organs and tissues can enhance blood and lymphatic flow, aiding in the removal of toxins and waste products from the body.
• Postural Alignment: Abdominal visceral massage may contribute to better postural alignment by addressing imbalances in the abdominal and pelvic regions.

Techniques Used in Abdominal Visceral Massage

• Palpation: The therapist uses their hands to feel for any areas of tension, restriction, or imbalance within the abdominal area.
• Gentle Pressure and Mobilization: Using gentle and precise pressure, the therapist applies manual techniques to release restrictions and improve the mobility of organs.
• Breath Awareness: Deep breathing techniques may be incorporated to help clients relax and facilitate the movement of organs during the massage.
• Stretching and Rocking: Gentle stretching and rocking movements can help promote relaxation and enhance the flexibility of abdominal tissues.

Abdominal visceral massage offers a holistic approach to promoting overall health and well-being by addressing the intricate relationship between internal organs and the musculoskeletal system. While this technique can provide various benefits, it's important to approach it with careful consideration, seeking guidance from qualified professionals and understanding its potential limitations. Whether used as a standalone therapy or in conjunction with other modalities, abdominal visceral massage holds promise as a gentle and effective means of enhancing digestive health, reducing stress, and improving overall quality of life.

Contact our office to schedule with our certified medical massage therapists and be sure to ask specifically for our abdominal/visceral massage trained therapist.

Functional medicine takes a personalized, systems-oriented approach to managing thyroid conditions that focuses on identifying and addressing the root causes of the condition. While conventional medicine may rely primarily on medication to manage thyroid conditions, Dr. Ernesto Medina at 4Healing Health & Wellness Center takes a more functional approach by using a range of holistic interventions to optimize thyroid function and promote overall health and wellbeing.

One key component of a functional medicine approach to managing thyroid conditions is testing. Functional medicine practitioners like Dr. Ernesto Medina often will use comprehensive thyroid panels to assess thyroid hormone levels, as well as other markers of thyroid function such as thyroid antibodies and nutrient levels. This allows practitioners to identify any imbalances or deficiencies that may be contributing to the condition. An initial and complete Thyroid blood panel should include the following tests:

TSH

T4 total and free

T3 total and free

Reverse T3

T3 uptake

TPO antibodies

Thyroglobulin antibodies

Another important aspect of functional medicine management for thyroid conditions is nutrition. Functional medicine practitioners recognize that diet plays a crucial role in thyroid function and may work with patients to develop individualized nutrition plans that emphasize whole, nutrient-dense foods, and the elimination of inflammation driving foods. These plans may include foods that are rich in iodine, selenium, and other nutrients that are essential for healthy thyroid function.

Dr. Ernesto Medina may also use targeted supplementation to help optimize thyroid function. He often uses initial baseline blood tests to determine nutritional status and to identify underlying nutritional deficiencies that may be driving Thyroid related symptoms. Certain nutrients, such as selenium, zinc, Omega 3 fish oils and vitamin D, have been shown to support thyroid health and may be recommended as part of a comprehensive treatment plan. 

It is important to note that roughly 90% of Thyroid conditions are driven by an autoimmune disease. If your autoimmune status is not being evaluated as part of a Thyroid work up, the underlying root cause of your Thyroid condition may go unaddressed for years. There is no medication or pharmaceutical that addresses the autoimmune component of Thyroid conditions. 

Overall, a functional medicine approach to managing thyroid conditions is a comprehensive, personalized approach that focuses on identifying and addressing the root causes of the condition. By incorporating testing, nutrition, stress reduction, targeted supplementation, and other interventions, Dr. Medina can help patients optimize thyroid function and promote overall health and wellbeing.

Functional Medicine: A Holistic Approach to Healthcare

Functional medicine is a holistic approach to healthcare that aims to identify and address the root causes of chronic disease. Rather than simply treating symptoms, functional medicine practitioners focus on identifying the underlying imbalances in the body that contribute to illness.

At the heart of functional medicine is a recognition of the interconnectedness of the body's systems. We at 4Healing Health & Wellness Center consider the impact of genetics, environment, lifestyle, and nutrition on overall health and wellbeing. By taking a personalized, systems-oriented approach, we at 4Healing Health & Wellness are able to develop individualized treatment plans that address the unique needs of each patient.

Dr. Ernesto Medina of 4Healing Health & Wellness utilizes a variety of tools and techniques to identify and address imbalances in the body. These may include lab testing, personalized nutrition plans, targeted supplementation, lifestyle modifications, medical massage and mind-body techniques. By combining these approaches, Dr. Medina is able to help patients work towards achieving optimal health and wellbeing.

One key aspect of functional medicine is a focus on preventative care. Rather than waiting until illness develops, practitioners work with patients to identify and address imbalances in the body before they become more serious. This can help to prevent the development of chronic disease and promote long-term health and wellbeing.

We at 4Healing Health & Wellness Center take a holistic approach to healthcare that emphasizes the interconnectedness of the body's systems. By identifying and addressing the underlying causes of illness, functional medicine practitioners like Dr. Ernesto Medina are able to develop personalized treatment plans that promote optimal health and wellbeing. If you are looking for a more holistic approach to healthcare, consider seeking out a functional medicine practitioner like Dr. Medina at 4Healing Health & Wellness Center. He offers a free 30 minute consultation to all first time visitors interested in finding out how the principles of functional medicine can help them.