The Therapeutic Value of Visceral Manipulation

Visceral Manipulation (VM) was developed by world-renowned French Osteopath and Physical Therapist Jean-Pierre Barral. Comparative Studies found Visceral Manipulation Beneficial for Various Disorders Acute Disorders Whiplash Seatbelt Injuries Chest or Abdominal Sports Injuries Digestive Disorders Bloating and Constipation Nausea and Acid Reflux GERD Swallowing Dysfunctions Women's and Men's Health Issues Chronic Pelvic Pain Endometriosis Fibroids and Cysts Dysmenorrhea Bladder Incontinence Prostate Dysfunction Referred Testicular Pain Effects of Menopause Emotional Issues Anxiety and Depression Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder VM assists functional and structural imbalances throughout the body including musculoskeletal, vascular, nervous, urogenital, respiratory, digestive and lymphatic dysfunction. It evaluates and treats the dynamics of motion and suspension in relation to organs, membranes, fascia and ligaments. VM increases proprioceptive communication within the body, thereby revitalizing a person and relieving symptoms of pain, dysfunction, and poor posture. An integrative approach to evaluation and treatment of a patient requires assessment of the structural relationships between the viscera, and their fascial or ligamentous attachments to the musculoskeletal system. Strains in the connective tissue of the viscera can result from surgical scars, adhesions, illness, posture or injury. Tension patterns form through the fascial network deep within the body, creating a cascade of effects far from their sources for which the body will have to compensate. This creates fixed, abnormal Musculoskeletal Disorders Somatic-Visceral Interactions Chronic Spinal Dysfunction Headaches and Migraines Carpal Tunnel Syndrome Peripheral Joint Pain Sciatica Pain Related to Post-operative Scar Tissue Post-infection Scar Tissue Autonomic Mechanisms Pediatric Issues Constipation and Gastritis Persistent Vomiting Vesicoureteral Reflux Infant Colic

points of tension that the body must move around, and this chronic irritation gives way to functional and structural problems. Imagine an adhesion around the lungs. It would create a modified axis that demands abnormal accommodations from nearby body structures. For example, the adhesion could alter rib motion, which could then create imbalanced forces on the vertebral column and, with time, possibly develop a dysfunctional relationship with other structures. This scenario highlights just one of hundreds of possible ramifications of a small dysfunction magnified by thousands of repetitions each day. There are definite links between somatic structures, such as the muscles and joints, the sympathetic nervous system, the visceral organs, the spinal cord and the brain. For example, the sinuvertebral nerves innervate the intervertebral disks and have direct connections with the sympathetic nervous system, which innervates the visceral organs. The sinuvertebral nerves and sympathetic nervous system are linked to the spinal cord, which has connections with the brain. In this way someone with chronic pain can have irritations and facilitated areas not only in the musculoskeletal system (including joints, muscles, fascia, and disks) but also the visceral organs and their connective tissues (including the liver, stomach, gallbladder, intestines and adrenal glands), the peripheral nervous system, the sympathetic nervous system and even the spinal cord and brain. Thanks to the dedicated work of Jean-Pierre Barral, a Physiotherapist (RPT) and Osteopath (DO), healthcare practitioners today can use the rhythmic motions of the visceral system as important therapeutic tools. Barral's clinical work with the viscera led to his development of a form of manual therapy that focuses on the internal organs, their environment and the potential influence on many structural and physiological dysfunctions. The term he coined for this therapy was Visceral Manipulation. Visceral Manipulation relies on the palpation of normal and abnormal forces within the body. By using specific techniques, therapists can evaluate how abnormal forces interplay, overlap and affect the normal body forces at work. The goal is to help the body's normal forces remove abnormal effects, whatever their sources. Those effects can be global, encompassing many areas of bodily function.

How Does Visceral Manipulation Help You?

Visceral Manipulation is used to locate and solve problems throughout the body. It encourages your own natural mechanisms to improve the functioning of your organs, dissipate the negative effects of stress, enhance mobility of the musculoskeletal system through the connective tissue attachments, and influence general metabolism. Today, a wide variety of healthcare professionals perform Visceral Manipulation. Practitioners include osteopathic physicians, allopathic physicians, doctors of chiropractic, doctors of Oriental medicine, naturopathic physicians, physical therapists, occupational therapists, massage therapists and other licensed body workers.

How is Visceral Manipulation Performed?

Visceral Manipulation is based on the specific placement of soft manual forces to encourage the normal mobility, tone and motion of the viscera and their connective tissues. These gentle manipulations can potentially improve the functioning of individual organs, the systems the organs function within, and the structural integrity of the entire body. Harmony and health exist when motion is free and excursion is full - when motion is not labored, overexcited, depressed, or conflicting with neighboring structures and their mobility. Therapists using Visceral Manipulation assess the dynamic functional actions as well as the somatic structures that perform individual activities. They also evaluate the quality of the somatic structures and their functions in relation to an overall harmonious pattern, with motion serving as the gauge for determining quality. Due to the delicate and often highly reactive nature of the visceral tissues, gentle force precisely directed reaps the greatest results. As with other methods of manipulation that affect the body deeply, Visceral Manipulation works only to assist the forces already at work. Because of that, trained therapists can be sure of benefiting the body rather than adding further injury or disorganization.

How Did Visceral Manipulation Begin?

Methods such as Visceral Manipulation have been part of the medicinal cultures in Europe and Asia since prerecorded times. Indeed, manual manipulation of the internal organs has long been a component of some therapeutic systems in Oriental medicine. So it's no surprise that practitioners in many parts of the world have incorporated manipulations designed to work with the internal organs and their functions. Jean-Pierre Barral first became interested in biomechanics while working as a registered physical therapist of the Lung Disease Hospital in Grenoble, France. That's where he met Dr. Arnaud, a recognized specialist in lung diseases and a master of cadaver dissection. Working with Dr. Arnaud, Barral followed patterns of stress in the tissues of cadavers and studied biomechanics in living subjects. This introduced him to the visceral system, its potential to promote lines of tension within the body, and the notion that tissues have memory. All this was fundamental to his development of Visceral Manipulation. In 1974, Barral earned his diploma in osteopathic medicine from the European School of Osteopathy in Maidstone, England. Working primarily with articular and structural manipulation, he began forming the basis for Visceral Manipulation during an unusual session with a patient he'd been treating with spinal manipulations. During the preliminary examination, Barral was surprised to find appreciable movement. The patient confirmed that he felt relief from his back pain after going to an "old man who pushed something in his abdomen."

This incident piqued Barral's interest in the relationship between the viscera and the spine. That's when he began exploring stomach manipulations with several patients, with successful results gradually leading him to develop Visceral Manipulation. Between 1975 and 1982, Barral taught spinal biomechanics at England's European School of Osteopathy. In collaboration with Dr. Jean-Paul Mathieu and Dr. Pierre Mercier, he published Articular Vertebrae Diagnosis. Using his work with Dr. Arnaud as a foundation, Barral continued to investigate how the thickening of tissues in the body creates areas of greater mechanical tension that, in turn, pull on surrounding tissues. That discovery led him to the theoretical and practical development of visceral listening techniques. Barral's development of manual thermal evaluation began in 1971 during another treatment session. While treating a female patient, he felt a strong emanation coming from her mammary gland. He learned she had been operated on for a tumor in that area. Researching this phenomenon with other patients, he discovered just how accurately areas of stress in the body could be located by palpating the associated energy, which proved to be thermal. Consequent research has added manual thermal evaluation to many practitioners' evaluation tools. With the help of Dr. Serge Cohen, a Grenoble radiologist, Barral also documented changes in the viscera before and after manipulation. They employed x-ray fluoroscopy and ultrasound to record changes in position and motion, as well as fluid exchange and evacuation. Later they conducted additional research with a team of electrical engineers and technicians using infrared emissions from the body. Jean-Pierre Barral began teaching Visceral Manipulation in the United States in 1985. Since then he has trained a team of International Teachers that teach Visceral Manipulation seminars around the world. He has also authored numerous textbooks for healthcare professionals, including: Visceral Manipulation, Visceral Manipulation II, Urogenital Manipulation, The Thorax, Manual Thermal Evaluation, as well as Trauma: An Osteopathic Approach, Manual Therapy for the Peripheral Nerves, and Manual Therapy for the Cranial Nerves (the latter three were co-authored with Alain Croibier, D.O.). Jean-Pierre Barral has also authored a book for the general public, Understanding the Messages of Your Body, which discusses the link between our organs and our emotions. Barral continues to research and develop manual therapy techniques while maintaining a full clinical practice. Thanks to his pioneering work, candidates in several European countries must now pass a rigorous test in Visceral Manipulation to earn a diploma in osteopathy

The Therapeutic Value of Neural Manipulation

Neural Manipulation (NM) was developed in clinical practice by world-renowned French Osteopath and Physical Therapist Jean-Pierre Barral. French Osteopath Alain Croibier

collaborated with Jean-Pierre Barral to develop NM. The courses are based on clinical techniques personally developed by Jean-Pierre Barral combined with Alain Croibier's scientific information. Neural Manipulation examines mechanical relationships between the cranium/spine hard frame to the dura and neural elements. It provides assessment and treatment approaches to address restrictions of the dural and neural components not commonly focused on with musculoskeletal symptoms. Neural Manipulation identifies and releases local nerve restrictions while at the same time examines the effect these local fixations have on the rest of the body, and by accessing this relationship, resolves the more comprehensive (global) dysfunctional patterns. A nerve only functions correctly when it is able to move feely within its surrounding structures. The modality of Neural Manipulation facilitates nerve conductivity and intraneural blood supply for local and systemic responsiveness. By understanding the detailed anatomy of the neural manipulation, one can clearly see the potential for pathological change when nerves are restricted. Manual therapy, as it applies to the treatment of nerves, follows the standard principles of mobility and function. For optimal function nerves must be able to move freely within its surroundings. This freedom of movement is essential for:

nerve conduction electromagnetic conduction intraneural blood supply intraneural nerve supply local and systemic responsiveness

Neural Fixation
When a nerve is fixed, it typically looses its ability to glide and/or stretch in length. The intra- or peri-neural pressure dramatically increases, at the same time there are changes in consistency. The nerve pathway shows functional interferences (blood supply or electric and/or electromagnetic conductivity). With fixation smaller nerve sections can harden. They feel like buds and are very sensitive or painful to the touch. Such "Nerve Buds" are an indication of an intraneural interference, an overload of physiological pressure points or a local fibrosis. Nerve buds can be released very quickly, sometimes within one therapy session. Palpation of the skin branches of peripheral nerves can be useful for evaluative, as well for therapeutic considerations. When evaluating the skin branches, if they are sensitive or painful to pressure, typically there is a fixation of the deeper nerve branches.

Neural Manipulation and its Influence on Organs

Visceral Manipulation techniques can affect the movement apparatus and vice versa. It is important to note that the release of sensitive nerve buds can have a favorable effect on the functioning of the corresponding visceral organs. The neural manipulation is involved in all body functions and without neural control certain visceral activity cannot be maintained. The stimulation of nerves is processed centrally and reported back to the body as feedback. This sequence of responses functions providing no interference (fixation) is present. Whether the structures involved include joints, fascia, viscera, brain and peripheral nerves, or emotional centers, proper evaluation is essential for good therapeutic results. The treatment of a normal nerve section (without fixation) has no adverse effect, however a local nerve irritation can result. Generally, one thinks of a trauma as a severe injury that causes damage. This definition encompasses different gradients of external forces acting on the body. For example, not every joint trauma leads to a fracture or dislocation, which is verifiable by x-ray. From a medical standpoint, patients are often considered to be perfectly healthy, even though they are not at all the same as they were before sustaining a trauma. The same is generally true for the neural manipulation and the nerves. Traumatic nerve lesions typically do not result in a recognizable, well defined, clinical picture. Instead a broad spectrum of disturbances can be found. Because of their inconsistency and lack of evidence (with conventional examination methods and imaging procedures) symptoms are often overlooked. Often functional nerve lesions develop after neurotropic diseases (like herpes zoster) or as a result of posture imbalances. More frequently they derive from mechanical forces and energies: friction, pressure (compression) or traction forces (stretch), all of which affect the nerves. To bring about lesions, a trauma does not have to be severe. Often, it is a matter of repetitive micro-traumas. For example, a non-physiological movement, a harmless sprain, faulty posture or muscle contractions. Pathological processes can take place intra- and extraneurally. Intraneurally the trauma affects distinct nerve structures:

demyelination, neurinoma, hypoxia of certain fibers (in the conducting nerve tissues), epineural scarring, perifascicular edema, fibrosis, irritation of the arachnoid space or the dura mater (in the neural connective tissue).

These categories of pathology are rarely found in isolation. Clinically we typically find several together. Extraneural disturbances are caused chiefly by a narrowing of the spinal canal. Trauma can also impact the "nerve bud" or a functional intersection of the nerve tissue. For example, a nerve or epidural hematoma, an epineural tissue fixation, a dura

adhesion in the spinal canal, as well as pressure caused by bone or muscle swelling can result. Intra- and extraneural function disturbances often occur in tandem. In our opinion, they are closely connected with a neural fixation dysfunction and/or are even the cause of it. Our aim is to treat this kind of fixation with manual techniques or at least to minimize their negative results.

How Does Neural Manipulation Help You?

With interferences in certain body zones, the respective spinal cord and/or brain structures may also be irritated. A peripheral nerve treatment can influence these socalled facilitated areas and therefore promote a common or systemic effect. Manual treatments are basically effective due to the mechanical effects that cause neural stimuli, which can be transmitted at a local or central level. Manual neural manipulation changes intra- and extraneural pressure, improves sympathetic function to blood vessels due to the auto-innervation of the sympathetic gangli and sympathetic innervation of peri-neural connective tissues both of which are affected with treatment of fixations in the nerve sheaths.

How is Neural Manipulation Performed?

Treatment to nerves is through precise applied pressure. The tension of the perineurium and all other neural connective tissues is transmitted down to the root sheaths, so the distal contact has a central effect mechanically and reflexogenically.

The Therapeutic Value of New Manual Articular Approach

New Manual Articular Approach (MAA) was developed in clinical practice by worldrenowned French Osteopath and Physical Therapist Jean-Pierre Barral. French Osteopath Alain Croibier collaborated with Jean-Pierre Barral to develop MAA. The courses are based on clinical techniques personally developed by Jean-Pierre Barral combined with Alain Croibier's scientific information. "Articular" refers to the joints of the body, which are critical points of interconnectivity between all other structures within the body. Joints receive and emit messages with other parts of the body, and are also connected to our emotions. New Manual Articular Approach is a manual therapy modality that applies a comprehensive approach to the treatment of joints. It integrates all aspects of the joint including the nerve, artery, bone, capsule, and ligaments, as well as visceral and emotional connections. MAA delves into the joints like never before. It examines the nerves of each joint, along with the arteries, meniscus, ligaments, capsule attachments and folds. It incorporates soft tissue mobilization of the associated bones, while looking at direct and indirect relationships between the bones of the body. The relationship between the viscera and the joints is not

widely understood. MAA shows how interconnected they are and that without addressing this visceral connection many joint issues may not fully resolve. The application of the gentle MAA techniques improves the bodys ability to heal and restore itself to optimal health. MAA is a soft, hands-on manual therapy. Underneath the pain or diagnosis is a compensatory pattern created in the body with the initial source of the dysfunction often being far from where the pain is felt. A skilled MAA practitioner searches for this pattern and its source, evaluating the whole body and not just the problematic joint, and treats the related tissues. MAA treatment is comprised of precise gentle engagement and soft tissue mobilization of the associated bones, while looking at direct and indirect relationships between the bones of the body. As the source of a problem is released, symptoms will start to decrease. Reaction and response time can vary with each Manual Articular Approach treatment. A joint is so much more complex than a place where bones come together. It is comprised of multiple components including bone, cartilage, muscles, tendons, nerves, and fluid that when functioning properly, allow the joint to glide smoothly and painfree. If one component becomes problematic, the entire joint begins to compensate and not function properly. This leads to dysfunction ranging from temporary pain to longer term damage. All parts and systems within the body are interconnected joints included and when there is dysfunction in one place, other areas can be negatively impacted. A skilled MAA practitioner can properly assess the interactions of your joints with your body to help restore proper function. A symptom perhaps pain in a particular joint is considered to be a piece of the puzzle within the context of an MAA therapists patient evaluation, but the symptom is not necessarily viewed initially as the most important element. The cause of a problem may actually be located somewhere other than where the symptoms appear to be present. Particularly with joint pain, symptoms can be referred pain from another part of the body. Optimal health relies on a balanced relationship between the different systems of the body such as the nerves/nervous system, organs (viscera) and their support tissues, bones, and other structures. An MAA therapist identifies the source of disharmony in the body, as well as how and why it is impacting a joint where the patient is feeling symptoms. Through application of the gentle and specific MAA techniques, the patients body overall becomes less bound by dysfunctional patterns, releasing the affected joint and ultimately allowing the body to achieve a state of optimal health.

How Did Manual Articular Approach Begin?

Jean-Pierre Barral is an Osteopath and Registered Physical Therapist from France. He initially developed Visceral Manipulation, a manual therapy focusing on the internal organs of the body, which he began teaching in the United States in 1985. In addition, Jean-Pierre Barral and Alain Croibier, also an Osteopath from France, developed therapy techniques specific to the Nervous System, which lead to Neural Manipulation being

taught in the United States beginning in 1999. Jean-Pierre Barrals continued studies and clinical work, combines with Alain Croibiers scientific information, led to the development, practice, and teaching of "Manual Articular Approach," focusing on joints of the body. Since then, they have trained a team of International Instructors that teach Visceral Manipulation, Neural Manipulation and Manual Articular Approach seminars around the world. They have also authored numerous textbooks for healthcare professionals, including Visceral Manipulation, Manual Therapy for the Peripheral Nerves, Manual Therapy for the Cranial Nerve, Visceral Vascular Manipulation. Jean-Pierre Barral has also authored a book for the general public, Understanding the Messages of Your Body, which discusses the important link between our organs, emotion and health.

Manual Articular Approach Can Benefit:

Joint Pain Limited Mobility Joint Inflammation Sprains Tendinitis Osteoarthrosis Rotator Cuff Injuries And more.

Therapeutic Results
"I was diagnosed with arthrosis in my hip and I had a lot of pain. The therapist I worked with explained that he would be evaluating me to find the areas of my body that were out of balance and that could be aggravating the arthrosis. After several sessions my pain was dramatically diminished. My arthrosis may not go away, but after the Manual Articular sessions, it makes sense that with my body in better balance, the degeneration may slow down. And I am extremely grateful to have so much less pain." D.L., St. Petersburg, FL "I repeatedly injured my shoulder when training for fitness competitions. My therapist explained about a new therapy she had been studying, Manual Articular Approach, and suggested she evaluate me based on those principles. She discussed about my shoulders connection to my organs, blood vessels, and a connective tissue called fascia, as well as the role of the bones, ligaments and muscles. After several treatments my shoulder felt so much looser; I didnt realize how restricted it had been until I felt the big difference. I am confident this new therapy is getting to the cause of my recurring shoulder injury." D.D., New York, NY

The Therapeutic Value of Fascial and Membrane Technique

The science of anatomy has shown us that connective tissue for each of the systems of the body has clearly describable functions. It is known that it is just as present in the epimesial and divisional layers of the musculoskeletal system as in the fascial envelope layers of the organs and in the perineurial sheets of the neural manipulation. Histology is able to show the presence of connective tissue ranging from large areas of subdermal tissue to the periosteum and the smallest units of the cell. Thus, we now have enough information to understand the functions of each of the various layers of connective tissue within one bodily system. We can see how the fascial system surrounds individual muscles, divides them, and connects them to the periosteum by way of the tendons. We can see how membranes extend from the interior of the cranium by way of the dura mater and perineuria into the finest arborizations of the nervi nervosum. And it is therefore possible for us to construct an overall blue print of the body as an interlaced system of connective tissue chambers. This sort of analysis and classification therefore provides insight into the functions that the connective tissue performs for the anatomically defined subsystems. We also know which general functions the connective tissue performs for metabolism and the immune system. However, it is still unclear how connections between the individual subsystems arise and how the connective tissue as an organ of form provides the building blocks for these connections in the overall mosaic of the body (Varela and Frenk 1987:73-89). Fascial and Membrane Technique (FMT) applies to the outer and subdivisional layers, whether within the musculoskeletal system, the organ system, or the neural manipulation, or, if we choose the traditional osteopathic classifications, within the parietal, visceral and craniosacral region. The goal of FMT is to produce physiologically expedient mobility between the individual components of a region. If we achieve greater mobility in one region, effects will also be felt in the other regions. In the practice of FMT, the three-dimensional interconnection of fasciae and membranes means that the effects of a manual intervention simply cannot be limited to one individual subsystem of the body. Mobilization techniques, as soon as they are applied to the connective tissue system, are always a process that changes the shape of the whole organism as well. However, most examination procedures, in particular those taught in medical schools, relate only to the subsystems; therefore there is an information gap about the way a single subsystem constitutes shape regarding to the interconnection of the systems to one another in practice as well. If treatment is restricted to the subsystem alone, i.e. if detailed technique is used without a more "global" intermixing, then the therapist must rely on the greatest precision. The effectiveness of this sort of procedure lives and dies by the evaluative precision of the assessment of the subsystems and the "minimalist selection" of treatment steps.

FMT turns its attention to the bridging, interconnecting function of fasciae and membranes mentioned above. Fascaie and membranes are the medium of interaction between the individual systems of the organism; not only do they function within the individual systems, but they also serve as "mediators" between the various systems of the organism. FMT addresses these mediating functions. FMT on one hand is based on the basic osteopathic theme of mobilization that is as precise and as gentle as possible, and on the other hand, ties in with the form-stabilizing approach of Ida Rolf's Structural Integration. How, practically, should we proceed so that we can treat details in a precise manner, and, at the same time, have an effect on the larger form with its global interrelationships? One answer to this question may be found in the treatments of mobility restrictions in the ribcage; we treat the small components that may be found in the interior of the cavity in such a way that, at the same time, we are influencing the organization of the exterior form. A second answer may be found in the treatment of the segmental organization of the leg. We treat the details of the muscular fasciae, the intermuscular septa, and the interosseous membranes in such a way that a positive effect occurs on the fine tunic structures of the nerves and thus an improved neural function is supported. The nerve is the river; the fascia, membranes, and perineurial envelopes form the riverbed. In order to ensure a better equilibrium of flow in the river, we treat the riverbed. FMT is a part of the growing realm of what could be termed "spatial medicine" - the study of what can be accomplished through the modification of shape. Excerpt from Fascial and Membrane Technique by Peter Schwind. Publisher Churchill/Livingston/Elsevier, ISBN 0-443-10219-8. Available through the Barral Institute.

Seminar Schedule
We offer 3-4 day lab-intensive seminars throughout the year across the U.S., Canada and internationally. The material is immediately applicable in any clinical setting as it bridges the needs of various patient populations:

Orthopaedic Neurological Women's/Men's Health Pediatric Geriatric Oncological Sports Cardiovascular and Pulmonary General Wellness

Completion of the Visceral Manipulation courses provides an opportunity for practitioners to become certified through the Barral Institute as a Certified Visceral Manipulation Practitioner (CVMP). This is discussed in detail on our certification page. Our educational outreach includes products to effectively support you in your professional and educational goals. We are dedicated to providing the highest level of manual therapy education available. We invite you to peruse the information presented on our web site and to contact us to help you plan the next step in your pursuit of professional excellence.

Visceral Manipulation Certification

Visceral Manipulation Certification Visceral Manipulation Certification Application Frequently Asked Questions About Certification List and Contact Information for Certified BI Examiners Barral Institute Diplomate

Earn your certification in Visceral Manipulation from the Barral Institute - and assure patients your training comes straight from the source Jean-Pierre Barral, DO, MRO(F). There are two levels in the Certification Program:

Techniques Level CVTP Certified Visceral Techniques Practitioner. This covers VM1-VM4 Visceral Manipulation Level CVMP Certified Visceral Manipulation Practitioner. This covers VM5-VM6.

Certification Highlights:

Ensures a deep understanding of anatomy, physiology and Visceral Manipulation Therapy techniques. Helps preserve the right of qualified healthcare professionals to practice Visceral Manipulation. Demonstrates your commitment to excellence and enhances your networking and referral status establishes you as a dedicated professional with the highest standards of excellence. Allows you to use the professional designation "CVTP" or "CVMP" in your title.

Techniques Certification Level (CVTP)

Tuition: $300 Successfully complete the following seminars.

Visceral Manipulation: Abdomen 1 (VM1) Visceral Manipulation: Abdomen 2 (VM2) Visceral Manipulation: The Pelvis (VM3) Visceral Manipulation: The Thorax (VM4)

Successfully complete an at-home objective exam that covers VM1-VM4. Submit ten (10) case write-ups following the required format. Case write-ups format, which can also be found in the Frequently Asked Questions. Successfully complete a practical/oral/written exam with a Certified BI Examiner that tests your ability to understand and apply VM techniques from class levels VM1-VM4. To start your process to be a Certified Visceral Techniques Practitioner: 1. Complete the Certification application. 2. Register for CVTP (add item CVTP to your shopping cart and complete the purchase), or call BI at 866-522-7725 or 561-868-6898.

Visceral Manipulation Certification Level (CVMP)

Tuition: $300 Successfully complete Techniques Certification Level (CVTP) and the following seminars.

Visceral Manipulation: Manual Thermal Evaluation and Introduction to VisceroEmotional (VM5) Visceral Manipulation: VisceroEmotional Relationships (VM6)

Successfully complete an at-home objective exam that covers VM5-VM6. Submit ten (10) case write-ups following the required format. Case write-ups format, which can also be found in the Frequently Asked Questions. Successfully complete a practical/oral/written exam with a Certified BI Examiner that tests your ability to understand and apply VM techniques from class levels VM5-VM6. Note: Visceral Manipulation Certification includes Techniques Level. Techniques Certification must be successfully completed before sitting for the practical/oral/written exam of the Visceral Manipulation Level, or a person may take the overall Visceral Manipulation (CVMP) practical/oral/written exams at the same time, which cover VM1VM6. To start your process to be a Certified Visceral Manipulation Practitioner: 1. Complete the Certification Application. 2. Register for CVMP (add item CVMP to your shopping cart and complete the purchase), or call BI at 866-522-7725 or 561-868-6898.

A person is eligible to repeat each seminar they have attended (VM1-6) for $200 each while actively signed up for the corresponding Certification Program (upon space availability). Note: Visceral Manipulation Certification through the Barral Institute certifies a person's abilities in Visceral Manipulation (VM). Since certification does not provide a legal right to practice, a person must have the appropriate credential and/or license to practice manual therapy in their locale.

Course Descriptions
This page is structured firstly with a course overview and then course descriptions. Please scroll down for course descriptions and pre-requisites for each class or click on class name to move to its description. They are in order of Visceral Manipulation Courses, Neural Manipulation Courses and then other courses including Visceral Approach to Womens Health and Gynaecological Visceral Manipulation. Not all classes are currently offered by BIUK, although we hope to offer them all in the future. If you have a particular request for a class please do contact us. top of page

Visceral Manipulation Courses

Visceral Manipulation: Abdomen 1 (VM1)
Course Length: 4 Days, 24 Hours course time Synopsis: In VM1 you will study the models and theories of functional biomechanics as viewed from Barral's innovative approach. Course Highlights: Learn manual skills to locate, evaluate and normalize primary areas of dysfunction within the abdominal cavity. Explore the dynamics of motion and suspension in relation to organs, membranes and ligaments. Examine the relationship of organs and structural or neuromusculoskeletal dysfunction. Assess the quality of functional activity and somatic structures as they relate to an overall pattern. Prerequisite: Experience with sensitive, light-touch palpation Required Advance Reading: Visceral Manipulation by Jean-Pierre Barral, RPT, DO; Atlas of Human Anatomy by Frank Netter, MD, or A Regional Atlas of the Human Body by Carmine Clemente.

top of page

Visceral Manipulation: Abdomen 2 (VM2)

Course Length: 4 Days, 24 Hours course time Synopsis: In Visceral Manipulation: Abdomen 2 you will expand on the functional anatomy, hand placements and techniques you learned in Visceral Manipulation: Abdomen 1 to give you a deeper understanding of the abdominal cavity and its relationship to the cranial and thoracic cavities. Course Highlights: Explore the deeper structures within the abdominal cavity, focusing on the kidneys, pancreas, spleen, greater omentum, peritoneum, and their connective or suspensory tissues. Learn about the concept of restriction planes, mobility and motility. Begin to incorporate multiple long-lever techniques into your VM work. Participate in supervised, hands-on sessions that guide you through specific techniques for locating and evaluating each organ, along with the effects and contraindications. Prerequisite: VM1 (Abdomen 1) or VMIA (Visceral Manipulation IA). Required Advance Reading: Visceral Manipulation II by Jean-Pierre Barral, RPT, DO. top of page

Visceral Manipulation: The Pelvis (VM3)

Course Length: 4 Days,24 Hours course time Synopsis: Visceral Manipulation: The Pelvis (VM3) studies the relationship between functional and structural mechanics of the pelvis. Course Highlights: Learn to identify, receive and conduct Jean-Pierre Barrals method of evaluation and treatment for the organ systems of the pelvic cavity, including the integration of the pelvic organs with the complex ligament systems of that body region. Discover techniques for differentiating between somatic and visceral causes for pelvic and low back problems. Discover how to integrate the pelvic organs with the complex ligament systems of the body region. Explore additional principles of direct and indirect approaches and their appropriate applications. Integrate the pelvis into the body with principles of Lines of Tension. Prerequisite: VM2 (Abdomen 2) or VMIB (Visceral Manipulation IB).

Required Advance Reading: Urogenital Manipulation, by Jean-Pierre Barral, RPT, DO. top of page

Visceral Manipulation: The Thorax (VM4)

Course Length: 4 Days, 24 Hours course time Synopsis: After taking Visceral Manipulation: Abdomen 1 and 2, you've become acquainted with the feel of the different abdominal organs and local restrictions. In the Thorax workshop, you'll take an expanded look at the functional biomechanics of the thoracic cavity. You'll also explore the relationship between the hard frame and soft frame with its countless articulations for respiration, circulatory requirements and upper body movement patterns. Course Highlights: Explore visceral fascia of the throat and thoracic cavity. Review the anatomy, biomechanics and function of the thoracic organs. Study the biomechanics of the cervical, thoracic, rib cage and shoulder girdle complex. Learn techniques to release the soft tissue components of the thoracic inlet and hyoid apparatus. Practice listening techniques within the thoracic activity. Understand practical integration of the thoracic cavity organs. Learn integration of the thoracic organs with the complex ligament systems of that body region. Discover techniques for differentiating between somatic and visceral causes for thoracic and spinal problems. Special Focus on Pleura, Lungs, Pericardium, Heart, Mediastinum, Thyroid, Trachea, Oesophagus, Sternum, Rib Cage and Thoracic Plexuses. Prerequisite: VM2 (Abdomen 2) or VMIB (Visceral Manipulation IB). Required Advance Reading: The Thorax, by Jean-Pierre Barral, RPT, DO. top of page

Manual Thermal Evaluation and Introduction to VisceroEmotional (VM5)

Course Length: 4 Days, 24 Hours course time Synopsis: VM5 studies the use of Manual Thermal Evaluation to evaluate and improve organ functions.

Course Highlights: Learn the use of Manual Thermal Evaluation to find restrictions and organ dysfunction in the body. Explore the synchronicity between the body and brain, and how that affects the health of a person. Discover how the brain uses the internal organs to discharge and express excess energy (often of emotional origin) and how that affects structural integrity. Practice working with energy loss, locating structural restrictions contributing to pain, and managing a therapeutic session. Prerequisite: VM3 (The Pelvis) and VM4 (The Thorax). Required Advance Reading: Manual Thermal Evaluation by Jean-Pierre Barral, RPT, DO and Understanding the Messages of Your Body by Jean-Pierre Barral, RPT, DO. top of page

VisceroEmotional Relationships (VM6)

Course Length: 3 Days, 18 Hours course time Synopsis: Explore in depth the connections between our organs and our emotions. Course Highlights: Explore the body and the organism, physical energy, psychoemotional energy and release techniques all with respect to Jean Pierre Barrals unique visceral approach. Discover all three levels of Manual Thermal Evaluation, active and passive tissue emotional liberation, and psychoemotional liberation. Understand the Chicken-or-Egg Syndrome in relation to organ dysfunction and emotions. Learn how to break the visceroemotional cycle through Visceral Manipulation. As a workshop that would typically be offered at the post-graduate level, this course engages course participants in a dynamic exchange of information tailored to advanced skills. Prerequisite: VM5 (Manual Thermal Evaluation and Introduction to VisceroEmotional). Required Advance Reading: Understanding the Messages of Your Body by JeanPierre Barral, RPT, DO. top of page

Visceral Manipulation: Applications for Paediatrics (VAP)

Course Length: 4 Days, 24 Hours course time Synopsis: Visceral Manipulation: Applications for Paediatrics applies Visceral Manipulation techniques to working with infants, toddlers and children Course Highlights: Learn how early therapy on newborns and infants can possibly reduce the percentage of problems later in life. Explore embryology and the developmental landmarks (normal and abnormal) that occur month by month during and after gestation. Discover how to evaluate a baby or child. Learn general treatment ideas, such as how to work with babies, toddlers, and children, as well as working with those who are tactilely sensitive. Understand the signs of trauma, as well as evaluation and treatment techniques. Integrate specific treatment techniques for common visceral restrictions found in children, as well as Barrals approach to cranial techniques. Learn about Visceral Manipulation precautions and contraindications when working with children. Explore special considerations, e.g. typical surgeries, prematurity, children with neuromotor problems and craniosynostosis. Practice working with infants and children in a supervised environment. Prerequisites: VM1 (Abdomen 1) and VM2 (Abdomen 2), as well as sound knowledge of cranial anatomy. Any type of cranial training will enhance your seminar experience. NM1 (Neuromeningeal Manipulation), VM4 (Thorax) and LT (Listening Techniques) are recommended, but not required. Required Advance Reading: We leave it up to each prospective student to assume responsibility for advance preparation. A student may feel frustrated if they do not study beforehand and come prepared with the knowledge from the prerequisite classes. top of page

Visceral Manipulation: Viscerovascular Manipulation; Upper Body (VVM1) Visceral Manipulation: Viscerovascular Manipulation; Lower Body (VVM2)

Course Length: 3 Days Each, 18 Hours course time Synopsis: This course explores evaluation and treatment techniques for the vascular system of the body. Course Highlights: Review the anatomy and physiology of the vascular system, particularly how arteries dilate or diminish in diameter depending on the function of the body. Understand how compression along vascular structures creates restriction patterns and pain throughout the body. Learn to locate and release restrictions along the vascular structures using direct techniques on the arteries like compression, decompression and elongation, as well as indirect techniques using the limbs. Explore manipulation of the soft tissues of the heart itself, aorta, subclavian artery, along with all the arteries connected with the visceral system. Enhance your understanding of how increased blood circulation to an organ improves function of the viscera, and learn how to improve the blood circulation to organs, directly and/or indirectly. Learn treatment of the vaso-pressive system and the brain. Discover the research done with doppler ultrasound to determine the best mobilizations of the arteries to improve local and general blood circulation. Learn practical integration of vascular treatment into the therapeutic session. Prerequisites: VM1 (Abdomen 1), VM2 (Abdomen 2), and VM4 (Thorax). Required Advance Reading: Manual Therapy for Peripheral Nerves by JeanPierre Barral, RPT, DO; and Alain Croibier, D.O. top of page

Visceral Listening Techniques (LT)

Course Length: 3 Days, 18 Hours course time Synopsis: LT is designed to reinforce powerful "listening" skills. Course Highlights: Discover a new listening skills (palpation procedure) that helps guide you to the proper manipulation site. Learn to interpret the information the body is offering regarding imbalances and dysfunctions. Explore through listening how to determine which body structures are involved, and identify the best approach for treatment results.

Practice listening to the body systems, as they respond to your treatments. Learn to identify the correct approach and amount of force when working on different parts of the body and with different clients. Prerequisite: VM1 (Visceral Manipulation), or VMIA (Visceral Manipulation IA), or NM1 (Neuromeningeal Manipulation), or CSI (CranioSacral Therapy I), or LDTI (Lymph Drainage Therapy 1) or MLI (Mechanical Link I). Required Advance Reading: None

top of page

Listening Techniques 2: An Integrative Approach to Evaluation (LT2)

Course Length: 3 Days, 18 Hours course time. Synopsis: LT is designed to reinforce powerful evaluation tools known as "listening" skills. No matter what types of modalities you practice expanding your evaluation abilities will enhance your treatment outcomes. Listening Techniques are palpation tools developed by Jean-Pierre Barral, DO which enable you to fine-tune your assessment skills. Through Listening you will be able to determine which body structures are involved, and identify the best approach for treatment results. Course Highlights: Focused Listening on the brain, nerves, vascular system and articulations. Deepen "listening skills" (palpation procedure) that help guide you to the proper manipulation site. Learn to interpret the information the body is offering regarding imbalances and dysfunctions. Explore through listening how to determine which body structures are involved, and identify the best approach for treatment results. Practice listening to the body systems, as they respond to your treatments. Learn to identify the correct approach and amount of force when working on

different parts of the body and with different clients.

Prerequisite: LT class Required Advance Reading: None top of page

Advanced Neuro-Visceral Manipulation of the Abdomen (VMAA)

Course Length: 3 Days, 18 Hours course time The workshop will present specific and advanced techniques that work with the nervous system of the abdomen. Course Highlights: Discover locations in the body where the nervous system of the abdomen can be influenced directly or via trigger points. Evaluate and manipulate the nervous system in relation to the skin of the abdominal region. Explore the nervous system structures within the abdominal cavity, focusing on the hiatus, gallbladder, liver, pancreas, spleen, small intestine and large intestine. Participate in supervised, hands-on sessions that guide you through specific techniques for locating and evaluating very precise structural points related to the abdominal organs to facilitate optimal release of restricted tissues. Pre-requisite: Visceral Manipulation: Abdomen 2 (VM2) or VM1B Required Advanced Reading - be familiar with the contents of VM1 and VM2 and be aware of the anatomy of the abdominal nervous system.

Advanced Visceral Components of the Neck and Thorax (VMAT)

Course Length: 3 Days, 18 Hours course time Synopsis: The workshop will present specific and advanced techniques and explain the anatomy, breathing mechanism, function and physiology of the thorax. Course Highlights: Build on the knowledge of the thorax region as learned in VM4. Review the myofascial structures of the thorax. Explore the hyoid suspensory apparatus, thyroid, tonsils and pharynx.

Learn more precise techniques for the oesophagus, pleura, heart and pericardium Classify retropharyngeal space. Discover treatment techniques to enhance the breathing mechanism. Prerequisite: VM4 (Thorax). Required Advance Reading: The Thorax by Jean-Pierre Barral, RPT, DO.

top of page

Visceral Manipulation Dissection (VMD)

Course Length: 2 1/2 days Synopsis: Explore human anatomy with a visceral manipulation focus. Course Highlights: Develop increased anatomical knowledge through hands-on dissection, palpation, exploration and discovery of specific individual organs, the systems they function within and the structural integrity of the entire body. Observe dissection of the abdomen and pelvis, and dissection into the thorax. Observe dissection of the cranium with a Visceral Manipulation focus. Discover the detailed functional anatomy of abdomen, pelvis, thorax and cranium. Learn topographical discernment of organs in relationship to the musculoskeletal system. Break-out sessions with specific organs (liver, kidney, spleen, heart, lungs). Study the disposition of the various organs/structures to discern pathological conditions. Explore the dynamics of motion and suspension in relation to organs, membranes and ligaments. Prerequisite: VM1 (Abdomen 1) or VMIA (Visceral Manipulation IA). Required Advance Reading: None. top of page

Visceral Manipulation Certification (VMC)

There are 2 levels of Visceral Manipulation Certification. After levels VM1-4 there is the Techniques Certification, after levels VM5&6 there is the Diplomate Certification.

Synopsis: Earn your certification in Visceral Manipulation from the Barral Institute - and assure patients your training comes straight from the source Jean-Pierre Barral. Visceral Manipulation Certification through the Barral Institute is much more than a credential. The VM Certification credential establishes you as a dedicated professional with the knowledge and skills to uphold high standards of excellence. VM Certification increases your networking and referral status, as your colleagues and potential clients see your commitment to excellence. Visceral Manipulation Techniques Certification (CVTP) Certification Highlights: Ensures a deep understanding of anatomy, physiology and Visceral Manipulation Therapy techniques. Helps preserve the right of qualified healthcare professionals to practice Visceral Manipulation Demonstrates your commitment to excellence and enhances your networking and referral status. Paves the way to future healthcare legislation, licensing and insurance reimbursements. Techniques Certification: Allows you to use the professional designation "CVTP" in your title. Requirements: 1. Successfully complete the following seminars: Visceral Manipulation: Abdomen 1 (VM1) Visceral Manipulation: Abdomen 2 (VM2) Visceral Manipulation: The Pelvis (VM3) Visceral Manipulation: The Thorax (VM4)

2. Successfully complete a Techniques-level at-home objective exam for each class level. 3. Submit ten (10) case write-ups following the required format. 4. Successfully complete a practical /oral /written exam with a Certified BI Examiner that tests your ability to understand and apply VM techniques from class levels VM1-VM4. Note: Visceral Manipulation Certification through the Barral Institute certifies a persons abilities in Visceral Manipulation (VM). Since certification does not provide a legal right to practice, a person must have the appropriate credential and/or license to practice manual therapy in their area. top of page Visceral Manipulation Certification Diplomate Level Certification Highlights: Ensures a deep understanding of anatomy, physiology and Visceral Manipulation Therapy techniques. Helps preserve the right of qualified healthcare professionals to practice Visceral Manipulation Demonstrates your commitment to excellence and enhances your networking and referral status. Paves the way to future healthcare legislation, licensing and insurance reimbursements. Diplomate Certification: Allows you to use the professional designation "CVMP" in your title. Requirements: 1. Successfully complete the following seminars: Visceral Manipulation: Manual Thermal Evaluation and Introduction to

VisceroEmotional (VM5) Visceral Manipulation: VisceroEmotional Relationships (VM6) 2. Successfully complete at-home objective exam for each class level. 3. Submit ten (10) case write-ups following the required format. 4. Successfully complete a practical/oral/written exam with a Certified BI Examiner that tests your ability to understand and apply VM techniques from class levels VM5-VM6. Notes: Visceral Manipulation Practitioner Certification includes Techniques Level. Techniques Certification must be successfully completed before sitting for the practical/oral exam of the Visceral Manipulation Practitioner Level, or a person may take the Techniques and Visceral Manipulation Practitioner Level practical/oral/written exams at the same time. Visceral Manipulation Certification through the Barral Institute certifies a persons abilities in Visceral Manipulation (VM). Since certification does not provide a legal right to practice, a person must have the appropriate credential and/or license to practice manual therapy in their area.

top of page

Clinical Symposium with Jean Pierre Barral (SYMJP)

Course Length: 1 day Synopsis: Enjoy this exceptional opportunity to witness Jean-Pierre Barral -- the developer of Visceral Manipulation and Nerve Manipulation -- as he demonstrates his skills on pre-selected cases and audience volunteers (time permitting). Observe hands-on presentations in particular areas, such as paediatrics, geriatrics, low-back pain or fibromyalgia. Then spend the afternoon with Jean-Pierre Barral as he discusses these and other cases from a Visceral

Manipulation viewpoint. It's a rare opportunity to gain insight and expertise from one of the world's leading authorities in complementary care. Course Highlights: Receive detailed explanations as the instructor proceeds through each case. Closely observe the nuances of Barral's distinctive treatment style. Gain valuable information from other VM practitioners - the cases they're working on, areas they need advice in, patient successes. Prerequisite: Any healthcare practitioner may attend; only alumni of VM2 (Abdomen 2) or higher-level courses may participate in question-and-answer sessions. Required Advance Reading: None. top of page

Neural Manipulation Courses

Neural Manipulation: Neuromeningeal Manipulation (NM1)
Course Length: 3 Days, 18 Hours course time Synopsis: This is a specialized course focusing on the impact of whiplash. Course Highlights: Study the three primary areas of trauma as they relate to whiplash: physical laws, evaluation and treatment. Learn the appropriate anatomy and physiology for treatment of whiplash and trauma conditions. Learn to locate and release restrictions along the meningeal system. Assess injuries to the soft tissues of the cervical region and learn treatment protocols for optimal release. Learn tests to determine restriction patterns of the cervicobrachial region. Understand how whiplash creates restriction patterns throughout the body. Identify techniques that encompass the whole body, as the whole body receives collision forces in a whiplash injury, not just the cervical spine. Learn to evaluate restrictions in the lumbosacral region. Discover new applications of visceral manipulation principles and techniques as they can be utilized for patients presenting whiplash and other conditions involving trauma. Compare treatment sequence and tests for whiplash and traumatic injuries. Prerequisite: Experience with manual listening skills. Required Advance Reading: Trauma: An Osteopathic Approach by Jean-Pierre Barral, RPT, DO.

top of page

Neural Manipulation: Peripheral Nerve Manipulation; Upper Body (NM2)

Course Length: 3 Days,18 Hours course time Synopsis: This course explores evaluation and treatment techniques for peripheral nerves of the upper body. Course Highlights: Explore in detail the anatomy and function of the peripheral nerves of the upper body. Discover typical pain patterns that arise from dysfunction of these peripheral nerves. Learn evaluation methods and treatment techniques to facilitate normal functioning of these peripheral nerves. Discover various methods for releasing restrictions in nerves. Explore practical integration into treatment sessions. Prerequisite: Neural Manipulation: Neuromeningeal Manipulation (NM1) or Visceral Approach to Trauma and Whiplash (VTW). Required Advance Reading: Manual Therapy for Peripheral Nerves by JeanPierre Barral, RPT, DO; and Alain Croibier, D.O. top of page

Neural Manipulation: Peripheral Nerve Manipulation; Lower Body (NM3)

Course Length: 3 Days, 18 Hours course time Synopsis: This course explores evaluation and treatment techniques for peripheral nerves of the lower body. Course Highlights: Explore in detail the anatomy and function of the peripheral nerves of the lower body. Discover typical pain patterns that arise from dysfunction of these peripheral nerves. Learn evaluation methods and treatment techniques to facilitate normal functioning of these peripheral nerves. Discover various methods for releasing restrictions in nerves. Explore practical integration into treatment sessions.

Prerequisite: Neural Manipulation: Neuromeningeal Manipulation (NM1) or Visceral Approach to Trauma and Whiplash (VTW). Required Advance Reading: Manual Therapy for Peripheral Nerves by JeanPierre Barral, RPT, DO; and Alain Croibier, D.O. top of page

Neural Manipulation: Brain and Cranial Nerve Manipulation (NM4)

Course Length: 3 Days, 18 Hours course time Synopsis: This course explores evaluation and treatment techniques for nerves of the brain, and cranial region. Course Highlights: Explore in detail the anatomy and function of the brain and cranial nerves. Discover typical pain patterns that arise from dysfunction of the brain and cranial nerves. Learn evaluation methods and treatment techniques to facilitate normal functioning of these nerves. Learn differential evaluation skills to determine skull, suture and brain fixation. Explore how compressions of the brain cause dysfunction in the cranial nerves. Discover how intracranial pressure affects the function of the entire body, and cranial techniques to bring about normal functioning. Learn practical integration into treatment sessions. Prerequisite: Neural Manipulation: Peripheral Nerve Manipulation; Upper Body (NM2) and Peripheral Nerve Manipulation; Lower Body (NM3) or Visceral Approach to Trauma and Whiplash II (VTWII). Required Advance Reading: Manual Therapy for Cranial Nerves by Jean-Pierre Barral, RPT, DO; and Alain Croibier, D.O.

top of page

Visceral, Neural and Articular Advanced Clinical Synthesis (VNAC)

Course Length: 3 Days, 18 Hours course time VNAC, developed by Jean-Pierre Barral, is designed to help Visceral, Neural and Manual Articular trained practitioners sharpen their skills by integrating these

evaluation and treatment techniques in the clinical setting. Course Highlights:

Maximize the results for patients by integrating information from previous VM, NM and MAA seminars. Learn to effectively blend the various modalities for the most complete evaluation and treatment. Understand how Jean-Pierre Barral works with patients in his clinic utilizing all the evaluation and treatment techniques. Learn how Jean-Pierre determines where to begin treatment keeping in mind that the cause is often far removed from the location of the patients pain. Gain insights into using time and energy most efficiently during patient sessions. Understand how to connect tensions found in the body with the emotional centers and incorporate precise emotional release. Through the clinical synthesis of the techniques discover what to do for specific symptoms such as headaches, low back pain, liver problems, and knee pain.

Pre-requisite: VM3 OR VM4; and NM2 OR NM3; and MALE OR MAUE OR MASP Advance Preparation: To prepare for the course we suggest that you review your class notes and study guides from the pre-requisite classes.

Neural Manipulation Certification (NMC)

Description and Prerequisites to come. top of page

New Manual Articular Approach to the Joints Courses Manual Articular Approach: Upper Extremity (MAUE) Manual Articular Approach: Lower Extremity (MALE) Manual Articular Approach: Spine and Pelvis (MASP)
Course Length: 3 Days each course, 18 Hours course time Synopsis: These courses explore a comprehensive approach to joints. They integrate all aspects of the joint including the nerve, artery, bone, capsule, and ligaments, as well as visceral and emotional connections. Course Highlights:

Delve into the joints like never before. Examine the nerves of each joint, along with the arteries, meniscus, ligaments, capsule attachments and folds. Work with soft tissue mobilization of the associated bones, while looking at direct and indirect relationships between the bones of the body. Explore the relationship between the viscera and the joints. Discover how the joints receive and emit messages with other parts of the body, as well as the emotional connections. Learn how to evaluate and treat each major joint (spine, shoulder, elbow, wrist, pelvis, knee, ankle) for its primary dysfunction from the anatomical or physiological systems that contribute to it. Explore such indications as clinical pain, sprains, arthrosis, and inflammation in a brand new way. Understand why Jean-Pierre Barral feels that this will become his most famous curriculum. Prerequisite: Professional healthcare practitioner, student in healthcare program or graduate awaiting licensure/accreditation with experience in manual listening skills and must have strong anatomy knowledge of peripheral nerves. Neural Manipulation: Peripheral Nerve Manipulation; Upper Body (NM2) and Peripheral Nerve Manipulation; Lower Body (NM3) recommended but not required. Required Advance Reading: Manual Therapy for Peripheral Nerves by JeanPierre Barral, RPT, DO; and Alain Croibier, D.O.

top of page

Other Related Courses

Visceral Approach to Womens Health
Course Length: 4 Days, 30 Hours course time Synopsis: This course is a unique class that does not fall under the Barral Institute. This course will introduce you to visceral manipulation concepts with reference to womens health conditions. It has been created and is taught by Gail Wetzler, PT,CVMI, California USA. Gail has instructed visceral manipulation since 1992, and has been Director of the Visceral Manipulation Curriculum since 2000. Course Highlights: Visceral Approach to womens health has been designed to educate participants on the anatomy, mobility, and motility of the pelvic viscera.

Specific focus will include the bladder, rectum, uterus, ovaries, and an introduction to the kidneys. Video and patient demonstration will focus on examination and intervention strategies. Internal pelvic techniques will be presented from Jean Pierre Barrals, DO, MRO(F), advanced pelvic. Gail Wetzler has obtained special permission from Barral to teach this material for the Section on Womens Health You will also learn how the internal techniques can enhance your intervention outcomes for bladder, uteral, rectal, and pelvic floor dysfunctions. Prerequisite: Only open to physiotherapists, chiropractors, osteopaths and medical doctors due to the internal pelvic techniques component. No previous visceral manipulation training is required. top of page

Gynaecological Visceral Manipulation

Course Length: 1 Day, 7 Hours course time Synopsis: This course is a unique class that does not fall under the Barral Institute. This course is designed as advanced training for those who have already studied visceral manipulation. It has been created and is taught by Gail Wetzler, PT,CVMI, California USA. Gail has instructed visceral manipulation since 1992, and has been Director of the Visceral Manipulation Curriculum since 2000. Course Highlights: Internal pelvic techniques will be presented from Jean Pierre Barrals, DO, MRO(F), advanced pelvic. Gail Wetzler has obtained special permission from Barral to teach this material for the Section on Womens Health You will also learn how the internal techniques can enhance your intervention outcomes for bladder, uteral, rectal, and pelvic floor dysfunctions. Prerequisite: Only open to physiotherapists, chiropractors, osteopaths and medical doctors due to the internal pelvic techniques component. Previous completion of either VM3 Pelvis class or Visceral Approach to Women's Health class is required. top of page Address: Barral Institute UK

26 Miller Road Ayr KA7 2AY Tel/fax: 01292 266335 Email: info@barralinstitute.co.uk