osteopathy for
Digestive Problems
Who is the treatment suitable for?
Osteopathy can offer a solution for digestive complaints that do not improve or for which no clear cause is found – especially when these are accompanied by back, neck or pelvic complaints, or after abdominal surgery.
Digestive problems can manifest in various ways: a bloated feeling, constipation, abdominal pain, heartburn, flatulence or nausea. These complaints are common, but in regular healthcare, a clear explanation is often lacking. Often there is no underlying disease, but the body is out of balance.
Disrupted nerve and organ control
Digestion is controlled by the autonomic nervous system. During stress, the body switches to the “fight-or-flight” mode: blood flow goes to muscles and brain, while digestion fades into the background. A short stress reaction is not harmful, but in many people, this system is chronically activated, causing long-term disruption of digestion.
Stress is not the only factor at play here. Movement restrictions in the spine or upper neck region can also put pressure on the nerve pathways to the stomach and intestines. The stomach receives signals from the thoracic vertebrae (T5-T9) and via the vagus nerve in the neck. When there is tension or blockages in these regions, those signals are less effectively transmitted. This can lead to reduced production of digestive juices or slowed intestinal movement, resulting in complaints such as constipation, bloating, or abdominal pain.
Constipation with back and pelvic complaints
Constipation often occurs in people with back or pelvic complaints. Tension in these areas can extend to the abdomen and slow down intestinal passage. The peritoneum can also adhere, further limiting the mobility of the intestines.
Scar tissue and
digestion
Scar tissue after surgery or inflammation can cause adhesions in the abdomen. This limits the mobility of the intestines and disrupts their function. Because intestines consist of muscle layers that need to be in constant motion, these adhesions can lead to symptoms such as bloating, constipation, or abdominal pain.
How osteopathy helps with digestive complaints
In my practice, I use gentle, manual techniques to:
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Restore the mobility of abdominal organs and spine
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Normalize nerve control
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Calm the body
This improves digestion, reduces complaints such as constipation and abdominal pain, and brings the body back into a state of balance and recovery.
What can you expect from the treatment?
Within two to three treatments, it is usually clear whether osteopathy has sufficient effect to reduce or even eliminate the complaints. Sometimes it turns out that stress, food intolerances, or lifestyle factors play a larger role. In that case, I am happy to think along with you about an appropriate next step or refer you to another discipline if necessary.
don't let digestive complaints dictate your daily life
Even if you have already tried everything, there is often still progress to be made once the body receives the right stimulus. Digestive problems do not have to remain a part of your daily life.
Curious about what osteopathy can mean for you? Make an appointment or contact us for more information.