So, what is SIBO? SIBO refers to a condition where bacteria that shouldn’t exist in large quantities is overgrowing in the small intestine. It is important to understand that bacteria normally exist within the small and large intestine but the levels of concentration are different between these two organs because of their functions. The small intestine typically contains relatively small numbers of bacteria (very small in the first portions and then slowly increases as you get to the end) while the large intestine contains very high amounts of bacteria (home of our gut microbiome). This allows the small intestine to be the primary site of digestion and nutrient absorption while the large intestine is primarily responsible for water reabsorption and the breaking down of indigestible foodstuff. When bacteria starts to overgrow in the small intestine, it interferes with digestion and absorption of nutrients, resulting in the typical symptoms of bloating, gas, constipation or diarrhea, and various food reactions.
Where does visceral manipulation fit into this? The gentle manual therapy techniques used in visceral manipulation can create neuroplastic changes within the digestive tract to assist in the retraining of the neural regulation of the impacted organs. We use our hands to improve muscle tonicity, reduce adhesions or restrictions limiting movement, and increase proprioception of the treated area. The techniques have a direct and indirect impact on the function of the vagus nerve which allows for improved central nervous system and enteric nervous system control of the digestive tract and associated organs. This ultimately allows for improved function of the ileocecal valve and migrating motor complex to help improve healing and reduce symptoms.
