Techniques used in animal osteopathy: cranial, visceral and structural approach

Animal osteopathy, as practiced by Manimal, is based on precise techniques, adapted to each individual. Among them, the cranial approach stands out for its finesse and sensitivity. It is based on listening to the craniosacral rhythm and evaluating the tensions in the skull, spine and sacrum. This non-invasive method is particularly recommended for behavioural disorders, the aftermath of trauma or postural imbalances. Manon Turbé, animal osteopath and founder of Manimal, uses it in particular to improve the comfort and concentration of sport horses, but also to rebalance anxious or agitated dogs.

The cranial approach requires in-depth expertise in animal physiology and a keen sense of tactile listening. At Manimal, this sensitivity is at the heart of our support, whether it is preventive or curative monitoring. By working on cranial micro-movements, the osteopath allows the animal to release deep, sometimes long-standing tensions. It is a gentle but powerful technique, which reflects Manon Turbé’s commitment to a respectful and personalised practice.

Animal osteopathy and the visceral approach: restoring internal functions

The visceral dimension in animal osteopathy aims to restore mobility to the internal organs and to harmonise their interaction with the surrounding structures. Digestive dysfunction, respiratory difficulty or an overall decrease in energy may reflect a visceral imbalance. At Manimal, this approach is integrated into our overall consultations, making it possible to detect tensions that are often invisible to the naked eye, but perceptible to the expert touch of an animal osteopath.

The objective is to promote a return to functional balance. Manon Turbé pays particular attention to the environment and background of each animal, in line with the holistic approach of osteopathy. Visceral manipulations are generally well tolerated, and the observed benefits include improved recovery, improved digestion, and reduced inflammation. On its website, Manimal offers home visits throughout the Greater West region, as well as a livestock support service, in which the visceral approach is often used for prevention.

Animal osteopathy and the structural approach: rebalancing body mechanics

The structural approach constitutes the historical basis of animal osteopathy. It focuses on musculoskeletal disorders and the biomechanics of the body. This is the technique that we often associate with joint manipulation, but it goes far beyond that. At Manimal, this method is rigorously applied to treat lameness, relieve back pain or optimise the physical performance of a sport animal. The animal osteopath assesses the asymmetries, mobility restrictions and compensations developed by the animal.

By favouring an individualised approach, with precise gestures adapted to the morphology of each species, whether for a horse, a dog or a cat, the objective remains the same: to restore joint mobility and muscular flexibility, while respecting living creatures. This attention to detail, combined with tailor-made monitoring, makes Manimal a benchmark for demanding owners who are concerned about the long-term wellbeing of their animals.

The cranial, visceral and structural techniques, although distinct, are articulated in a global vision of animal osteopathy, rigorously carried out by Manimal. This integrative approach, based on an in-depth knowledge of the anatomy and needs of the animal, makes it possible to respond to a wide range of problems, whether they are physical, physiological or emotional. Thanks to her expertise and her travelling practice, Manon Turbé offers consistent, respectful and adapted care, at the heart of the ethics of the committed animal osteopath. A philosophy that can be found in every service offered by Manimal, serving the bond between humans and animals.