Integrated Osteopathic Approach to the Vagus, Phrenic, and Splanchnic Nerves

Introduction

One of the keys to the art and science of osteopathy lies in the continuity and coordination of neural input, which supports fluid circulation, helps maintain hormonal balance, and promotes the body’s natural ability to self-regulate.

In this course, I will introduce an integrated approach based on choosing the appropriate method, at the appropriate time, with a clear and focused intention.

The goal is to support the body’s natural capacity to adapt and restore balance.

This approach will specifically explore the dynamic relationships and functional interactions between the vagus, phrenic, and splanchnic nerves, helping you better understand how their coordination influences overall physiological function

and clinical outcomes.

Course Objectives

• To introduce precise and original manual techniques aimed at assessing and optimizing the pathways of the vagus, phrenic, and splanchnic nerves, as well as their related plexuses.
• To develop refined, effective, and safe fascial, visceral, viscero-somatic and somato-visceral manipulation skills based on gentle and targeted approaches.
• To acquire and refine palpatory skills through structured assessment methods, including different palpation protocols (Protocol 1, 2 and 3)
• To enhance clinical reasoning by improving your ability to integrate neurophysiological concepts into hands-on practice.†
• To provide you with practical tools to design clear, coherent, and individualized treatment plans.
• To support a more confident, efficient, and enjoyable clinical practice, both for you and your patients.

† © Claude Dufour – All rights reserved

Programme

Day 1 – Pelvic Sphere and Lower Limbs

Focus on lumbopelvic integration and lower extremity dynamics within a somatovisceral and viscero-somatic perspective

Day 2 – Lumbar Spine and Thoraco-Lumbar Junction

Focus on lumbar stability, load transfer, and abdominal-visceral integration

Day 3 – Thoracic Region and Rib Cage‡

Focus on respiratory mechanics, autonomic balance, and thoraco-abdominal relationships

Day 4 – Cranio-Cervical Region

Focus on upper neurological integration and global regulation

Information about the course instructor

Claude Dufour, D.O., is teaching at several campuses in Canada,  Germany and Switzerland.
Over the past several years, his clinical and academic interests have focused on the interrelationships between the various mechanisms of health, including neuro-psycho-immuno-endocrinology, as well as the optimal expression of the individual at the physical, psychological, emotional, and spiritual levels. This ongoing exploration has led him to develop an integrated and effective clinical approach that will serve as the foundation of this training.

It is within this perspective that he looks forward to sharing with you not only practical tools and clinical reasoning, but also the depth and richness of osteopathic tradition, as inspired by senior osteopaths with whom he has had the privilege to work and learn, among many others, including Thomas Schooley,

D.O., Anne Wales, D.O., Gerald Lamb, D.O., Viola Fryman, D.O., and Bernard Darraillans, D.O.