Join us for
Visceral Manipulation 1: Terminal Midgut, Hindgut, and Pelvic Organ Treatment
Salt Lake City, UT
March 6-7, 2026
Become a better practioner by:
Understanding the anatomical and physiological principles of cranial osteopathy as taught by Arbuckle.
Learning to assess cranial and sacro-occipital imbalances through specific techniques.
Practicing mobilization methods for cranial bones and related structures.
Applying these skills to enhance patient care within an osteopathic framework.
Overview
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Summary
Course Overview
The Cranial–Visceral Axis is an advanced osteopathic manual therapy course that integrates Beryl Arbuckle’s approach to cranial osteopathy with Chapman’s neuroendocrine reflexes to address dysfunction along the neurohormonal and gut–brain axis.
This course is designed for clinicians who want to move beyond symptom-based cranial work and develop a precise, test–retest–driven system for regulating autonomic, endocrine, and visceral function. Participants will learn how cranial strain patterns, dural tension, and reciprocal tension mechanisms influence hypothalamic–pituitary signaling, vagal tone, and visceral reflex pathways—and how Chapman’s reflexes provide a powerful peripheral access point into these systems.
Meet Your Instructor
Neal O’Neal graduated from University of Washington with a Bachelor of Science degree in Physical Therapy. Continuing his educational development, Neal trained in The Makenzie Approach to Low Back Treatment, Foot/Ankle Biomechanics in Gait and Sport, and Upper Extremity Biomechanics in Sport and Posture.
A focus on Golf Biomechanics training took Neal to volunteer his services at the LPGA Safeco Classic at Kent Meridian Golf Course. His continued focus on therapeutic development led him to The Washington Institute of Sports Medicine’s Acceleration Training Program and then on to Advanced Ergonomics, Inc.’s Pre-Employment Testing and Trainers program.
At the latter, Neal specialized in cardiovascular screenings as applied to pre-employment tests. As a Site Instructor for Advanced Ergonomics, Inc., Neal trained many testing sites and performed work-site evaluations for Newcastle Brick, The US Army at Fort Lewis, and the Washington Teachers Union.
From 2000-2016, Neal trained extensively at The Jones Institute and The Ursa Foundation to develop manual therapy expertise. He also worked with BioforceHRV in developing the use of Heart Rate Variability as a research and treatment tool for Ursa Educational Institute for Manual Therapy.
Neal is a past Director of Research for the Ursa Educational Institute for Manual Therapy, helped present and teach in Ghent, Belgium as part of the International Conference on Research in Osteopathic Medicine, and continues in Translational Research (turning current research into advanced treatment approaches and techniques) for Pursuit Performance Training, an Advanced Manual Therapy Educational Institute.
Most recently, Neal became certified in Functional Range Conditioning and has added several classes utilizing this self-directed exercise modality to further the benefits of manual therapy intervention. Currently, Neal maintains a busy manual therapy practice in Redmond and Renton, Washington.
Course Details
Objectives & Learning Outcomes
The course objectives are structured to ensure participants gain both theoretical knowledge and practical skills. Upon completion, attendees will be able to:
- Explain the anatomical and physiological basis of cranial osteopathy as per Arbuckle’s teachings, focusing on the sphenobasilar symphysis and sacro-occipital relationships.
- Perform comprehensive assessments to identify cranial motion and dysfunction, including evaluating the PRM and related imbalances.
- Apply a range of mobilization techniques to address these imbalances, such as gentle manipulation of cranial bones and sacro-occipital adjustments.
- Integrate cranial mobilization into their existing osteopathic practice, enhancing patient care by addressing subtle rhythms and movements in the cranial and sacral regions.
These outcomes are designed to equip practitioners with the ability to detect and work with the subtle dynamics of the cranial system, a key aspect highlighted in Arbuckle’s approach.
Target Audience & Prerequisites
The course is tailored for osteopaths, chiropractors, physical therapists, and other manual therapists who have a foundational understanding of osteopathic principles.
This audience is chosen because cranial mobilization requires a background in osteopathic philosophy and practice to fully appreciate and apply Arbuckle’s techniques.
Prerequisites include:
Basic knowledge of osteopathic principles and practice, ensuring participants can contextualize cranial work within a holistic framework.
Understanding of cranial and sacral anatomy, which is essential for performing the assessments and techniques taught in the course.
These outcomes are designed to equip practitioners with the ability to detect and work with the subtle dynamics of the cranial system, a key aspect highlighted in Arbuckle’s approach.
This ensures that participants are equipped to engage with the material and apply it effectively in their practice.This audience is chosen because cranial mobilization requires a background in osteopathic philosophy and practice to fully appreciate and apply Arbuckle’s techniques.
Key Topics Covered
The curriculum is divided into several key topics to provide a holistic understanding of Arbuckle’s methods:
- The Primary Respiratory Mechanism (PRM): This topic covers the significance of the PRM in cranial osteopathy, explaining how it influences cerebrospinal fluid flow and overall health. Arbuckle’s writings emphasize its role as a central organizing principle.
- Anatomy of the Cranium and Sacro-Occipital Region: Participants will study the anatomy of the cranial bones, including the sphenobasilar symphysis, and the relationship with the sacrum, drawing from Arbuckle’s focus on these connections.
- Assessment Techniques: The course will teach methods for evaluating cranial motion and dysfunction, such as palpating for restrictions and assessing the PRM, aligning with Arbuckle’s diagnostic approach.
- Specific Mobilization Techniques: Hands-on workshops will cover techniques for mobilizing cranial bones and related structures, including adjustments to enhance fluid dynamics and balance.
- Cranium-Sacrum Relationship: This section will explore the interplay between the cranium and sacrum, teaching techniques to balance this relationship, a hallmark of Arbuckle’s integration of sacro-occipital techniques.
- Clinical Case Studies: Real-world applications will be discussed, demonstrating how Arbuckle’s methods can be applied in clinical settings to improve patient outcomes.
These topics ensure a comprehensive exploration of Arbuckle’s contributions, emphasizing both cranial and sacro-occipital aspects.
Format & Duration
The course format includes a mix of lectures on theory and principles, hands-on workshops for practical skills, and case studies for clinical application. Lectures will cover the theoretical underpinnings of Arbuckle’s methods, while workshops will provide opportunities to practice mobilization techniques under guidance. Case studies will allow participants to discuss and analyze real-world scenarios, enhancing their ability to integrate these skills into practice.
The duration of the course is a 2-day intensive workshop.
Conclusion
This course offers a unique opportunity to explore the depths of cranial mobilization through the lens of Beryl Arbuckle, DO’s writings. By focusing on her innovative techniques and the integration of cranial and sacro-occipital work, participants will elevate their practice, enhancing patient care with a deeper understanding of the body’s subtle rhythms and dynamics. Join us to immerse yourself in this transformative approach to osteopathic manual therapy.