Autism Support & Research
Autism Support & Research
Integrating osteopathy, research, and compassionate care to support autistic children and their families.
At IBCcare, Dr. Iona Bramati, PhD, BSc (Hons) Ost Med, DO, ND, brings over two decades of clinical and academic expertise to the care of children on the autism spectrum.
Her approach combines gentle visceral osteopathic techniques, functional medicine, and naturopathic support, all grounded in evidence-based research on the gut–brain connection and its role in overall wellbeing.
01.
Improve Mobility & Relieve Pain
Our osteopathic care supports recovery from injuries, chronic pain and postural imbalances, helping you move freely and comfortably.
02.
Holistic Support for Autism
Recognised for our research on the gut-brain connection, IBCcare provides integrative care to support children and families living with autism.
03.
Support Gut & Immune Health
Our functional medicine and naturopathic care address digestive issues, fatigue and autoimmune conditions by identifying root causes.
A Research-Based Approach to Autism Support
Dr. Bramati’s PhD thesis, “Effectiveness of Visceral Osteopathic Treatment on Gastrointestinal Indicators and Behaviour Patterns in Autistic Children; Using Questionnaire and Biochemical Markers to Measure Outcomes” (Bramati-Castellarin et al., 2016), explored how visceral osteopathy may influence both gastrointestinal symptoms and behavioural indicators in autistic children.
The results showed positive symptomatic changes, suggesting that low-invasive abdominal manual techniques could help improve quality of life for children with autism who experience gastrointestinal discomfort.
While osteopathy does not claim to cure autism or its comorbidities, this research highlights the value of a holistic, supportive approach that considers both body and behaviour.
The Gut–Brain Connection
The gut–brain axis plays a critical role in how the body responds to stress and processes emotions, influencing digestion, mood and behaviour.
Research has shown that stress and anxiety can directly affect gastrointestinal function through neural and hormonal pathways — impacting motility, gut permeability, and microbial balance.
Studies (Konturek et al., 2011; Aro et al., 2009; Blomhoff et al., 2001; Park et al., 2013) have demonstrated how emotional and neurological factors interact with gut health, supporting the holistic model applied at IBCcare: improving physical function can often bring relief to emotional and behavioural symptoms.
Visceral Osteopathy and the Role of the Gut
The viscera — organs in the abdominal cavity such as the stomach, liver, and intestines — are constantly in motion due to breathing, circulation, and internal peristalsis.
When these natural rhythms are restricted, it can affect digestion, immunity, and overall wellbeing.
Visceral osteopathy uses gentle manual techniques to restore mobility and optimise function.
Studies (Barral & Mercier, 2006–2007; Stone, 1999; Hoge et al., 2012; Dehghan et al., 2020) have shown that manual interventions such as abdominal massage and lymphatic pumping can positively influence gastrointestinal health and immune response.
Autism Health Hub® – Supporting Parents and Professionals
Dr Bramati, PhD is the founder of Autism Health Hub®, an online platform providing evidence-based information, training and community support for both parents and healthcare professionals.
At Autism Health Hub®, the mission is to:
Offer parents reliable guidance from pre-diagnosis through ongoing care
Bridge the gap between medical and complementary therapies
Provide professional CPD training for practitioners working with autistic children
Promote understanding, awareness and collaboration within the autism community
“Our goal is to help parents and professionals so that, together, we can help the children.” — Dr Iona Bramati, PhD
THE BRAMATI® METHOD
Clinical Support at IBCcare
In-clinic, Dr Bramati offers personalised support for children with autism and related neurodevelopmental challenges.
Her treatments aim to:
Ease gastrointestinal tension and discomfort
Support mobility, breathing and posture
Each treatment plan is developed collaboratively with parents, integrating osteopathic care, lifestyle and nutritional guidance, and when appropriate, referrals to other trusted professionals in the IBCcare network. We recommend renowned professionals in the Autism Field.
Your First Appointment: What to Expect
We make it simple to begin your treatment journey:
Pre-Treatment Online Consultation
Before your first visit, you’ll have a secure video consultation to discuss your health history and concerns.
Face-to-Face Consultation & Treatment
During your in-person appointment, Dr Bramati will assess your case, then provide hands-on treatment tailored to your needs.
Personalised Plan & Follow-Up
You’ll receive guidance on exercises, lifestyle adjustments, and ongoing care to help maintain long-term results.
REASEARCH PAPERS
Research & Publications
Dr Bramati’s work has been recognised internationally:
PhD awarded by the University of Westminster, in collaboration with King’s College Hospital, and endorsed by the National Autistic Society (NAS)
Elsevier / ICAOR10 New Researcher Prize for outstanding contribution to osteopathic research
REFERENCES
Research Supporting Osteopathy
TESTIMONIALS
What Clients Are Saying
Daniel J.
Julia M.
Michelle S.
How to Book & Opening Hours
How to Book:
Appointments can be booked online through our secure booking system.
Simply click the Book Appointment button, select your preferred time, and you will receive a confirmation by email.
Prefer to speak with us directly?
You can also schedule your appointment by calling our clinic at 020 7792 4499.
Opening Hours:
Pre-treatment online consultation (compulsory prior to the first Face-to-Face consultation) – Monday & Wednesday: 2pm – 6pm
Face-to-Face consultation (in-person treatment at our Marylebone clinic) – Tuesday & Thursday: 10am – 6pm | Wednesday: 2pm – 6pm
Location & Contact:
IBCcare Marylebone
9 Upper Wimpole Street
Marylebone, London W1G 6LJ
IBCcare Blackheath
Room 14
18 Tranquil Vale
Blackheath, London SE3 0AX
Please ring our friendly reception team at 020 7792 4499 or click the Book Appointment button for our online booking.
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