Rolfing Structural Integration

Rolfing Structural Integration, in alternative medicine, a system of deep tissue massage that proponents believe releases tightened muscles, enabling the body to regain maximum functioning by realigning itself with the natural forces of gravity.

Developed by American biochemist Ida P. Rolf in the early 1950s, Rolfing structural integration, commonly known as Rolfing, is based on the principle that injury, disease, and emotional stress cause muscular tension. Muscles tighten and the surrounding tissue hardens, pulling the bones out of normal alignment. Rolfing softens the tissue, allowing the muscles to lengthen and the bones to return to their normal position. Rolfing is not designed for treatment of particular medical problems but is rather aimed at realigning the entire body structure to allow a free flow of energy, enabling the body to stay healthy and fight disease.

The primary benefit claimed for Rolfing is a greater ease of body movement and an increased energy flow. Pain relief, freedom of joint movement, and improved emotional balance may also result. Rolfing is beneficial for everyone, but it is often sought by people with persistent pain or chronic postural problems.

Rolfing consists of ten hour-long sessions, usually spaced a week or more apart, during which the Rolfer uses pressure from fingers, hands, fists, and elbows to manipulate the patient’s major muscle groups and tissue. People typically gain an inch or so in height. Benefits are long-term, but patients may need additional Rolfing sessions after a few months or a year.

Rolfers may be medical doctors, chiropractors, physical therapists, massage therapists, athletes, dancers, or people trained solely in Rolfing. All practitioners are trained and certified by the Rolf Institute of Structural Integration in Boulder, Colorado.