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Frequently Asked Questions About Rolfing and More

If you’re considering Rolfing therapy, you likely have questions about the process, benefits, and potential discomfort. Our comprehensive FAQ page covers everything you need to know, including the most common inquiries such as: “What is Rolfing?”, “How does it work?”, “Is Rolfing painful?”, and more. Find answers to your questions about this powerful method for reducing pain and muscle tension, and discover if Rolfing is right for you.

General

Rolfing Therapy is a form of bodywork that involves deep tissue manipulation and movement education to improve the alignment and function of the body. It aims to release tension and chronic pain by working with the fascia, the connective tissue that surrounds muscles and organs.

Rolfing can benefit anyone who wants to improve their physical alignment and function. It is particularly useful for those with chronic pain, injuries, or limited mobility.

The goal of Rolfing is to permanently resolve posture and tension through a special form of massage. Not the muscles are treated, but the connective tissue that surrounds the muscles, known as fascia. When fascia adheres or hardens, the body’s range of motion is restricted and posture damage can occur. Rolfing is therefore a method to realign the body in gravity. It is often used in health care, with the aim of improving mobility and posture. Rolfing is also partially used for treatment of chronic pain, posture or physical changes in the form of injuries and accidents.

Rolfing Therapy is a holistic approach to bodywork that aims to improve overall structural alignment, movement, and balance in the body. While Rolfing is not specifically designed to treat medical conditions or diseases, it may help alleviate symptoms associated with a wide range of conditions. Some examples of conditions that Rolfing Therapy may be beneficial for include:

  1. Musculoskeletal pain: Rolfing can help reduce pain and discomfort associated with musculoskeletal conditions such as chronic pain, back pain, neck pain, shoulder pain, hip pain, and joint pain.

  2. Postural issues: Rolfing can address postural imbalances and help improve overall posture, which may be beneficial for individuals with postural issues such as rounded shoulders, forward head posture, or swayback.

  3. Movement restrictions: Rolfing can help improve range of motion and flexibility, making it beneficial for individuals with movement restrictions due to injuries, surgeries, or other factors.

  4. Sports injuries: Rolfing can aid in recovery from sports-related injuries, such as sprains, strains, or overuse injuries, and help prevent future injuries by addressing imbalances and improving alignment.

  5. Stress and tension-related issues: Rolfing can help release tension, stress, and anxiety held in the body, providing relaxation and stress relief.

Rolfing is typically delivered in a series of sessions known as “the 10-series,” which is a structured sequence of sessions that are designed to progressively address different areas of the body and integrate structural changes.

The 10-series is a recommended framework for Rolfing, but the actual number of sessions needed may vary from person to person. Some individuals may experience desired results within fewer sessions, while others may require additional sessions for more significant or chronic issues.

During the initial Rolfing session, the practitioner will assess your body and discuss your goals and concerns. Based on this assessment, the practitioner will recommend a personalized treatment plan.

While Rolfing Therapy is generally considered safe for most individuals, it may not be suitable for individuals with certain medical conditions, such as:

  • acute injuries
  • fractures
  • severe osteoporosis
  • certain connective tissue disorders.

Pregnant individuals should also consult with a qualified Rolfing practitioner who has experience working with pregnant clients.

Rolfing Therapy was developed by Dr. Ida P. Rolf in the mid-20th century. Dr. Rolf, a biochemist and a pioneer in the field of bodywork, developed Rolfing as a form of manual therapy aimed at improving structural alignment, posture, and movement patterns. She integrated her knowledge of anatomy, physiology, and biomechanics to create a holistic approach to bodywork that focuses on manipulating and reorganizing the fascia to optimize the body’s functioning. Over the years, Rolfing has evolved and is now practiced by qualified Rolfing practitioners worldwide, continuing Dr. Rolf’s legacy in the field of bodywork and fascial manipulation.

Dr. Ida P. Rolf (1896-1979) was an American biochemist and a pioneer in the field of bodywork. She is the founder of Rolfing Therapy, a form of manual therapy that focuses on optimizing structural alignment, posture, and movement patterns through manipulation and reorganization of the fascia. Dr. Rolf earned her Ph.D. in Biochemistry from the College of Physicians and Surgeons of Columbia University in 1920 and went on to develop her own approach to bodywork, which later became known as Rolfing. She dedicated her life to studying the human body and developing a holistic approach to bodywork that incorporates principles of anatomy, physiology, and biomechanics. Today, Dr. Ida P. Rolf is widely recognized as a pioneer in the field of bodywork and fascial manipulation, and her work continues to be practiced and further developed by qualified Rolfing practitioners worldwide.

 
 

Rolfing Therapy is unique in its approach to the human body for two fundamental reasons. Firstly, it recognizes that physical balance, poise, fluidity of movement, ease, grace, and overall well-being are dependent on a harmonious relationship with the force of gravity. Secondly, Rolfing acknowledges that the fascia, the body’s foundation and organ of structure, plays a crucial role in optimizing its functioning. By addressing these two key principles, Rolfing aims to create positive changes in a person’s physical alignment, posture, and movement patterns, ultimately promoting their overall health and well-being.

Rolfing is also commonly referred to as structural integration due to its emphasis on optimizing the structural alignment of the body. The goal of Rolfing is to create a balanced and integrated relationship between the body’s various components, including muscles, bones, fascia, and other connective tissues, in order to improve posture, movement, and overall well-being. Through manual manipulation and reorganization of the body’s structure, Rolfing aims to align and integrate the body’s components into a more balanced and harmonious state, resulting in improved physical function, flexibility, and vitality. The term “structural integration” reflects the core concept of Rolfing, which is to optimize the body’s structural alignment for enhanced health and well-being.

 

 Rolfing addresses the physical challenges of aging by utilizing manual techniques that release chronic tensions and restrictions in the body’s fascia. It also provides education on efficient movement patterns and emphasizes proper posture and alignment. These combined efforts promote better circulation, reduce wear and tear on the body, and enable individuals to maintain their vitality and well-being as they age.

The goal is an improvement in mobility between the chest and lungs at the level of the lung fascia. In addition, protective tensions and postures that arise due to the high strain during coughing should be relieved. (you might be interested in this blog)

Protective tensions and tissue changes persist in the body even after asthma has subsided. Therefore, manual treatment is sensible and possible even years later. (you might be interested in this blog)

Especially during periods of growth, supportive correction of tensions is meaningful. Rolfing aims for the greatest possible permeability of the tissue and can provide a positive balance in one’s own body perception. (you might be interested in this blog)

Fascia

Fascia are the soft tissue elements of connective tissue. They surround the whole body in the form of a tension network. A distinction can be made between three fascia layers, which serve different purposes: the superficial fascia, which lies directly under the skin, the deep fascia, which surrounds muscles and organs, and the visceral fascia, which surrounds the internal organs.

Rolfing therapists use their hands, fingers, and sometimes elbows or other tools to work with the fascia, aiming to release restrictions, tension, and adhesions within the fascial layers. This can help to restore balance, alignment, and flexibility in the body, and improve overall posture and movement patterns. Rolfing Therapy focuses on addressing the fascial system as a whole, considering the relationships between different fascial layers and their impact on the body’s structure and function. Through skilled manipulation of the fascia, Rolfing Therapy aims to bring about lasting changes in the body’s alignment, mobility, and overall well-being.

Yes, Rolfing Therapy is specifically designed to address fascial restrictions. Fascial restrictions can occur due to trauma, injury, poor posture, repetitive movements, and other factors, which can lead to pain, discomfort, and limitations in movement. Rolfing Therapy uses targeted techniques to release fascial restrictions, helping to restore mobility, flexibility, and balance in the affected areas. By addressing fascial restrictions, Rolfing Therapy aims to improve the overall function and well-being of the body.

The practitioner applies specific pressure and stretches to the fascial tissues, helping to break up adhesions and improve the mobility and pliability of the fascia. This can help to restore optimal function and alignment of the body, reduce pain and discomfort, and improve overall movement and flexibility.

It’s important to note that Rolfing Therapy is typically tailored to the individual needs of the client, and the techniques used may vary depending on the unique structural patterns and goals of the session.

It’s worth noting that fascial adhesions can be complex and multifactorial, and the exact cause may vary from person to person.

  1. Injury or trauma: Physical injuries, accidents, surgeries, or repetitive stress can cause fascial tissues to become inflamed and form adhesions as part of the body’s natural healing response.

  2. Poor posture and movement patterns: Habitual poor posture, improper movement mechanics, or compensatory patterns can result in fascial tissues becoming strained or restricted, leading to adhesions over time.

  3. Inflammation and inflammation-related conditions: Chronic inflammation or inflammation-related conditions, such as arthritis or autoimmune diseases, can impact fascial health and contribute to the formation of adhesions.

  4. Scar tissue formation: Scarring from surgeries, injuries, or other traumatic events can affect fascial tissues, resulting in adhesions as the body heals and repairs the damaged tissue.

  5. Aging and lack of mobility: As we age, fascial tissues can naturally become less pliable and more prone to adhesions. A sedentary lifestyle or lack of regular movement and stretching can also contribute to fascial adhesion.

One aim of Rolfing Therapy is to identify and address the underlying causes of fascial adhesions through targeted manual techniques and body awareness to help restore optimal fascial health and function.

Rolfing Experience

During a Rolfing Therapy session, you can expect to work with a certified Rolfer who will use their hands and sometimes forearms to apply pressure, manipulate fascia, and guide your body through movement exercises. The practitioner may focus on different areas of your body in each session, depending on your specific needs and goals. You may be asked to actively participate in the session through breathing, movement, and body awareness. The pressure applied during a session may vary from gentle to deep, and the practitioner will communicate with you to ensure your comfort level. It’s important to communicate openly with your Rolfer about any sensations or concerns you may have during the session.

 

A typical Rolfing Therapy session usually lasts about 60-90 minutes.

During a session, the Rolfing therapist uses hands, fingers, elbows and sometimes forearms to apply targeted pressure, stretching, and movement techniques to manipulate the fascia and reorganize the body’s structure. The practitioner works systematically through different areas of the body, addressing areas of tension, misalignment, or discomfort. Each session is tailored to the individual’s needs and goals, with the aim of improving physical alignment, posture, and movement patterns. The duration of the session allows the practitioner to work deeply and comprehensively with the fascia and other tissues to facilitate lasting changes in the body’s structure and function.

During a Rolfing Therapy session, it’s typically recommended to wear comfortable, loose-fitting clothing that allows for ease of movement. This allows the practitioner to assess and work with the body’s alignment and movement patterns more effectively. It’s best to choose clothing that does not restrict your range of motion and allows the practitioner to access different areas of the body without hindrance. Avoid wearing tight or constricting clothing, as it may limit the practitioner’s ability to perform the necessary techniques and may not provide the most optimal experience. However, it’s important to note that Rolfing Therapy is typically performed with the client’s comfort and modesty in mind, and the practitioner will always prioritize your privacy and comfort during the session.

 

Some Rolfing practitioners may work with clients who are fully clothed, wearing loose-fitting clothing that allows for ease of movement. Other practitioners may prefer to work with clients who are partially undressed, typically in their undergarments or shorts, to have direct access to the skin and fascial tissues.

It’s essential to communicate with your Rolfing practitioner about your comfort level and preferences regarding clothing during the session. The practitioner will always prioritize your comfort, modesty, and privacy during the session and will work with you to create a safe and comfortable environment.

 

While Rolfing Therapy involves deep manual techniques that work with the fascia and underlying connective tissues, the level of discomfort experienced during a session can vary from person to person. Sensations during a Rolfing session may range from mild discomfort to a deep pressure or stretching sensation.

It’s important to communicate openly with your Rolfing practitioner during the session and provide feedback on your comfort level. A skilled Rolfing practitioner will adjust their techniques and pressure based on your feedback to ensure that the session is within your comfort zone.

It’s worth noting that some discomfort during a Rolfing session may be a natural response as the body releases tension and tightness in the fascial tissues. However, the overall goal of Rolfing is to help clients achieve greater body alignment, improved posture, and increased ease of movement, without causing unnecessary pain.

If you have concerns about pain or discomfort during a Rolfing session, don’t hesitate to discuss them with your practitioner before the session begins. They can provide you with more information about their approach and address any questions or concerns you may have.

The effects of Rolfing Therapy can vary from person to person. Some clients may experience immediate changes in their posture, movement, and overall sense of well-being after a session, while others may feel more subtle shifts over time. It’s common to feel relaxed, lighter, and more connected to your body after a session. It’s important to communicate with your practitioner about your sensations and experiences to make the most out of your Rolfing journey.

 

Rolfing is an excellent approach for preventing the effects of aging. Rolfing focuses on enhancing flexibility, maintaining proper posture, and improving overall well-being. Through manual treatment and movement education, Rolfing helps release chronic tensions, optimize alignment, and empower individuals to age gracefully while enjoying a pain-free and vibrant life.

Comparison

Rolfing Therapy and massage therapy differ in their approach, goals, and techniques. While massage therapy typically focuses on muscles, Rolfing Therapy works with the fascia, the connective tissue that surrounds and supports muscles, organs, and bones. Rolfing Therapy aims to reorganize and realign the fascia to optimize body structure and function.

Another key difference is that Rolfing Therapy is typically done in a series of sessions, with each session building upon the previous one to create a structural integration process, whereas massage therapy is often more focused on relaxation and immediate relief.

Yes, Rolfing therapy can often be combined with other bodywork techniques, depending on the needs and goals of the individual. Rolfing practitioners may combine Rolfing sessions with other methods such as yoga, Pilates, chiropractic or physical therapy to complement the overall treatment plan. It is important to communicate openly with your Rolfing practitioner to ensure a coordinated and effective approach to your health goals.

Chiropractic care primarily focuses on the spine and nervous system, with the goal of addressing misalignments and improving joint function. Rolfing Therapy, on the other hand, focuses on the fascia, or the connective tissue in the body, and aims to improve overall structural alignment and balance through deep tissue manipulation and movement education.

Rolfing Therapy is typically more holistic and integrative, addressing the body as a whole and incorporating movement and postural education into the sessions. Chiropractic care, on the other hand, may involve more specific adjustments to the spine and joints. Both modalities can be effective in addressing different conditions and goals, and may be used independently or in combination depending on the individual’s needs and preferences. It’s important to consult with qualified practitioners of each modality to determine the best approach for your specific health concerns.

Rolfing Therapy focuses specifically on the fascia, or the connective tissue in the body, with the goal of improving overall structural alignment and balance. Rolfing practitioners use deep tissue manipulation and movement education to release tension and restrictions in the fascia, aiming to create long-lasting changes in the body’s posture and movement patterns.

In contrast, traditional massage techniques generally focus on relaxation, stress reduction, and muscle tension relief, with less emphasis on structural alignment and movement education. Massage techniques may vary in pressure, intensity, and style, depending on the therapist’s approach and the client’s preferences. Massage sessions may also be shorter in duration compared to Rolfing Therapy sessions

Rolfing Therapy is typically more holistic and integrative, addressing the body as a whole and incorporating movement and postural education into the sessions. Chiropractic care, on the other hand, may involve more specific adjustments to the spine and joints. Both modalities can be effective in addressing different conditions and goals, and may be used independently or in combination depending on the individual’s needs and preferences. It’s important to consult with qualified practitioners of each modality to determine the best approach for your specific health concerns.

While Rolfing Therapy and Fascia Therapy share similarities in their focus on the fascia, they are not exactly the same. Rolfing Therapy is a specific form of bodywork that was developed by Dr. Ida P. Rolf, and it involves a systematic approach to aligning and integrating the body’s structure through manual manipulation of the fascia and other tissues. Fascia Therapy, on the other hand, is a more general term that can encompass various therapeutic approaches that focus on addressing fascial restrictions and imbalances in the body. Rolfing Therapy is one specific modality of fascia-focused therapy, but not all fascia-focused therapies are Rolfing Therapy. It’s always best to consult with a qualified practitioner to understand the specific nuances of different bodywork modalities, including Rolfing Therapy and Fascia Therapy, and how they may differ in their techniques, philosophy, and approach.

 
 
 
 
 

Symptoms vary widely depending on the location, severity, and individual circumstances. Some general symptoms that may be associated with fascial adhesions are:

  1. Pain or discomfort: Fascial adhesions can cause localized pain or discomfort, which may be sharp, dull, achy, or throbbing in nature.

  2. Restricted range of motion: Fascial adhesions can limit the normal range of motion of joints or muscles, leading to stiffness, tightness, or reduced flexibility.

  3. Sensations of pulling or tension: Fascial adhesions can create a sensation of pulling or tension in the affected area or adjacent areas, which may be perceived as stiffness, heaviness, or restriction in movement.

  4. Numbness or tingling: Fascial adhesions can compress nerves or blood vessels, leading to sensations of numbness, tingling, or pins and needles in the affected area.

  5. Changes in posture or alignment: Fascial adhesions can alter the alignment or posture of the body, leading to imbalances, compensations, or asymmetry in movement and posture.

  6. Muscle imbalances: Fascial adhesions can disrupt the normal coordination and function of muscles, leading to imbalances in muscle tone or strength.

  7. Reduced athletic performance: Fascial adhesions can impair athletic performance by limiting range of motion, reducing flexibility, or causing discomfort during physical activities.

Therapy and Session

There are a few things you can do to prepare for a Rolfing Therapy session:

  1. Wear comfortable clothing: Choose loose, comfortable clothing that allows for ease of movement. Avoid clothing that is restrictive or constricting.

  2. Hydrate: Drink water before your session to stay well-hydrated, as Rolfing Therapy can involve deep tissue manipulation that may release toxins and metabolic waste from the tissues.

  3. Communicate with your practitioner: Before your session, communicate any specific concerns, goals, or questions you may have with your Rolfing practitioner. This can help them tailor the session to your individual needs and ensure a more effective and comfortable experience.

  4. Arrive well-rested: Getting adequate rest the night before your session can help you relax and be more receptive to the work during the session.

  5. Avoid heavy meals: Try to avoid heavy meals or large amounts of food immediately before your session, as a full stomach may interfere with your comfort during the session.

  6. Arrive on time: Arrive for your session on time to ensure that you have enough time to complete any necessary paperwork or assessments and to allow for a relaxed and unhurried experience.

Remember to follow any specific instructions or recommendations provided by your Rolfing practitioner, and feel free to ask any questions or seek clarifications as needed. Being prepared and relaxed can help you make the most of your Rolfing Therapy session.

Rolfing therapists often provide homework or self-care exercises for patients to do between sessions to support the development of structural integration. These exercises are typically tailored to the individual’s specific needs and goals identified during the Rolfing sessions. Following the the homework is a key enabler to maximize the benefit of Rolfing.

Here are some reasons why homework or self-care exercises may be recommended:

  1. Reinforce the changes achieved during sessions: Rolfing therapy aims to create positive changes in the body’s structure and movement patterns. Homework or self-care exercises can help reinforce these changes and support the body in integrating them into everyday movement and posture.

  2. Enhance body awareness: Homework or self-care exercises can help patients develop greater body awareness, which can improve their ability to sense and make adjustments in their body alignment, movement, and posture. This increased body awareness can empower patients to actively participate in their own healing process and maintain the progress made during Rolfing sessions.

  3. Facilitate self-healing: Rolfing therapy is designed to stimulate the body’s natural healing mechanisms. Homework or self-care exercises can help patients continue to engage their body’s self-healing abilities between sessions, facilitating the healing process and promoting lasting change.

  4. Provide tools for self-care: Homework or self-care exercises can provide patients with practical tools and techniques they can use on their own to manage pain, improve mobility, and optimize their body’s function. These exercises can empower patients to take an active role in their own health and well-being beyond the Rolfing sessions.

  5. Support long-term results: Rolfing therapy is typically conducted in a series of sessions, and the benefits can continue to unfold after the sessions are completed. Homework or self-care exercises can help patients maintain and build upon the progress made during the Rolfing sessions, supporting long-term results and a sustainable improvement in the body’s structure and function.

  • The frequency of Rolfing Therapy sessions can vary depending on individual needs and goals.
  • Typically, a series of 10 sessions is recommended, with sessions initially scheduled closer together (e.g., weekly or bi-weekly) and then spaced further apart (e.g., every 2-3 weeks) as progress is made.
  • The exact scheduling and number of sessions may be determined in consultation with a Rolfing therapist, taking into account factors such as health status, budget, and availability.

Follow-up sessions may be recommended by a Rolfing therapist after completing a treatment plan.

These sessions can help to maintain the progress achieved during the initial series of sessions and further support the body’s integration and alignment. The need for follow-up sessions can vary depending on individual circumstances and goals, and can be discussed with the Rolfing therapist to determine the best approach for ongoing care. 

In Switzerland a typical Rolfing session costs between 160 – 190 CHF. However it is worth to notice that some Rolfing therapists have different duration of sessions which can vary between 45 – 90 min. 

If the Rolfing therapist is approved in Switzerland by EMR (Erfahrungs Medizinisches Register) many health insurances in do cover the cost. However it is worth to notice that the coverage for most insurances may be capped.

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