Structural Integration (Rolfing)
Structural integration (SI) is a direct form of myofascial release developed by Ida Rolf, a pioneer of modern bodywork, and further developed by therapists such as Tom Myers. Unlike indirect myofascial work, the therapist will decide the direction the connective tissue (fascia) needs to be lengthened/moved by observing the clients posture (body reading). They will then work, without oil, very slowly in this direction using their palms, knuckles or forearm. The therapist may also move the client (or ask them to move) in specific ways to assist the technique being used. Rolfing is primarily used to correct structural/postural problems (e.g. lordosis, Dowager’s hump, kyphosis, scoliosis, forward head posture). It may also be use to treat musculoskeletal injury, facet/disc problems and a tortioned pelvis by affecting the strong fascial tissue sheets under the skin, covering muscles and over bony structures. SI is also used to treat pain conditions when the condition is partly caused by poor posture, structural problems or muscle imbalances.
Rolfing is important for the effective correction of postural problems, as the person may not physically be able to correct their posture. This is because, over time, their strong fascial tissue has tightened ‘holding’ them in their poor posture state. If they try to correct their posture the fascia will physically pull them back into the poor posture state, until the fascia is lengthened in the correct areas to allow lasting postural correction. Massage and stretching alone cannot do this; it requires rolfing/myofascial work on the shortened areas of fascia together with strengthening of the long and weak opposing muscles (antagonists). A course of 10 Rolfing sessions is usually needed to effectively address long term postural problems.
