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Description of a Session
Prior to a first Structural Integration session, a complete questionnaire is filled out and photographs are taken which can be used to compare progress throughout the series of sessions. You may be asked to stand, walk or make other movements to observe posture before and after. All work is done on a massage table with the participant in undergarments. The Rolfer uses his or her hands to explore, loosen and extend the fascial sheaths that surround muscles, allowing the parts of the body to become more organized in relation to each other, and reducing the strain against gravity. The patient is an active participant in this re-education process, often being asked to breathe into the area being worked on and to make small movement adjustments.
Each session follows a specified sequence and concentrates on a specific area with specified goals. There are three units of sections: The initial three sessions are called the sleeve sessions where the surface layers of connective tissue are loosened and balanced. Working on the outer layers first will allow the stress from underlying layers to release through them during subsequent sessions. These are followed by the core sessions. The core is seen as the deep center of our body. It is here that the line which is the central focus of all Rolf work comes into play. This line supports the core. The last three hours are integrative hours where prior sessions are tied together through work on the middle layers of connective tissue.
Course of Treatment
The basic Rolf Method for Structural Integration consists of what is called the recipe, a series of ten sessions which build upon each other, each lasting 60-90 minutes. Intervals of about one week should pass between sessions, allowing the body to integrate what it has learned. After these sessions, it is recommended that a period of 6-12 months be allowed to pass before another series or the Post Ten/Advanced Series is scheduled. Tune-up sessions may also be scheduled about every six months, where the Rolfer reworks the connective tissue to restore its pliability, supporting the bodys healthy alignment and free range of motion. In addition patients can also take Rolfing® Movement Integration classes where they are taught to develop increased awareness of how they move and how to correct any alignment issues. These sessions are also done in a series, starting with the breath and moving on to movement patterns throughout the body.
Side Effects
During sessions the client may experience various sensations, from warmth to momentary discomfort. Rolfing® is very patient-specific and the client is encouraged to work with their practitioner to refine technique and resolve any issues of discomfort. No serious side effects of the treatment are known when the technique is done by a certified practitioner to those qualifying to receive such treatment (see Safety issues).
Safety Issues
People are often concerned that Rolfing® is a painful process because it involves deep tissue work. This is largely due to experiences in the early years of its development. Over the ensuing years, newer techniques have been developed resulting in decreased discomfort. However, anyone who does not like being touched or has a sensitivity to pressure being applied to the body might want to consider other options. It is also not recommended for those with chronic inflammation such as arthritis because it could worsen the condition. Those with any serious medical condition should consult their health care provider first.
Other Modalities that Work Well with this Approach
Rolfing generally works well with other complementary and standard medical therapies, and can enhance any work being done to improve postural alignment, ease of movement and the promotion of relaxation and stress reduction. As previously mentioned, however, it is not recommended for people with chronic inflammatory conditions such as arthritis and it is advisable to check with your health care practitioner before beginning a course of treatment.
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Content last modified on Sep 4, 2003
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