Rolfing Structural Integration offers a range of benefits for individuals from various backgrounds and conditions. Here are some groups who have reported positive feedback:
- People in Pain
Many of my clients originally come to Rolfing because they are experiencing pain which is affecting their quality of life.
Rolfing is effective for both acute and chronic musculoskeletal pain. In cases of acute pain a Rolfing practitioner will not manipulate the injury (unless the touch is very light), but will reorganise the surrounding myofascia, which takes the pressure off the sensitive area.
The effect of the Rolfing Series is to help distribute weight and forces more evenly throughout the body, reducing stress on specific muscles and joints that may be causing chronic pain. The quality of touch characteristic of Rolfing, ranging from slow deep strokes to very light touch, is highly effective at easing long-held muscular tension.
As the Rolfing Series progresses the Rolfing practitioner can identify and address the underlying causes of musculoskeletal pain by analysing movement patterns, body imbalances, and other factors contributing to the chronic pain condition. As well as receiving a comprehensive ‘overhaul’ of the the body’s myofascial system, Rolfing clients tend to become more aware of their body and less likely to continue habits which can contribute to chronic pain, such as hiking their shoulders and holding their head forward while at the computer.
Many people have experienced a reduction in pain from TMJ dysfunction and migraines/headaches after receiving Rolfing.
2. Individuals of all Ages
Rolfing is suitable for people of all ages, including children, teenagers, adults in their twenties to fifties, and even seniors in their seventies and eighties. For children Rolfing is not only good for correcting musculoskeletal aberrations, but also sets them up for better movement habits and posture as they grow and mature. It is noticeable with many children that their confidence and self esteem improve too when they do the Rolfing Series. It is especially gratifying when parents give feedback about how the Rolfing Series has helped their child:
“Rolfing has also been very important for my son, who Alan worked with during my son’s early teenage years (age 12 to 16). Alan’s work with my son was very significant; helping to balance his body, straighten his spine, and enhance his mood and self-confidence.
Alan worked with my son at a critical phase of his growth and development, and through excellent technique, conversation, and lots of jokes, was an extremely positive influence.” (Katharine)
“His shoulder blades are flatter, his shoulders straight, his chest fuller and his “chicken” neck more aligned. His gait has also improved and he has become more body-aware. He looks stronger, more robust and better balanced, more comfortable in his body. As an added bonus his confidence and self esteem have been noticeably boosted – he looks me in the eye more.” (Gine, mother of Joey)
For elderly citizens Rolfing can literally give a new lease of life. The wife of 91-year old Ernest relates:
“By the second session he had cut back on his oxygen utilisation pill. A wound on his head seemed to heal faster than previous such wounds. But most important to me, the bounce returned to his step and his twinkling eyes sparkled even brighter.” (Note 1)
3. Pregnant Women
Pregnant women in their last trimester may find benefit from Rolfing for several reasons, although it is crucial to note that any form of bodywork during pregnancy should be done with the guidance and approval of a qualified prenatal care provider. Rolfing can release muscular tension and knots that commonly occur during pregnancy as a result of the growing size of the baby, especially in areas such as the lower back, hips and shoulders. Stress reduction and better sleep are other possible benefits. Here is what one mother said about her treatment:
“I saw Alan’s ad in the local newspapers and after seeing the videos on his website I decided to do one session in a hope that he would help me with the back pain I suffered for years. I didn’t know anything about Rolfing before I went to see him. He managed to get rid of my pain and suggested I do a set of sessions in order to balance my body, make it symmetrical again. Little did I know that with those sessions I will stop having pain in the foot (doctors told me there is nothing they can do about it), pain in my back and got my nice posture back again. I continued going through my pregnancy and it helped me tremendously especially during the last trimester.” (Lada)
3. Those Seeking Improved Posture
Many clients come to Rolfing because they recognize the potential for improved posture as a preventive measure against potential problems arising from existing postural challenges. Rolfing generally improves balance while sitting, standing, and walking, increases overall body mobility, attains length in the spine for an upright feel, enhances dynamic range of motion in the feet, achieves three-dimensional ease in breathing, and cultivates greater body mindfulness.
4. Athletes, Movement-Related Activities Enthusiasts and Performers
Many of my clients are actively engaged in movement-related activities such as yoga, dance, or sports such as tennis, cycling, tai chi or running. Musicians can also benefit from Rolfing because of improved posture and alignment, release of tension, optimised breathing and alleviation and prevention of overuse injuries.
Professional athletes who have used Rolfing include Olympic track athlete Edwin Moses, former tennis champion, Ivan Lendl, Olympic high jumpers Amy Acuff and Erin Aldrich, figure skaters Michelle Kwan and Elvis Stojko.
Former US modern pentathlon competitor Sharon Sander says the following:
“I recommend Rolfing for any athlete who has ever had trouble with injuries or doesn’t feel like they are reaching their potential.” (Note 2)
Sarah Will, who won a skiing gold medal in the 1998 Paralympic Games, says:
“Rolfing increased my performance time 100%. It eliminated my body pain, relaxed my muscles at the starting gate, my concentration and motivation increased, giving me the winning edge. It loosened my lower back, shifting strength into my upper back where I need it, and increased my starting time. Seeing these results, and knowing I was in the best shape possible, my confidence rose. I think every sport should include a team Rolfer in their training program.” (Note 2)
Amy Acuff, who was involved in the nail-biting Olympic High Jump Final on Aug 28, 2004, says the following:
“As an Olympic high jumper, my motor skills, range of motion and power through that range of motion are critical. When I take off I have to be in position, and more important, I have to be powerful through the launch. I use Rolfing to increase my performance. It freed up a lot of space in my movement, increased my range of motion and gave me more efficient muscle control.” (Note 3)
5. People with Repetitive Strain Injury (RSI)
Repetitive Strain Injury (RSI) is a term used to describe a range of conditions that result from overuse or repetitive use of a particular part of the body, or prolonged periods of awkward positioning. RSI can affect muscles, tendons, ligaments, and other soft tissues and commonly occurs in the hands, wrists, arms, shoulders, neck, and back. People who engage in tasks such as typing, using a computer mouse or playing musical instruments, may be at risk for developing RSI.
Common types of Repetitive Strain Injuries include carpal tunnel syndrome, tennis elbow (lateral epicondylitis), golfer’s elbow (medial epicondylitis), and tendinitis. Symptoms can include pain, stiffness, numbness, tingling, weakness, and swelling in the affected area.
RSI can be complex to treat but I and other Rolfers have some success in alleviating this condition. Amongst several of my clients with RSI who have benefited from Rolfing, Bettina says the following:
“If you have got an issue with RSI, I can highly recommend Rolfing in general and Alan Richardson in particular. Having tried many other treatments, I came across Rolfing in 2006 and found it was the only thing that kept my symptoms at bay and enabled me to continue to hold down an office job.”
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Famous concert pianist Leon Fleisher lost the ability to play two-handed piano because of severe RSI, and focal dystonia, a neurological movement disorder which was causing involuntary and sustained muscle contractions in his right arm. After thirty years of trying many treatments Fleisher received Rolfing treatment form Tessy Brungardt (my Basic and Advanced Rolfing teacher). After a few weeks working with Brungardt, Fleisher was able to perform in a two-handed concert with the Cleveland Orchestra. Brungardt was interviewed in the 2007 Academy Award-nominated short film “Two Hands: The Leon Fleisher Story” directed by Nathaniel Kahn.
6. People with Scoliosis
Scoliosis is a condition characterized by an abnormal curvature of the spine. Instead of a straight alignment, the spine may develop a sideways curvature, forming an “S” or “C” shape. This curvature can occur in various parts of the spine, and its severity can vary from mild to severe. Idiopathic Scoliosis the most common type, and its cause is unknown. It often develops during adolescence and may progress during growth spurts.
In my practice I have helped many people with scoliosis. The degree of improvement varies with each individual, and in some cases the reduction in the curvature is significant. Here are comments by my clients;
“After the first session my daughter immediately felt a physical release and was keen to continue. After around session 5/6 there was clear visual change in the angle of her shoulder blade and a positive change in the spinal curve but the real evidence was our hospital checkup where they re-measured her cobb angle to be 31 degrees (from an original 37 degrees). This significant reduction in curvature was way beyond our hopes and expectation. We have continued to see Alan and my daughter’s comfort has improved dramatically over the course. Outstanding results for her and one very happy mum!!” — Mother of Bea, 16
Being a Scoliosis client it has helped me develop good posture, a slightly reduced curve and with going to the Gym regularly + Rolfing. It has been a great combination for me. Thanks so much Alan, you have had a huge positive impact on my life and habits. — Kavi, 27 year-old male
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7. People interested in Personal Growth
The Rolfing Series is a process that leads not only to physical improvements, but can also confer other benefits which help in a person’s life. Personal growth is a subjective and multifaceted process, and individual responses to Rolfing can vary. Nevertheless some of my clients have told me that they deal with difficult situations more effectively because their personal boundaries become better defined. As she approached the end of the Rolfing Series, one client told me that she was able to stand up to the office bully for the first time.
Many clients relate that they become better able to deal with stress. The greater somatic awareness fostered by Rolfing can in itself become a kind of mindfulness practice, especially when supplemented with Rolfing Movement, which encourages conscious and intentional movement which can lead to a more present and purposeful approach to life.
Both Jonathan and Mel were kind enough to provide detailed and eloquent accounts of their Rolfing Series. Here is what they had to say:
“I feel calmer than before. I have a stressful job and, while Rolfing does not solve the day-to-day issues, it does allow me to be in a more relaxed body and mind. This happy combination can sort out the challenges more easily.” (Tim)
“Can’t believe it’s been three months since I started – the time has gone so fast. Looking back over that time, I’m aware that life has seemed easier over that period. Stressful things that happen in daily life (like being stuck on a delayed train for 3 hours) just haven’t got to me as much as usual. It just seems as though it’s easier to let go of negative emotions, like toxic anger – a mirror, emotionally, of the physical tension that has been let go.
I’ve noticed that I’ve laughed a lot more over the last few months… I’ve got more energy too. Coincidence? Maybe, but more likely down to the Rolfing as the difference is quite marked and it has been like this for some time now.” (Mel)
Full testimonials can been seen here
Endnotes
- Anson, Briah, Rolfing: Stories of Personal Empowerment. Kansas City, Heartland Personal Growth Press, 1991, p.119.
- Rolfing endorsements from athletes, https://larsonwellbeing.com/rolfing-endorsements-from-athletes/ (accessed 25/1/25)
- Rolfing SI for sports performance, https://www.rolfing-london.co.uk/rolfing-sport/ (accessed 23/1/25)