Rolfing is a mode of treatment which physically manipulates the body creating a postural release which aims to loosen up and help to realign the body. It is also known as ‘structural integration’ and described as a very intense and deep massage.

Begun in the 1930’s, rolfing is named after the inventor Dr Ida Rolf. She was a biochemist, who, as result of family illness studied the effects a bad posture had on the individual.

Dr. Rolf believed that the angle of the pelvis is the cornerstone to integrating the body’s weight, and ‘standing pelvic tilt’ and that with skilful manipulation she could lengthen the shortened tissues in the body.

Poor posture is one of the ways energy can become trapped, affecting our emotional and physical well-being. Rolfers believe we are in a constant battle with the effects of gravity and that combined with life’s stresses and strains, the body is becomes tired sooner and is not using its energy efficiently.

When we suffer from stress, our breathing becomes shallower and we may tighten the muscles of the neck, back and shoulders. Chronic long-term tension leads to connecting fibres (fascia) causing a shortening of the muscles.

It is often used by dancers, sportspeople and artists, to help enhance their overall performance.

Rolfing is designed to lengthen and release the connecting fibres in places where stress to the muscles has become apparent. By improving the blood flow and eliminating the energy lost through muscle strain the person may not only stand straighter but, the body is more positively re-aligned with the forces of gravity and not working against it.

It is generally used to help musculo-skeletal problems, such as bad backs, constipation, period pains, anxiety and stress.

Treatment tends to consist of ten weekly one-hour sessions. Prior to this a case history is taken and often a photograph at the start of treatment is useful.

The patient will lie on a massage couch, whilst the practitioner applies pressure with his hands and even elbows to help smooth out the connective tissues in the body. The different sessions focus on different parts of the body.

In 1988, research into Rolfing was carried out on 32 men who had a slightly forward tilting pelvis. Following the Rolfing they showed an increase in the response of the parasympathetic nervous system and an improvement in the angle of their pelvic tilt.

Sometimes it may be quite painful, however, Rolfers say it is no more painful than a deep massage. People who have experienced severe emotional trauma should approach Rolfing with caution, as should those people who bruise easily.