FAQ About Rolfing® Structural Integration


Before diving into answering the most frequently asked questions I receive about Rolfing® SI I would like to share this video with you of a presentation my colleague Robyn Martin of Rolfing Orlando did for PechaKucha. It’s a great introduction to Rolfing SI and a fun video to watch.


What is Rolfing SI?

Rolfing SI is an advanced form of hands on therapy that specializes in improving posture and relieving chronic pain.

Over the years we accumulate injuries and experiences that shape us, physically and psychologically. Rolfing attempts to unbind those historical events that obstruct normal function in the body.

Using our hands, Certified Rolfers™ apply direct contact to the connective tissues of the body in order to reshape the body’s natural alignment. Our goals are to improve posture and movement.

Simply put, Rolfing alleviates tension and pain by addressing the imbalances in your body.

How is it performed?

Through a series of sessions Rolfers work to reset the body’s natural alignment, eliminating the root causes of chronic tension and pain. We do this by reconstructing the connective tissues in your body.

Certified Rolfers assist clients in becoming aware of their habitual patterns and how to correct the most harmful habits. This creates a starting point for new posture and for new movement possibilities in the body.

How is Rolfing different from other therapies?

Rolfing SI deals with the whole body, not only specific parts, and it does so in a harmonious way. Rolfing can fix ailments and reconditions the body in a way that will have long lasting results.

This is why for the full effect of Rolfing SI we advocate a series of 10 sessions.

After the 10 sessions there should be regular maintenance sessions to ensure you do not go back to your old posture or bad habits.

Why would someone come and get Rolfing sessions?

Because Rolfing provides lasting results in changing the way you feel and move.

Because you have exhausted all other efforts in dealing with your alignment and chronic pain issues.

Because people want to live more comfortably in their bodies, with more energy and self-confidence.

What causes imbalances in the body?

  • Congenital factors (short/long leg, small hemipelvis, short upper extremity, fascial, cranial and other distortions)
  • Overuse, misuse and abuse (and disuse) factors (such as injury or inappropriate patterns of use involved in work, sport or regular activities)
  • Postural stresses
  • Reflexive factors (facilitated spinal regions)
  • Chronic negative emotional states (anxiety, repressed anger, etc.)
  • Nutritional deficits
  • Toxic accumulations
  • Infection
  • Endocrine (hormonal) imbalances

It is the first five of these causes that Rolfing SI is most effective at addressing.

Who is this for? Who gets Rolfing?

Almost everyone. Anyone who is dealing with the negative effects of bad posture and old injuries.

Why isn’t Rolfing more well-known?

We are! – to the people who have received Rolfing.

There are not many Certified Rolfers around the world. We are in small numbers. We currently have just over 1900 practitioners working in 50 countries.

To become a Certified Rolfer requires a rigorous, intensive training in accordance with standards and certification of The Rolf Institute® of Structural Integration.

There is only on Rolf Institute in the United States, located in Boulder, Colorado.

Why does Rolfing have a reputation of being painful?

Years ago, Rolfing used to be more heavy-handed to match the cultural milieu of the times. Since then, the faculty of The Rolf Institute have developed new and effective techniques that have refined our touch, making it more effective and less painful in reaching our goals.

Is there evidence to prove Rolfing works?

YES! There is a growing amount of mainstream scientific research being conducted on the effectiveness of Rolfing SI. But more importantly, the evidence is provided by hundreds of thousands of people that live a better life thanks to the benefits of Rolfing.

The American Physical Therapy Association showed “Rolfing speeds recovery of damaged tissue.”

The Journal of Orthopedic and Sports Physical Therapy stated, “Rolfing provides sustained pain relief with lower back problems.”

Is Rolfing permanent?

Yes. And the client is left with new awareness to continue those changes. Some require regular maintenance sessions after the initial ten sessions.

Does health care insurance cover Rolfing?

A few providers, depending on the state you reside in, have reimbursed for Rolfing. Most flexible spending plans WILL reimburse you.

If you view Rolfing as a necessary investment you make in yourself, then reimbursement becomes secondary. Don’t you also practice regular maintenance with your automobile?

How much does it cost?

$100-$200 per session, depending on the location and the practitioner’s experience. But really, what is the value to you? The results of Rolfing are measurable and immediate. This is invaluable.

Do you have any other questions about Rolfing® SI you’d like me to answer?  If so, then please ask in the comment section below.


  1. Frank DuFault says:

    I am 70 but in fairly good physical shape. Approximately 2.5 years ago I fell out of a chair that broke while I was sitting in it. I was riding my bike 20-30 miles on weekends and 10-12 miles three times on weekdays. I have not been right since. I have no real joints problems but muscle issues that effect my joints. I am in a cycle of OK for a few weeks and then my muscles start to get sore again. I really feel that my alignment is off. I get a lot of snapping and cracking in my joints, especially my knees, ankles and lower back. My muscle tone compared to two years ago is poor.

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