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Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions about Rolfing and Chiropractic Care
Q: Is Rolfing® a type of massage?
A: You may have heard that Rolfing is just “deep tissue massage,” but the goal of Rolfing is to work with the fascial system to change body structure. Of course I am working on muscles--as well as the nervous and circulatory systems--but the work of Rolfing is to bring about a more upright, balanced body. Improved posture readily follows.
Q: What is fascia?
A: The organ of form, the fascia is a contiguous system that literally holds your body together and gives it shape. Fascia enables muscles to function by allowing them to slide and glide on one another. Because of the interconnectivity of fascia, therapies that address just the spot where you hurt provide only temporary relief. That’s because the cause of the problem is frequently elsewhere. Everything in the body is connected to everything else by fascia, so, for example, releasing a fascial distortion below the knee may allow the upper spine to move back into proper alignment. As Rolfing brings back balance to the body, you begin to feel a sense of greater ease and fluidity of movement.
Q: Is Rolfing painful?
A: Many people have heard that Rolfing hurts. That’s a stereotype carried over from older-style Rolfing. My teachers were adamant that we be gentle, and I work within your comfort zone. I’m trying to facilitate--not force--change. If an area is tightly contracted, it may be sensitive and the work may feel intense. But at no time should you expect to feel more discomfort than you would experience during physical therapy or a deep massage. Pain causes you to tighten up, and that’s exactly what we don’t want to happen.
Q: What do I wear?
A: Rolfing requires me to visually analyze your posture, structural alignment and have direct, hands-on contact with your body. This is best accomplished when you wear underwear or the equivalent, such as swimming trunks or a two-piece swim suit. Another option is elastic-waist exercise shorts (not Lycra or biking shorts) worn without underwear. Regular bras are preferable to exercise bras, which are usually too restrictive to allow access to shoulders and back.
Q: How often do I need to be Rolfed?
A: The ideal is once per week; however you will still get good results if the 10 sessions are scheduled two to three weeks apart.
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© 2011 Kimbrell Chiropractic Health Center, P.A. All Rights Reserved