[AlpineRose]

Has anyone had experience with this form of body work? Why did you try it? Did it help with your alignment and/or movement? How long did the effects last? I've heard rolfing is physically uncomfortable. If you found it so, were the results worth it?

[Randito]

If Oprah's against it, I must be for it. I know a few folks that have been rolfed. One person felt like it added scar tissue to their rib cage and decreased their flexibility. Another ended up divorcing their wife soon after, though they had never expressed unhappiness with her previously. Related ? Who knows?

[Lost Arbor]

I had good benefit from Hellerwork, which utilizes the same techniques as rolfing but isn't as restrictive about what gets done at each session. I got months of relief from it, and wish I could afford regular sessions.

[forest gnome]

so this insnt about throwing up??? I did that last hike...

[AlpineRose]

[Traildad]

No experience to add here but I appreciate the question as I have wondered about this technique for some time.

[tigermn]

Hey "rolfing" was mentioned in an episode of the Rockford Files. Quickie Nirvana (1977). I guess it ain't new...

[DIYSteve]

Rolfing aka "structural integration" is a brand name for a method of myofascial release that was the rage in the U.S. in the 1970s. The book and movie Semi-Tough has some funny scenes about it. I know several people, including a couple of ultrarunners, who claim to have greatly benefitted from rolfing or other myofascial release treatments.

[boot up]

Cupping is the new thing for myofacial release. Expect significant but painfree bruising from it, but it will loosen things up nicely.

[Hiker Chick]

I had extensive work (it was similar to Rolfing, but doesn't just have a singular focus on one specific part of the body) that spanned over a year. I still go every other week - paired with accupuncture. I have progressed from being unable to walk without a significant limp and excruciating pain 24/7, to being back to running/hiking. I can also now wear high heels again too!! It is very, very painful, and I have a high pain tolerance. There were a few times I had to completely tap out and I cried a couple of sessions. I sported some bruising, especially when my IT bands and psoas were worked on. Sometimes the day after a treatment I had increased pain, but it would gradually subside and I would feel incrementally better as the days progressed. Hope that helps.

[coldrain108]

I had some Rolfing done as treatment for an injury - unfortunately the treatment caused me a rib injury that is still a re-occurring problem 20 years later - the original injury has long since passed. I liked that the "therapist" blamed it on me for holding in too much of the "energy". That was the end of any "new age" snake oil for me, thank you. A modern take on Faith Healing...arrogant self proclaimed communicators with the "creator" and all...

[Schenk]

Rolfing is so 1970s

[iron]

there are a dozen similar techniques for this type of treatment. any qualified PT will be able to guide one to a reasonable choice in the matter. PM me for recommendations.

[mehitabel]

I had 10 rolfing sessions a couple of years ago here. it was often intense but not painful. I think the techniques have evolved into something gentler as causing pain was found to be counterproductive. I found the suggestions I got each week on what to focus on interesting, and still reflect on them. It was very interesting how certain nagging physical problems somehow worked themselves out, and my posture improved. She also teaches yoga.

[jim_PDX]

I had tremendous success with rolfing. I had chronic knee and shoulder pain from years of injuries from physical activity and sports. I went for ten sessions spread out over one year with John Grosssart ( http://www.northstarintegration.com ) in Portland, OR. I have been pain free since the treatments (over three years ago). My experience was not unduly painful but sometimes a little intense. I don’t remember any session where I felt worse after the session than before I started.