Rolfing® vs. Chiropractic Care vs. Massage

Rolfing vs. Chiropractic Chiropractic work is designed to be more “fix it” in nature. They work to correct imbalances in the spine by manipulation of the bones. This intervention of quick thrusts or “adjustments” adds motion to spinal joints or puts them back in to place allowing the proper function of nerves by the correct alignment. Rolfing® on the other hand addresses the tissues that are pulling those bones out of alignment, for instance fascia, tendons, ligaments and muscles. Part of Dr. Rolf’s philosophy was that the body needs balance in order to change. If the body does not have balance it will return to the previous state or the fixation will relocate in another part of the body or both. Rolfing® addresses the whole person, working with all the joints in the body, creating balance between the inside and outside, front and back, top and bottom and side to side. Rolfing vs. Massage Massage is designed to decrease muscle pain and tension, increase circulation, and produce a sense of well-being. Its goal is relaxation and generally works with the muscular system. Massage can be therapeutic but it doesn't ask the system to find new ways to organize itself. Rolfing® is a change process and simulates the physical structure to find new ways to organize, realign and move. Rolfing® is designed to be transformational. The goal of Rolfing® is to improve posture, flexibility, increase range of motion of joints, and educate clients in movement and self-awareness. It dissolves old patterns that cause harm and chronic pain. Rolfing® works with the connective tissue, which gives you the shape and support of your body. Massage can release tension in your muscles but Rolfing® addresses the source of that tension. Your muscles will only work as well as the connective tissue allows it to. And if the connective tissue is thick and rigid you cannot move efficiently nor relax properly. Conclusion In simple terms massage is a relaxation technique. Chiropractic’s goal is healing or corrective, treating the symptoms. Rolfing’s goal is integration of the whole person. Rolfing® looks to restore and improve function by looking for the source of the problem to allow lasting results.