What Is Structural Integration?

Dr. Ida P. Rolf

Structural Integration is a method of deep manipulation of the connective tissues of the body developed by Dr. Ida P Rolf. Her intention was to create a system of postural restructuring and movement re-patterning in order to promote ease and balance in posture, with a corresponding effect on the mind. Like all other material structures, the human body submits to the basic laws of physics. When we are out of balance and alignment, gravity drags us down, just as it pulls down a building that has lost its’ architectural integrity.

Relief from limitations in movement, pain, & discomfort

Due to physical and emotional trauma, repetitive movements, and habits of standing, sitting, moving, our bodies develop dysfunctional characteristic patterns of strain. Rotations in bones, shortness or tightness in tissues and related muscles, and asymmetries within the body as a whole create conflicting tensional forces. These may ultimately lead to sub-optimal choices in movement. Over time, with repetition, these patterns can worsen, leading to further limitations in movement and in living. This dynamic is among the root causes of pain, discomfort and other types of dysfunction including emotional and behavioral issues.

Resolving conflicts within the body

Structural Integration is a highly effective way of working with connective tissue and muscles to resolve conflicts within the body, which are preventing easier, more correct ways of moving and being. When body support is lacking, tissues and their related muscles compensate by shoring up specific areas in an effort to deal with these vulnerabilities. The body then becomes a negotiation of compensations, and conflicting tensional strains which we experience as tightness, lack of flexibility, poor balance, pain, anxiety, depression, etc…

This natural response to imbalance and instability is also the body’s attempt to support itself against the ever-present forces of gravity. Movement is an event in which every segment of the body works in relationship to every other segment. If a body is overly stiff in certain places, and flaccid in others, these relationships will be limited, and the body will not be able to work as a unit. To the degree that this is the case, the person will be limited in her ability to adapt to her environment.

Trained, personalized assessment and treatments

Our Structural Integration Practitioner is highly trained to see and address the complex ways in which the body is relating to itself and to its’ environment. The better these relationships are, the better the body and the whole person will function. Through hands-on manipulation and movement re-education, Structural Integration® is an effective way to change deep-set patterns of posture and movement.

Effective approach to great health and performance

Structural Integration is an effective approach to address the after-effects of accidents and injuries, for chronic neck, back and joint pain, for poor posture, tension and anxiety. Structural Integration can also be a valuable tool for deepening your practice of yoga, martial arts, as well as for improving athletic performance.