Structural Integration

Structural Integration is a system of working with a human which aims to align the human body in the gravitational field. The claimed benefit is that the increased use of balance at finer levels of the neuro-fascial-musculo-skeletal system allows for increased general well-being and physical adaptability and resilience as well as reduced pain from biomechanically caused pain. Structural Integration practitioners are trained in the application of functional biomechanical and kinesiological analysis and in effective ways of changing a client's structure. Often connective tissue, in the form of fascia, is manipulated to allow body segments to shift to a more balanced position. Re-education of the clients movement patterns and other modalities are commonly used to achieve or support the goal of improved alignment.

History
First developed as a separate field by Dr.Ida P. Rolf, Structural Integration, from the 1930s, evolved out of a number of sources including osteopathy, (including cranial osteopathy), yoga, Alexander Technique, and Feldenkrais. By the 1950s Dr Rolf was teaching Postural Release. In the 1960s this work was named Structural Integration and then "Rolfing". Other schools teaching Structural Integration have formed from the 1960s onward. Structural Integration is now taught by a number of individual schools.(see below) Techniques originally developed in Structural Integration are now found in deep tissue massage, myo-fascial massage and soft tissue work and other forms of bodywork, massage and physical therapy. In an effort to preserve the essential elements of Structural Integration in its teaching and practice, practitioners from a variety of schools formed the International Association of Structural Integrators in 2002.

Scientific research and criticism
Research by Valerie Hunt, Jim Oschman, and Silverman confirm that Structural Integration techniques do produce measurable biochemical and physiological changes. The significance of these changes remains open to debate. Perception of outcome of Structural Integration by clients is often in line with the claimed benefits but critics claim these changes are due to the placebo effect.