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Rolfing® and Myofascial Release: What’s the Difference?

Writer's picture: James TremblayJames Tremblay

Updated: 5 days ago

When it comes to bodywork, terms like Rolfing Structural Integration and myofascial release often come up. Both approaches focus on fascia—the connective tissue that surrounds and supports muscles, nerves, and organs—but they have distinct philosophies and applications.


Rolfing incorporates myofascial release techniques but goes beyond them by addressing the body as a whole. While myofascial release focuses on relieving tension in specific areas, Rolfing considers how different parts of the body interact and align as a system.


Additionally, Rolfing integrates other techniques, such as visceral manipulation for fascia surrounding organs and neurovascular manipulation for nerve-related fascia, making it a comprehensive approach to Structural Integration.


If you’re wondering how Rolfing differs from myofascial release—and which might be right for you—this guide will clarify their similarities and differences. If you're primarily looking for myofascial release as a standalone therapy, you can learn more about my Myofascial Release service here.


What Is Myofascial Release?


Myofascial release is a hands-on therapy that focuses on relieving tension in the myofascia, the layer of fascia that surrounds and connects muscles. This technique uses sustained pressure to stretch and release restrictions in the fascia, aiming to:

  • Alleviate pain

  • Improve mobility

  • Restore balance to specific areas of tension


Myofascial release is often applied locally, targeting a specific muscle group or area where the fascia has become tight or restricted. It’s widely used to treat conditions such as:

  • Fibromyalgia

  • Carpal tunnel syndrome

  • Plantar fasciitis

  • Tension headaches


The term “myofascial release” itself was popularized by a former student of Dr. Ida Rolf, the founder of Rolfing Structural Integration. While myofascial release techniques are widely used in bodywork, Rolfing organizes these techniques within a structured, whole-body framework.

Diagram of skeletal muscle structure showing layers of connective tissue (fascia), including epimysium, perimysium surrounding fascicles, and endomysium around individual muscle fibers.
By Hariadhi - Own work, CC BY-SA 4.0, https://commons.wikimedia.org/w/index.php?curid=150177459

What Is Rolfing Structural Integration?


Rolfing, or Structural Integration, is a holistic approach to bodywork that goes beyond technique. While it incorporates myofascial release, Rolfing’s scope extends to realigning the entire body in relation to gravity. Rather than feeling weighed down by tension and poor movement patterns, Rolfing helps the body interact with gravity more efficiently, reducing joint impact and allowing for a sense of lightness and springy, effortless movement. This systemic approach addresses not only localized issues but also how the body functions as a whole.


Rolfing works with various layers of fascia, including:


  1. Myofascia:

    • The connective tissue surrounding muscles. Myofascia is organized into layers:

      • Endomysium: Surrounds individual muscle fibers.

      • Perimysium: Encases bundles of fibers, forming fascicles.

      • Epimysium: Envelops the entire muscle.

  2. Nerve Fascia:

    • Similar in design to myofascial layers, nerves are protected by:

      • Endoneurium: Surrounds individual nerve fibers.

      • Perineurium: Encloses bundles of nerve fibers (fascicles).

      • Epineurium: Encases the entire nerve. Restrictions in these layers can lead to nerve pain or limited mobility.

  3. Visceral Fascia:

    • Surrounds and supports the internal organs. Key structures include:

      • Pleura: Encases the lungs and thoracic cavity.

      • Peritoneum: Envelops the abdominal organs.

      • Meninges: Protect the brain and spinal cord. Restrictions in these areas can influence posture, movement, and overall health.


Through a series of sessions, Rolfing aims to:

  • Relieve chronic pain.

  • Enhance movement and flexibility.

  • Improve posture and structural alignment.

  • Foster long-term physical and emotional well-being.



Diagram of nerve structure showing layers of connective tissue (fascia), including epineurium surrounding the nerve, perineurium encasing fascicles, and endoneurium around individual axons, with labeled myelinated and unmyelinated axons.
Nearly the same architecture as muscles. Image

The Key Differences Between Rolfing and Myofascial Release

Aspect

Rolfing Structural Integration

Myofascial Release

Scope

Systemic, addressing the whole body’s alignment

Localized, focusing on specific muscle areas

Philosophy

Holistic, aiming for structural integration

Refers to a technique

Fascia Addressed

Myofascia, nerve fascia, and visceral fascia

Primarily myofascia

Sessions

Individualized sessions or the Rolfing 10-session series

Individual sessions based on client needs

Depth of Work

Deep but varies based on "layer of availability"

Deep, sustained pressure

Why Rolfing Goes Beyond Myofascial Release


While Rolfing utilizes myofascial release techniques, it is more than just a method for loosening fascia. Rolfing incorporates multiple techniques into a whole-body Structural Integration process that sets it apart from deep tissue massage and myofascial release. Rolfing practitioners are trained to:


  1. Assess Structural Patterns:

    • Analyze how the entire body moves and functions, identifying imbalances that may contribute to pain or dysfunction.

  2. Address Multiple Layers of Fascia:

    • Beyond muscles, Rolfing works with deeper fascia surrounding nerves, organs, and the spinal column. For example, restrictions in the pleura can influence breathing, while tightness in the peritoneum can affect core movement.

  3. Incorporate Movement Integration:

    • Rolfing emphasizes helping clients discover more efficient movement patterns, fostering lasting change beyond the session.

  4. Work Systemically:

    • Rather than focusing on isolated areas, Rolfing considers how one part of the body affects others. For instance, a restriction in the hip fascia might contribute to plantar fasciitis or limited spinal mobility.


Conclusion


Both Rolfing and myofascial release share a common foundation in working with fascia to relieve pain and improve mobility. However, Rolfing takes a more holistic and systemic approach, addressing the entire body’s alignment and function. Whether you’re seeking targeted relief or whole-body transformation, understanding these distinctions can help you choose the right path for your needs.


If you’re curious about how Rolfing can help you achieve lasting relief and balance, schedule a session today. Together, we can create a plan that supports your journey to a healthier, more integrated body. Click here to book.



Further Reading:



 

James Tremblay is a Certified Rolfer® and Licensed Massage Therapist based in Farmington, Michigan, serving Oakland County and beyond.

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