By Susan, Rolfing® client, Aix-en-Provence, France
I have severe Scoliosis and have been seeing Rolfers® for over 40 years.
My name is Susan. I was a forceps baby, born with a broken collar bone. Perhaps it was this early physical trauma combined with a tumultuous home life that contributed to my scoliosis.
At 13, my parents wanted me to wear a back brace, and doctors talked about back surgery. I refused both and sought alternative ways to alleviate my pain. I saw chiropractors, even a healer a few times…massage provided some relief. I’ve taken multiple yoga classes with many different teachers that insisted that it wouldn’t hurt my back and every time I was in such pain it was crazy.
Finally, I met my Rolfer® in Philadelphia, Linda Grace, who worked with me for over 36 years! She was fantastic, and not only did she help align my body and alleviate my pain, but as you can imagine, we became friends over the years.
The only thing that has ever worked for me was Rolfing® Structural Integration.
I moved to the south of France almost 6 years ago, and I continue to see Rolfers® here.
Now 64, my curvature and pain is more intense as I have aged. Whenever I feel like I am curving into my scoliosis and leaning over with age, I get a tune-up.
Rolfing continues to provide relief for me. The regular Rolfing sessions help with restoring balance to my body, allowing me to stand up straighter and give me more mobility.
I don’t know what I would do without my tune-up sessions!
Wherever we travel the first thing I look for is a Rolfer. Last Christmas I saw a Rolfer® in Paris. We are going to London soon and I have already scheduled a Rolfing appointment.
Thanks to Rolfers® who have the expertise to allow me to alleviate some pain and give me mobility!
What is Scoliosis and how can Rolfing® help?
Scoliosis, with its characteristic lateral curvature of the spine, is about the whole body. Its causes are complex and include genetic predisposition, imbalances in spinal growth between the anterior and posterior regions, and irregularities in the connective tissues, skeletal muscles and nerves.
One of the greatest strengths of Rolfing® Structural Integration is its holistic approach to this severe condition. Rolfers® work meticulously to release tension and restrictions in the fascia to restore balance and function of the musculoskeletal system.
By recognising the multi-faceted nature of scoliosis and incorporating techniques that include the physical, emotional, and psychological aspects of the condition, Rolfing offers the potential for better outcomes and a deeper understanding of this difficult condition.
More Information
In her article "Scoliosis: A Way of Growing", Certified Advanced Rolfing Instructor Pierpaola Volpones states that scoliosis is not just a shape of the spine, but a dynamic action throughout the body.
It is not a disease, but a way of growing, a strategy that the body has adopted. With this in mind, when working with scoliosis, Rolfers® should not only focus on the body, but also on the client's perception, coordination and meaning, including body image and body schema.
Read this and other articles on how Rolfing Structural Integration can help with scoliosis in the December 2018 issue of Structure, Function, Integration.
Learn more about Rolfing® Structural Integration.
Find a Rolfer® or Rolf Movement™ Practitioner near you
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More information on how to become a Certified Rolfer®.
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