Structural Innovations

General

What is Structural Integration?

Developed by Dr. Ida P. Rolf in the 1940's, Structural Integration is a type of body work that organizes a person's structure in the field of gravity by working with the facial system. Through a process of 10 one-hour sessions of deep tissue manipulation the fascia is lengthened, stretched, moved, and lubricated. This allows the body to be guided back to its original centerline where it can best sustain and fight the stressful effects of gravity.

Why would someone need Structural Integration?

Most people give little thought as to how gravity affects their bodies. The constant pressure of gravity can bring a steel or concrete structure crashing to the ground so imagine what it can do to our fragile bodies. When you combine this with the effects of surgical scars, the trauma of vehicle accidents or any type of injury we are fighting a losing battle. Most of us do, however, notice these effects in the realm of stress, discomfort, and pain.

What is fascia?

Fascia is a type of tissue much like saran wrap that envelops every aspect of the body. Its webbing surrounds and positions all elements of the body such as muscle, bone, skin, nerves, and organs.

Why can't I just make myself have good posture?

This work is more than just good posture. It is more then making yourself stand or move in a certain manner. Sure you could make yourself stand a certain way. But you will have to compensate and force your body to do so. This in turn will cause a myriad of other problems and imbalances you couldn't control or imagine. By going through the sessions we will free all of the stuck and bound down tissue, balance it and teach you how to use your new structure correctly so you can easily, effortlessly and freely do these things without force. They will be completely natural for your body.

Does Structural Integration hurt?

No, this process should never be painful. Though pain is relative from person to person, it has to do with past experiences as much as it does actual physical trauma. When working with any person we always stay within that individual's tolerance of comfort. In this work we are trying to bring space to the tissue and joints. If the client is in pain and trying to get away from what we are doing they are shortening tissue which is counterproductive to the end result. By maintaining good communication between client and practitioner there should never be pain in the session. Certain areas may be tender as with a good work out, but NEVER PAINFUL.

Won't my body just go back to the way it was?

A person's body always has the chance to go from worse to better and then back again. A good example would be a person's weight. It will always fluctuate as long as the food intake and activity level change. Once you get on a good cycle of eating well and keeping active you will maintain a healthy weight and body. The same goes for keeping your newfound structure. As long as you stick with the homework that is shown to you and come in for your tune up sessions at least once a month your body will maintain its amazing new structure.

What type of clothes should I wear for my Structural Integration session?

In order to properly view and assess your structure we ask that our clients wear "viewing clothes" for each session. For men, this would be something like a pair of briefs or boxer briefs. For women, this would be something like a 2 piece swimsuit or a sports bra and running shorts. With that being said, it is most important that you feel comfortable and secure the entire time you are in our office. If you are uncomfortable with these clothes please let us know and we can help find a suitable alternative.

What is the difference between massage therapy and Structural Integration?

There are many types of massage that loosen tight tissue, reduce stress, and detoxify the body and increase realization and well being. These effects are also achieved by Structural Integration, but then taken one step further. By working and balancing the body's deeper fascial layers in a three dimensional aspect, the body maintains the results of a pain free, light and easy to use structure much longer and at greater levels. The next difference is that along with getting a new structure you will learn how to use it more effectively. You will be taught how to stand and walk correctly among other movements and static positions.

What does a session cost and does insurance cover it?

Our therapists are licensed as Massage Therapists and are able to bill insurance under that category. If a patient has massage therapy benefits under their insurance plan then we will gladly bill the insurance for their treatment. If the patient does not have massage therapy benefits, then our cash price is $100 per treatment. We offer multiple payment options to ensure that everyone can afford to get well.

How much does it cost in average?

Our therapists are licensed as Massage Therapists and are able to bill insurance under that category. If a patient has massage therapy benefits under their insurance plan then we will gladly bill the insurance for their treatment. If the patient does not have massage therapy benefits, then our cash price is $100 per treatment. The process is a 10 treatment protocol so the total cost is $1000. We offer multiple payment options to ensure that everyone can afford to get well.

Do you accept Group Health?

Our therapists are participating providers with most major medical insurance carriers in the area; this includes Group Health. Because our therapists are all Licensed Massage Practitioners we would bill your Massage Therapy benefits. We would love to check insurance benefits for each and every patient.