About Karl

Karl has 20+ years practicing as a massage therapy Rolfer™. He uses the big box techniques from the Rolfing™ tradition and many manual techniques that he has learned from his osteopathic teachers.

Rolfing™ is a great option for athletic injuries, automobile accident clients, and anyone with ongoing or chronic issues. Karl has successfully resolved many musculo-skeletal dysfunctions that have persisted for years.

Karl, an independent contractor at HHAC, is an active bicyclist, hiker and canoeist. He owns  a small ranch where he raises exclusively grass fed animals. Karl has practiced a healthy, natural diet all his adult life and has an intense curiosity in functional medicine and how the human body can operate at its highest level of functioning.

What is Rolfing?

Rolfing, also known as Rolfing Structural Integration, is a therapeutic technique developed by Dr. Ida P. Rolf in the mid-20th century. This method is designed to enhance the body’s alignment and balance through manipulation of the connective tissue, or fascia. Unlike conventional massage, which primarily targets muscles, Rolfing focuses on the body’s structure as a whole, aiming to improve posture, relieve chronic pain, and increase overall physical function.

The Concept Behind Rolfing

Rolfing is based on the premise that the body functions best when its structure is properly aligned with gravity. Over time, injury, stress, and habitual movement patterns can cause the fascia to become tight and misaligned, leading to discomfort and restricted movement. Rolfing seeks to correct these imbalances by systematically working through the entire body, releasing tension and realigning the fascia.

The Rolfing Process

A typical Rolfing series consists of ten sessions, each lasting about 60 to 90 minutes. These sessions are designed to address different areas of the body, progressively working from superficial layers of fascia to deeper layers. The process involves:

1. Evaluation: The Rolfer assesses the client’s posture, movement, and any areas of tension or imbalance.
2. Manipulation: Using hands, fingers, and sometimes elbows, the Rolfer applies pressure to the fascia, stretching and lengthening it to release tension and realign the body.
3. Integration: The final sessions focus on integrating the changes into the body’s overall structure, promoting lasting alignment and balance.

Benefits of Rolfing

Rolfing offers a range of benefits that extend beyond simple pain relief. Some of the key advantages include:

• Improved Posture: By realigning the body, Rolfing can help correct poor posture, reducing strain on muscles and joints.
• Enhanced Mobility: Releasing tight fascia increases flexibility and range of motion, making daily activities and physical exercise easier.
• Chronic Pain Relief: Many clients experience significant reductions in chronic pain, particularly in the back, neck, and shoulders.
• Better Athletic Performance: Athletes often find that Rolfing improves their performance by enhancing body mechanics and reducing the risk of injury.
• Stress Reduction: The release of tension in the fascia can lead to a deep sense of relaxation and well-being.

Who Can Benefit from Rolfing?

Rolfing is suitable for a wide range of individuals, from those dealing with chronic pain to athletes seeking to optimize their performance. It’s also beneficial for people recovering from injuries or surgeries, as well as those looking to improve their posture and overall physical function.