From time to time, you may experience a few body aches and pains. Seeing a massage therapist may help you find relief for these tense points. However, your lifestyle could determine whether traditional massage therapy or Rolfing® structural integration therapy would be more beneficial. If you’re unfamiliar with these types of treatments, this guide will quickly highlight the differences between them to help you decide which to schedule. 

What Is Massage Therapy?

This is a treatment used to reduce body stress, tension, and pain. It is performed by trained professionals who manipulate the soft tissues of the body using various movements and pressures.

It is frequently considered a part of integrative medicine and used with several other treatments, including physical therapy, chiropractic treatment, and medications. It has been shown to provide muscle and general relaxation, improved circulation, better sleep, and relief from certain types of chronic pain. 

What Is Rolfing® Structural Integration Therapy?

This therapy approaches the body as a seamless network of tissues. It focuses on manipulating and reorganizing the connective tissues to resolve discomfort and stress, restore flexibility, and enhance posture and movement throughout the body. 

While traditional massage therapy techniques are used on practically everyone, Rolfing is mainly reserved for those who’ve recently sustained injuries or are in deep physical training for several hours each day. Athletes and dancers frequently use this treatment because it works to break up past scar tissue, rehabilitate injuries and prevent future ones, and improve overall performance. People who perform manual labor, including construction workers and farmers, can also benefit from it, as it works to relieve chronic pain and improve movement. By doing this, Rolfing may reduce the risk of injury on the job. 

Whether your back is tense from sitting at the office all day or you’ve recently strained a muscle during training, you can find relief at The Healing Center. Since 1987, they have provided quality chiropractic health care to Anchorage, AK. Their chiropractors are trained to perform massage and Rolfing structural integration therapy to help with your healing. Call them today at (907) 561-7041 to schedule an appointment, or visit their website to learn more about massage therapy.