Before Rolfing® was trademarked, Ida Rolf’s work was known as Structural Integration. As the work spread, some of her original students noticed it was beginning to change, so they formed their own school, the Guild for Structural Integration, to preserve Ida Rolf’s original teachings and approach. Joel Gheiler is a graduated of the Guild for Structural Integration, thus he is a Rolf practitioner, rather than a Rolfing practitioner.

Rolf Structural Integration is what Rolfing used to be, when Dr. Ida Rolf was alive and before some changes were made to her work (so they are mostly the same with some nuanced differences) and they focuse on improving overall alignment and movement by working with the body as an interconnected system, guided by a clear theoretical framework and long-term structural goals. A deep tissue massage primarily targets localized muscle tension and pain relief, using firm pressure to address specific areas, without aiming to create lasting changes in posture or whole-body organization.

Traditionally Rolfing‍ or as it was called in the past, Rolf Structural Integration , was was taught and practiced as a series of ten sessions, often called the Ten Series. Ida Rolf designed this series as a coherent “recipe” to help practitioners understand the body as an integrated whole rather than a collection of isolated parts. She intended the Ten Series not as a rigid formula, but as a foundational framework—a way for novices to grasp the larger structural picture without losing sight of the relationships between gravity, fascia, and movement.

At the same time, Ida Rolf understood that her work would evolve. She encouraged innovation and exploration, yet she also warned, “Veer from the recipe at your own peril.” By this, she emphasized the importance of respecting the physical realities of the body and the intricate interrelationships between its structures. For her, true innovation in Rolfing required both creativity and deep structural understanding.

Today, at Boston Rolf, we work with each client as an individual, guided by their unique history, goals, and structural patterns, while still honoring the intelligence of the Ten Series. This means that we use the traditional Rolfing framework as a context rather than a constraint.

For example, if someone comes in with neck pain, we do not treat the neck in isolation. Instead, we evaluate the body as a whole. We may address areas that are inhibiting vertical alignment and efficient movement—such as a restricted diaphragm, a tight chest, or imbalances in the pelvis—while also working directly with the neck to unwind fascial adhesions and restore functional mobility.

In the past, one might have waited until later sessions in the series before working specifically with the neck. With a more integrated and responsive approach to Rolf Structural Integration, we can address both the local problem and the broader structural patterns from the very beginning.

Joel Gheiler brings over 20 years of experience in Rolf Structural Integration. This depth of experience allows him to recognize patterns quickly and work skillfully with both the primary area of concern and the underlying structural relationships that support healing. The result is a process that is both precise and efficient—rooted in the tradition of Ida Rolf, the creator of Rolfing, while responsive to the real needs of each individual.

The effects of Rolfing and the Rolf Method can last days, weeks, months, or much longer, depending on the individual’s body, lifestyle, and willingness to change old habits that create restriction and strain. Because every body is different, the duration of results varies from person to person.

Rolfing and the Rolf Method often creates longer-lasting changes than most forms of bodywork because it works not only with muscles, but with fascia—the connective tissue network that shapes, supports, and organizes the entire body in gravity. By reorganizing the fascial system through Structural Integration, Rolfing can change how the body holds itself, moves, and adapts over time, rather than simply providing temporary relief.

Unfortunately, Rolf Structural Integration sessions are not covered by insurance. Rolf Structural Integration is a highly specialized approach that requires significant physical presence, technical skill, and focused attention from the Rolfer.

Working with insurance companies involves complex billing systems and strict reimbursement requirements that demand considerable administrative time and energy. Rather than diverting our focus toward insurance processing, we choose to dedicate our time and attention fully to what matters most: providing the highest quality care for our clients.

By keeping our practice independent of insurance, we are able to offer sessions that are thoughtful, individualized, and responsive to each person’s unique structural needs. Our priority is to create an environment where the work can unfold with depth, precision, and care.

deally, women are encouraged to wear comfortable, form-fitting short briefs and a supportive tube bra, and men may wear short briefs. This type of attire allows the Rolfer to observe posture, movement patterns, and structural relationships more accurately during Rolf Structural Integration sessions.

That said, with over 20 years of experience, Joel Gheiler is able to adapt the work to any attire. Your comfort and sense of safety are always the priority, and sessions can be adjusted to meet your individual needs.

Rolf Structural Integration is designed to release tension and restore balance in the body, and it can sometimes involve deep, sustained pressure. Some sensations may feel intense or slightly uncomfortable, especially when working through areas of chronic tightness or restriction.

However, “pain” is not the goal. Joel Gheiler, with over 20 years of experience, carefully monitors each client’s comfort and adapts pressure and technique to ensure the work is both effective and safe. Many clients describe the sensations as a strong but manageable release, often followed by a sense of lightness, freedom, and improved alignment.

Ultimately, the work is collaborative—your feedback guides the session, so you always remain in control of your comfort.

Absolutely! Rolf Structural Integration is not only compatible with other forms of bodywork, exercise, or physical therapy—it can actually enhance the benefits of these practices. Rolfing works at the level of fascia, the connective tissue that organizes and supports the body, helping to create structural balance and freedom of movement. When the fascia is freer and more responsive, therapies like massage, physical therapy, yoga, Pilates, or strength training can be more effective because the body is better able to integrate movement and alignment.

That said, communication is key. Sharing information about other treatments or therapies you are receiving allows your Rolf practitioner to coordinate sessions and adjust techniques so your body can respond optimally. For example, if you recently had deep tissue massage or an intense workout, your Rolf session can be tailored to support recovery rather than overload tissues.

With careful planning, Rolf Structural Integration and other modalities can complement each other, creating faster, longer-lasting improvements in posture, movement, and overall vitality.