Product Description

Written by an expert on alternative bodywork, this book presents techniques for manipulating the soft tissues of the back in a safe, simple manner. The method avoids the high velocity, low amplitude thrusting techniques employed by chiropractors. Instead, it utilizes the intuitive sense of somatic bodyworkers combined with the proven theory and technique of Rolfing to provide safe and effective treatment. Maitland shows how to elegantly release joint fixations in the spine, sacrum, pelvis, and ribcage by using subtle soft tissue techniques, rather than the rough and jerky thrusting techniques that "pop" the joints. This gentler kind of individualized Rolfing work is thoroughly described within an explanation of biomechanics, aided by drawings and photographs which depict techniques and anatomy.

Product Details

• Amazon Sales Rank: #119711 in Books
• Published on: 2001-01-15
• Released on: 2001-02-01
• Number of items: 1
• Binding: Paperback
• 164 pages

Book Info
International Rolf Institute, Scottsdale, AZ. A guide to rolfing, or structural integration, with emphasis on the problem of joint fixations at the root of common soft-tissue pain syndromes. Focuses special attention on issues of back pain. Shows how to release joint fixations in the spine, sacrum, pelvis and ribcage using a gentle type of rolfing. Halftone illustrations. Softcover.

About the Author
Jeffrey Maitland, Ph.D., is a philosophical counselor and advanced Rolfer. He is a senior instructor and Director of Academic Affairs at the International Rolf Institute. He lives and practices in Scottsdale, Arizona.

Customer Reviews

Very Good!
Excellent work! However, I would have liked more sketches pertaining to the internal work done at the manipulations. I recommend it for all bodyworkers.

A dangerous and irresponsible book
This makes as much sense as do it yourself surgery or dentistry. I wonder if the author even cares how many people he injures for his profits.

Excellent! Simple technique instruction, even for this layman
One of the most useful books I have read on body work. I have no formal training in body work, but there is nothing in the book trashing Chiropractic as the reviewer below suggests. Maitland presents a gentler method of manipulating the spine using the soft tissues that hold joints in place (or out of place). The first few chapters cover the basic techinique then the later chapters delve into techniques dealing with underlying issues, pelvis, sacrum and ribs. These simple, well-taught soft tissue techniques have not been used by the two Chiropractors I have tried for my current back pain (ignoring spinal muscle issues), which is why I bought the book. After Xrays and 30+ chiro sessions I was looking for a new approach to try since my chiros "adjust" my rotated vertebrae but they move back to the painful position shortly afterward. I wanted out of the viscious circle, so I helped myself by reading the book (had to learn a few words that body workers learn in school). I especially appreciated Maitland's writing style of restating some of the more detailed instructions with laymen's terms. After reading the book I could explain to my massage therapist how to release joint fixations by using the techniques on me without her even reading the book... it's that easy. She called me in joyful tears later that day because she was able to apply the techniques to one of her 15yr old cerebral palsy clients that very evening and help his spine relax into a more natural curve... said it was like pressing a button. She now has a secret weapon that may help her clients get out of back pain when she finds spinal fixations.