Influence of Rolfing Structural Integration on Lower Limb Mobility, Respiratory Thorax Mobility, and Trunk Symmetry: A Retrospective Cohort Study

Background: Previous research highlights the potential of Rolfing structural integration (SI) - a force-based mobilization of fascia - in modifying postural alignment and joint mobility. This retrospective cohort study builds upon prior work to explore the influence of SI on lower limb mobility, trunk symmetry, and respiratory thoracic expansion. Methods: We conducted a retrospective secondary analysis of data drawn from the archive of clinical records as in our previous publication (Brandl et al., 2022). A total of 563 subjects (aged 18–60 years, BMI 19–29) who completed ten SI sessions were included. Outcomes evaluated included: passive hip flexion (right/left), passive knee flexion mobility (right/left), trunk length symmetry, and chest diameter at normal breath as well as in full inspiration. Wilcoxon signed-rank tests were used for statistical analysis. Results: All parameters showed statistically significant improvements post-intervention (p < 0.001), including increased thoracic expansion, enhanced trunk symmetry, and improved mobility in hip joint flexion and knee flexion. Conclusions: Ten sessions of SI were associated with statistically significant improvements in lower limb mobility, trunk symmetry and respiratory thoracic mobility. These findings support the role of SI in addressing postural and mobility-related dysfunctions through fascia-oriented mobilization.