How is SI different from Massage Therapy?
Do I have to do all ten sessions?
How often should I schedule a session?
Can I just do all the sessions in a couple of weeks?
Do the effects of Structural Integration last?
Why would someone need Structural Integration?
Does Structural Integration hurt?
What type of clothes should I wear for my Structural Integration session?
What type of payments do you accept?
Q: How is SI different form Massage Therapy?
A: Structural Integration has a holistic approach that not only considers where the pain is, but seeks to find the cause of the pain. Because it is a thorough process the changes are lasting and profound. During the session you may be asked to do movements that will speed the release of tension and give your nervous system a chance to relearn a new pattern. Structural Integration focuses on the fascia (connective tissue that wraps around and through all muscles, tendons, ligaments, organs etc throughout the body), where massage focuses on the muscles. Although massage methods have great results Structural Integration is a more beneficial manual therapy. The results from Structural Integration last considerably longer. The body continues to shift and change over time. These changes last even longer when the patients are active in their own healing process, doing the exercises, and making the effort to live consciously and paying attention to all the pointers and information provided at every treatment.
A: Structural Integration is a holistic approach which strives to balance the entire body. Ten sessions gives adequate attention to each part of your structure. Each session builds on the changes already made and prepares for the next session in the series.
Q: Do I have to do all ten sessions?
A: No. You can try one session and still receive many benefits. The first three sessions should give you enough experience to decide if you want to continue on to the deeper sessions. Each session is structured so that if you must suspend the process you can do so safely.
Q: How often should I schedule a session?
A: One to two weeks is the typical duration between appointments. Feel free to discuss alternative arrangements with Katy.
Q: Can I just do all the sessions in a couple of weeks?
A: No. Connective tissue takes time to change and your nervous system needs time to acclimate to structural changes.
Q: Do the effects of Structural Integration last?
A: Yes. Once the fascia becomes better organized it is better able to adapt to the demands you put on your body. The more you participate in the re-patterning exercises outside of the office the longer the effects will last. If you continue to put your body in stressful positions or do repetitive movements you may find that you need “tune-up” sessions to maintain your body.
Q: Why would someone need Structural Integration?
A: Most people give little thought as to how gravity affects their bodies. Over time, wear and tear on the body (injuries, falls, scars, vehicle accidents, etc) can lead to the body being out of its alignment. When the body is out of its alignment that is where we experience aches, pains, strains, sprains, discomfort and even illnesses. When our bodies are in alignment we experience ease of movement, increased energy, health and a better all feeling of well being.
A: Fascia is a type of tissue much like saran wrap that envelops every aspect of the body. Its webbing surrounds and positions all elements of the body such as muscle, bone, skin, nerves, and organs.
Q: Does Structural Integration hurt?
A: No, this process should never be painful. Though pain is relative from person to person, it has to do with past experiences as much as it does actual physical trauma. When working with any person we always stay within that individual’s tolerance of comfort. In this work we are trying to bring space to the tissue and joints. If the patient is in pain and trying to get away from what we are doing they are shortening tissue which is counterproductive to the end result. By maintaining good communication between patient and practitioner there should never be pain in the session, although certain areas may be tender or even uncomfortable at times.
Q: What type of clothes should I wear for my Structural Integration session?
A: In order to properly assess your structure we ask that men wear something like a pair of briefs or boxer briefs, or stretchable shorts. For women, this would be something like a 2 piece swimsuit or a sports bra and running shorts. With that being said, it is most important that you feel comfortable and secure the entire time you are in our office. If you are uncomfortable with these clothes please let us know and we can help find a suitable alternative.
Q: What type of payments do you accept?
A: We accept all major credit cards, Venmo, and Cash Apps.
A: Fees vary based on treatment type and travel time. We will be happy to review the cost of your treatment.
San Diego Structural Integration 