Curiously, one of the problems with scar tissue, in relation to neighboring skin, muscle and fascia is that it is too uniform. Normal tissue has a glorious chaos to it, one that is incredibly flexible and adaptable, yet weaves here, there, and everywhere, where scarring tends to be too linear in fiber direction-nature’s way of buttressing the area. As with other things, like inflammation, that can occur when nature is allowed to just take its course, this is too much of a good thing. More fluidity is what is needed, in this case. By probing, oscillating, rocking, cross-fiber shearing and stretching, a Rolfer is also soothing, hydrating, and re-educating the scarred and stiffened area. We seek to bring it back to the normal chaos of human structure, to allow for the normal functional adaptability, all-dimensional flex/extension and support required in our bodies.
I will be putting my money on this approach myself soon. I have to get foot surgery December of this year, and am setting up appointments with Rolfers to work and re-work the mass of scar tissue this will create. While the thought of getting fairly radical foot surgery is terrifying for an old dancer ( and yes, it is because I am an old dancer that I need to get it done), the thought of having the support from these gifted bodyworkers really helps me, emotionally.