Related Terms

• Aston Patterning, bodywork, deep tissue bodywork, massage, movement therapy, Rolfing®, somatic education, Structural Integration.

Background

• Joseph Heller, a practitioner of Rolfing® (manipulation of the muscles), developed Hellerwork in 1979. Hellerwork is a form of structural integration that uses multiple techniques, including deep-tissue bodywork, movement education and verbal interaction to improve posture. Each session may last from 30 to 90 minutes, and a patient usually attends multiple sessions. Hellerwork professional certification involves a 1,250-hour program.

Theory

• In general, Hellerwork practitioners believe that memory is held in the muscles and tissues of the body, as well as in the brain. Treating a patient at the structural level is thought to alter the psychological or neurological state. Hellerwork is aimed at improving or restoring the body's natural balance and posture. There are numerous anecdotes about successful treatment with Hellerwork, although effectiveness and safety have not been thoroughly studied scientifically.

Scientific Evidence

Tradition/Theory

The below uses are based on tradition or scientific theories. They often have not been thoroughly tested in humans, and safety and effectiveness have not always been proven. Some of these conditions are potentially serious and should be evaluated by a qualified health care professional.

• Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis, anxiety/stress, athletic performance, cancers (B-cell), carpal tunnel syndrome, chronic pain, headache, hyperthyroidism, improving breathing, improving mobility, increases energy, low back pain, muscle strains/pain, musculoskeletal conditions, neck pain, osteoarthritis, pain, Parkinson's disease, respiratory problems, sports injuries, stress, tennis elbow, thoracic spine pain, well-being, whiplash.

Safety

Many complementary techniques are practiced by healthcare professionals with formal training, in accordance with the standards of national organizations. However, this is not universally the case, and adverse effects are possible. Due to limited research, in some cases only limited safety information is available.

• The safety of Hellerwork has not been thoroughly studied scientifically. In theory, Hellerwork may make some existing symptoms worse. Deep-tissue massage is not advisable in some conditions. Patients should speak with a qualified health care provider before starting treatment.

Author Information

• This information is based on a systematic review of scientific literature edited and peer-reviewed by contributors to the Natural Standard Research Collaboration (www.naturalstandard.com).

References

Natural Standard developed the above evidence-based information based on a thorough systematic review of the available scientific articles. For comprehensive information about alternative and complementary therapies on the professional level, go to www.naturalstandard.com. Selected references are listed below.

1. Bajelis D. Hellerwork: the ultimate in myofascial release. Intl J Altern Compl Med 1994;12(1):26-30.

2. Hornung S. An ABC of alternative medicine: Hellerwork. Health Visit 1986;59(12):387-388. View Abstract