Painful Connections: Densification Versus Fibrosis of Fascia
P G Pavan, Antonio Stecco, R Stern, Carla Stecco
Fascial pain can stem from reversible densification or more permanent fibrosis, which may require different treatment approaches.
Deep fascia has long been considered a source of pain, secondary to nerve pain receptors becoming enmeshed within the pathological changes to which fascia are subject. Densification and fibrosis are among such changes. They can modify the mechanical properties of deep fasciae and damage the function of underlying muscles or organs. Distinguishing between these two different changes in fascia, and understanding the connective tissue matrix within fascia, together with the mechanical forces involved, will make it possible to assign more specific treatment modalities to relieve chronic pain syndromes. This review provides an overall description of deep fasciae and the mechanical properties in order to identify the various alterations that can lead to pain. Diet, exercise, and overuse syndromes are able to modify the viscosity of loose connective tissue within fascia, causing densification, an alteration that is easily reversible. Trauma, surgery, diabetes, and aging alter the fibrous layers of fasciae, leading to fascial fibrosis.
The episode was first published on the Swedish podcast Fasciaguiden on May 26, 2025. In this episode, we meet the French surgeon Jean-Claude Guimberteau, who has spent more than 3…
The episode was first published on The Fascia Guide YouTube channel on February 5, 2025. In this inspiring episode, we meet Deanna Hansen — founder of Block Therapy™ and a pioneer…