Research.
Every peer-reviewed study on fascia in one place — graded for strength of evidence, summarised in plain language for clinicians, researchers, and curious patients.
We grade studies from A to 1A+++ using the Fascia Research Database rubric — 1A+++ is the strongest.
Adhesive Capsulitis of the Shoulder Joint: Value of Glenohumeral Distance on Magnetic Resonance Arthrography
Researchers investigated a new way to help diagnose adhesive capsulitis (frozen shoulder) using a specific type of MRI called MR arthrography. They measured the distance between the ball and socket of the shoulder joint…
Emotions in Motion: Myofascial Interoception
In this perspective piece, the authors argue that the myofascial system is closely linked to our emotional state. They suggest that manual treatment not only affects the body physically but also activates the interocept…
Fasting-Mimicking Diet Promotes Ngn3-Driven β-Cell Regeneration to Reverse Diabetes
This study, involving mice and human pancreatic cells, explores how cycles of a fasting-mimicking diet (FMD) may influence the pancreas's ability to produce insulin. Researchers found that the diet appears to activate g…
Mechanical properties of a collagen fibril under simulated degradation
This study used computer simulations to investigate how collagen fibrils lose their strength. Researchers modeled three different types of degradation: the removal of cross-links, surface damage, and damage throughout t…
Dietary emulsifiers directly alter human microbiota composition and gene expression ex vivo potentiating intestinal inflammation
This study investigated how common food additives, specifically the emulsifiers polysorbate 80 (P80) and carboxymethylcellulose (CMC), affect the gut microbiota. Using a laboratory model of the human intestinal ecosyste…
Art Advancing Science: Filmmaking Leads to Molecular Insights at the Nanoscale
A project that began as an artistic endeavor to create an entertaining short film about fertilization led to the development of a new scientific simulation tool. By integrating physics-based animation software from the…
Fasting-mimicking diet and markers/risk factors for aging, diabetes, cancer, and cardiovascular disease
This randomized controlled trial examined the effects of a fasting-mimicking diet (FMD) on risk factors for age-related diseases in 100 healthy participants. For five consecutive days each month over a three-month perio…
We are operating too much
In this editorial, the author, an orthopedic and trauma surgeon, observes a rising number of operations for orthopedic and trauma ailments. He notes that this trend runs counter to the results of high-quality studies, w…
Effects of the menstrual cycle on lower-limb biomechanics, neuromuscular control, and anterior cruciate ligament injury risk: a systematic review
This systematic review evaluated how the menstrual cycle affects lower-limb biomechanics, neuromuscular control, and anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) injury risk in women. The authors found strong evidence that the risk…
The Effect of Menstrual Cycle and Contraceptives on ACL Injuries and Laxity
This systematic review and meta-analysis investigated the relationship between the menstrual cycle, hormonal contraceptives, and the risk of anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) injuries. The researchers found that knee lig…
Semimembranosus Muscle Injuries In Sport. A Practical MRI use for Prognosis
This retrospective study investigated whether MRI scans could help predict recovery time for athletes with injuries to the semimembranosus, one of the hamstring muscles. Researchers analyzed MRI scans from 19 athletes,…
Sensitivity of ACL Volume and T2* Relaxation Time to Magnetic Resonance Imaging Scan Conditions
This animal study investigated how different magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) conditions affect measurements of the anterior cruciate ligament (ACL). Researchers in this pig study compared images taken at different reso…
Hyaluronan as a therapeutic target in human diseases
This narrative review explores the role of hyaluronan, a major component of the extracellular matrix involved in tissue injury and repair. Its function varies significantly with its size; fragmented hyaluronan can promo…
Oxidative Stress and Endometriosis: A Systematic Review of the Literature
This systematic review explores the connection between oxidative stress and endometriosis, a condition where uterine-like tissue grows outside the uterus, causing pain and infertility. Oxidative stress is an imbalance b…
Biological effects of direct and indirect manipulation of the fascial system. Narrative review
This narrative review explores the biological effects of manual fascial therapies. While osteopathic manipulative treatment (OMT) is clinically effective, its underlying mechanisms are not fully understood. The authors…
Improvement of skin condition by oral administration of collagen hydrolysates in chronologically aged mice
This animal study investigated how oral supplementation of collagen hydrolysates derived from fish scales affected chronological skin aging in mice over six months. The researchers found that mice receiving collagen in…
Shielding of the geomagnetic field reduces hydrogen peroxide production in human neuroblastoma cell and inhibits the activity of CuZn superoxide dismutase
This study investigates how an extremely weak magnetic field, similar to conditions in outer space or shielded environments on Earth, affects human cells. Researchers found that shielding the natural geomagnetic field r…
The second terminations of the suboccipital muscles: An assistant pivot for the To Be Named Ligament
In this anatomical dissection study of 35 head-neck specimens, researchers investigated small muscle attachments in the suboccipital region. The scientists confirmed the existence of "second terminations" from several s…
Vitamin C–enriched gelatin supplementation before intermittent activity augments collagen synthesis
In a small study involving eight healthy men, researchers investigated the effect of vitamin C-enriched gelatin supplementation before exercise. Participants who consumed 15 grams of gelatin one hour before a short, int…
The effect of pre-exercise vibration stimulation on the exercise-induced muscle damage
This study investigated whether vibration stimulation before or after exercise could reduce exercise-induced muscle damage. Thirty healthy men were divided into three groups: one receiving vibration before exercise, one…
Acute effects of foam rolling on passive tissue stiffness and fascial sliding: study protocol for a randomized controlled trial
This document is a study protocol, outlining the planned method for a randomized controlled trial, not a report of its results. The researchers intend to investigate the immediate effects of foam rolling on the anterior…
Acoustic wave therapy for cellulite, body shaping and fat reduction
This study evaluated the efficacy of acoustic wave therapy (AWT) for cellulite and body shaping. Thirty women with moderate to severe cellulite underwent 12 treatment sessions on the glutes and thighs over six weeks. Th…
Correlations of magnetic resonance imaging findings with clinical symptom severity and prognosis of frozen shoulder
Researchers used a specific type of MRI (indirect MR arthrography) to examine the shoulders of 52 people with frozen shoulder and 52 without. They found that certain features, like thickening and inflammation-related ch…
Role of Magnesium in Vitamin D Activation and Function
In this scientific review, the authors discuss how magnesium and vitamin D work together in the body. Magnesium acts as a cofactor, meaning it helps activate the enzymes that metabolize vitamin D in the liver and kidney…
NAD and the aging process: Role in life, death and everything in between
This narrative review explores the vital role of the molecule NAD in cellular health and the aging process. Beyond its traditional role in metabolism, NAD is essential for cell signaling and regulating the epigenetic st…
Telocytes: Connective tissue repair and communication cells
This commentary highlights a newly identified type of connective tissue cell called a telocyte. We already know that other cells, like fibroblasts, respond to mechanical forces from manual therapy, influencing tissue re…
Activation of type 2 cannabinoid receptor (CB2R) by selective agonists regulates the deposition and remodelling of the extracellular matrix
This in vitro study investigated how activating the type 2 cannabinoid receptor (CB2R) affects scar formation in eye connective tissue after surgery. Researchers found that human Tenon’s fibroblasts express these recept…
Implications of immune dysfunction on endometriosis associated infertility
This literature review explores the link between endometriosis and infertility, a common issue for which the cause is not fully understood. The authors suggest that dysfunction in the immune system plays a significant r…
Touch, Tension, and Transduction - The Function and Regulation of Piezo Ion Channels
This narrative review explores Piezo1 and Piezo2, specialized proteins that act as the body's primary mechanical sensors. These ion channels convert physical forces like touch, tension, and fluid flow into electrical si…
Non-contrast MRI diagnosis of adhesive capsulitis of the shoulder
This study investigated whether a standard MRI without contrast dye could be used to reliably diagnose adhesive capsulitis, also known as frozen shoulder. Researchers reviewed MRIs for specific signs, such as a thickene…
Effects of vitamin C supplementation on glycaemic control: a systematic review and meta-analysis of randomised controlled trials
This systematic review and meta-analysis compiled data from 22 randomized controlled trials to assess the effect of vitamin C supplementation on glycemic control. Overall, the researchers found no significant effect on…
Amino acid composition in determination of collagen origin and assessment of physical factors effects
This study examines the amino acid composition of collagen derived from various sources, including fish skin, bovine Achilles tendon, and bone tissue. The researchers found that the levels of hydroxyproline, a unique am…
Effect of MELT method on thoracolumbar connective tissue: The full study
This study investigated if the MELT method, a self-treatment technique using soft rollers and balls, could affect the thoracolumbar connective tissue in people with chronic low back pain. Researchers used ultrasound ima…
Multimerin-2 is a ligand for group 14 family C-type lectins CLEC14A, CD93 and CD248 spanning the endothelial pericyte interface
Researchers investigated how certain proteins interact to form new blood vessels, a process called angiogenesis that is crucial for tumor growth. This study, which included lab experiments and mouse models, identified a…
Hydrocortisone, Vitamin C, and Thiamine for the Treatment of Severe Sepsis and Septic Shock: A Retrospective Before-After Study
In this retrospective before-after study, researchers investigated the effect of a combination therapy of intravenous vitamin C, hydrocortisone, and thiamine for patients with severe sepsis and septic shock. They compar…
Does the vaginal wall become thinner as prolapse grade increases?
This study investigated the relationship between vaginal wall thickness and the severity of pelvic organ prolapse. Researchers used ultrasound to measure the vaginal walls of 243 women with symptomatic prolapse. They fo…
Decorin and biglycan are necessary for maintaining collagen fibril structure, fiber realignment, and mechanical properties of mature tendons
This study on mice investigated the role of two molecules, decorin and biglycan, in maintaining healthy adult tendons. Researchers used a genetic model to remove these molecules from mature patellar tendons after they h…
Interaction between the gut microbiome and mucosal immune system
In this narrative review, the authors outline the two-way relationship between the gut microbiome and the mucosal immune system. A balanced microbiome is essential for the proper maturation and function of the immune sy…
Mechanical Properties of the Cytoskeleton and Cells
In this review article, the authors describe the cytoskeleton, which is the cell's main mechanical structure. It is a complex and dynamic network of biopolymers that includes microtubules, actin, and intermediate filame…
Mitochondrial dysfunction in the APP/PSEN1 mouse model of Alzheimer’s disease and a novel protective role for ascorbate
In this animal study, researchers examined mitochondrial function in a mouse model of Alzheimer's disease and in mice with low levels of vitamin C (ascorbate). The results indicated that both the presence of amyloid (as…
Therapeutic effectiveness of instrument-assisted soft tissue mobilization for soft tissue injury: mechanisms and practical application
This narrative review explores the mechanisms and practical use of Instrument-Assisted Soft Tissue Mobilization (IASTM) for treating soft tissue injuries. IASTM involves using specialized tools to apply mechanical press…
Complex mechanics of the heterogeneous extracellular matrix in cancer
This narrative review explores the complex role of the extracellular matrix (ECM), the non-cellular network that provides structural support to tissues. In solid tumors, the ECM becomes highly altered and complex, as ca…
Fibronectin in cell adhesion and migration via N-glycosylation
Fibronectin is a protein in blood plasma that helps cells stick together and move, a process essential for wound healing. This study investigated how a specific chemical modification, called N-glycosylation, affects fib…
CT arthrography of adhesive capsulitis of the shoulder: Are MR signs applicable?
This retrospective study investigated whether signs of adhesive capsulitis (frozen shoulder) typically seen on MRI could also be identified using CT arthrography (CTA). Researchers compared CTA scans from 22 patients wi…
Correlation between chronic headaches and the rectus capitis posterior minor muscle: A comparative analysis of cross-sectional trail
Researchers investigated the relationship between chronic headaches and a small muscle at the base of the skull, the rectus capitis posterior minor (RCPmi). Using magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), they compared the size…
Cystocele and functional anatomy of the pelvic floor: review and update of the various theories
This narrative review examines different anatomical theories about how the pelvic floor supports the bladder. The researchers summarize that this support involves a complex interplay of the pubocervical fascia, endopelv…
Understanding Mechanobiology: Physical Therapists as a Force in Mechanotherapy and Musculoskeletal Regenerative Rehabilitation
This perspective article explores the field of mechanobiology and how physical therapists use mechanical forces to promote tissue healing. It explains that cells in our muscles, bones, and tendons respond to physical st…
Clinical applications of vibration therapy in orthopaedic practice
This literature review examines the use of vibration therapy in orthopedic practice. Researchers analyzed 71 studies to understand its effects on bone, muscles, and tendons. The review notes that inconsistencies in appl…
Effect of the Suboccipital Musculature on Symptom Severity and Recovery after Mild Traumatic Brain Injury
This study investigated whether the size of the deep neck muscles at the base of the skull is related to symptoms and recovery after a mild traumatic brain injury (mTBI). Researchers used MRI to measure the cross-sectio…
STRETCHING IMPACTS INFLAMMATION RESOLUTION IN CONNECTIVE TISSUE
In this animal study, researchers investigated the effect of stretching on acute inflammation in the connective tissue of rats. After inducing local inflammation in the rats' backs, one group was subjected to twice-dail…
Patterns of attachment of the myodural bridge by the rectus capitis posterior minor muscle
This anatomical study used dissection and plastination techniques to examine the myodural bridge, a small tissue connection in the upper neck. Researchers focused on the attachments of the rectus capitis posterior minor…
Connection of the Posterior Occipital Muscle and Dura Mater of the Siamese Crocodile
In this animal study, researchers investigated a connective tissue structure called the myodural bridge in six Siamese crocodiles. This bridge connects deep muscles in the suboccipital region to the dura mater, the oute…
A Systematic Review of the Soft-Tissue Connections Between Neck Muscles and Dura Mater
In this systematic review, researchers compiled data from 26 studies to investigate direct soft-tissue connections between neck muscles and the dura mater, the outermost membrane surrounding the spinal cord. The analysi…
Monitoring the primo vascular system in lymphatic vessels by using window chambers
In this animal study, researchers developed a method for observing the primo vascular system (PVS) inside the lymphatic vessels of rats over an extended period. By implanting a "window chamber" into the skin and injecti…
Manual evaluation of the diaphragm muscle
The diaphragm is a vital muscle for breathing, but it also plays a key role in posture, organ function, and even emotional states. Despite its importance, there is little scientific literature on how to manually assess…
Overlapping signatures of chronic pain in the DNA methylation landscape of prefrontal cortex and peripheral T cells
In this animal study, researchers investigated how chronic pain might be linked to epigenetic changes, specifically DNA methylation. They compared rats with long-term nerve injury pain to a control group, examining tiss…
Thermographic mapping of the skin surface in biometric evaluation of cellulite treatment effectiveness
This study explored a new way to objectively measure the effectiveness of cellulite treatments using thermal imaging (thermography). Researchers followed ten women undergoing a series of treatments, taking thermal image…
Collagen structure: new tricks from a very old dog
This narrative review summarizes how our understanding of collagen's triple helix structure has evolved. Initial models from the 1950s provided a general overview, but the development of synthetic collagen-like peptides…
Human Recombinant Hyaluronidase Injections For Upper Limb Muscle Stiffness in Individuals With Cerebral Injury: A Case Series
This case series investigated injections of the enzyme hyaluronidase to treat upper limb muscle stiffness in 20 individuals with cerebral injury. The researchers hypothesized that an accumulation of hyaluronan in the mu…
Functional in vitro tension measurements of fascial tissue – a novel modified superfusion approach
In this laboratory study on rat tissue, researchers compared two techniques for measuring tension changes in fascia. The traditional method involves immersing the tissue in a fluid bath, but the team also tested a modif…