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.
The effect of an active vibration stimulus according to different shoulder joint angles on functional reach and stability of the shoulder joint
This study investigated how active vibration exercise with a Flexi-Bar at different shoulder angles affected shoulder joint function and stability in 30 healthy male students. Participants were divided into three groups…
Cellulite treatment: a comprehensive literature review
In this 2015 literature review, researchers compiled the results from various cellulite treatments. They analyzed 73 clinical studies involving human subjects, most of whom were women. The evaluated treatments included…
Collagen network strengthening following cyclic tensile loading
Tissues adapt to the mechanical loads they experience, with collagen being the primary load-bearing component. In this study, researchers investigated how a collagen-based material responded to repeated, cyclic tensile…
Hyaluronan Regulates Bone Morphogenetic Protein-7- dependent Prevention and Reversal of Myofibroblast Phenotype
This study on human lung fibroblasts investigated how a protein called BMP7 might counteract fibrosis. Researchers found that BMP7 can prevent and even reverse the formation of myofibroblasts, which are cells that contr…
Osmotic pressure induced tensile forces in tendon collagen
Researchers investigated the role of water in tendon collagen using a combination of experiments and computer modeling. They found that water is a crucial part of the collagen molecule's structure. When water is removed…
Telocytes in regenerative medicine
This 2015 review article summarizes research on telocytes, a distinct type of cell found in the connective tissue of many organs. These cells form a complex 3D network and are thought to play a key role in guiding stem…
Primo Vascular System: A Unique Biological System Shifting a Medical Paradigm
This article describes the primo vascular system (PVS), a unique biological system distinct from the arteriovenous and lymphatic systems. Research suggests the PVS has immune and endocrine functions and plays a role in…
Size Matters: Molecular Weight Specificity of Hyaluronan Effects in Cell Biology
This narrative review summarizes current knowledge about hyaluronan, a molecule whose biological effects are dependent on its size. Unlike many other molecules, hyaluronan's signaling properties are determined not by ch…
Comparative effects of vitamin C on the effects of local anesthetics ropivacaine, bupivacaine, and lidocaine on human chondrocytes
Local anesthetics injected into joints can sometimes be harmful to cartilage cells (chondrocytes). This laboratory study investigated the effects of three common anesthetics—ropivacaine, bupivacaine, and lidocaine—on hu…
Chondroprotection and the Prevention of Osteoarthritis Progression of the Knee
In this systematic review, researchers evaluated whether certain medications and supplements could protect joint cartilage and slow the progression of knee osteoarthritis. By analyzing randomized controlled trials, they…
Platelet hyaluronidase-2: an enzyme that translocates to the surface upon activation to function in extracellular matrix degradation
Platelets play a key role in responding to tissue injury. This study explores how they interact with hyaluronan, a major component of the extracellular matrix that is involved in inflammation. Researchers demonstrated t…
Glycine improves biochemical and biomechanical properties following inflammation of the achilles tendon
This animal study investigated the effect of the amino acid glycine on inflamed Achilles tendons in rats. Researchers induced inflammation and then fed one group of rats a diet supplemented with 5% glycine. After 22 day…
Innervation Changes Induced by Inflammation of the Thoracolumbar Fascia
This animal study investigated how inflammation affects the nerves in the thoracolumbar fascia (TLF) of rats. Researchers induced inflammation in the TLF and compared its nerve fiber density to that of healthy fascia. W…
Transforming Growth Factor-beta1 (TGF-beta1)-stimulated Fibroblast to Myofibroblast Differentiation Is Mediated by Hyaluronan (HA)-facilitated Epidermal Growth Factor Receptor (EGFR) and CD44 Co-localization in Lipid Rafts
The transformation of fibroblasts into myofibroblasts is a key part of wound healing, a process largely regulated by the signaling molecule TGF-β1. This study investigated how hyaluronan (HA) and specific receptors (CD4…
Pathophysiology and Immune Dysfunction in Endometriosis
This narrative review explores the current understanding of endometriosis, a chronic inflammatory condition affecting many women of reproductive age. The authors focus on how endometriosis lesions develop a blood supply…
Evidence for the existence of nociceptors in rat thoracolumbar fascia
This animal study on rats investigated the presence of pain-sensing nerve fibers (nociceptors) in the thoracolumbar fascia. Researchers compared normal fascia with tissue in which they had induced inflammation. The resu…
Hyaluronic acid and wound healing
In this systematic review, researchers compiled studies on hyaluronic acid (HA) and wound healing published from 2010–2014. The review found that HA is used for tissue regeneration, either alone or in combination with o…
Estrogen inhibits lysyl oxidase and decreases mechanical function in engineered ligaments
This lab study investigated why women are more likely to rupture their anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) than men, focusing on the role of estrogen. Researchers used human ACL cells to create engineered ligaments in a la…
New Developments in the Primo Vascular System: Imaging and Functions with regard to Acupuncture
This research entry, for which only the title is available, appears to discuss recent advancements in understanding the primo vascular system. The title suggests a focus on new imaging techniques and the system's functi…
Electron microscopy of human fascia lata: focus on telocytes
This study used an electron microscope to examine the types of cells present in the fascia lata, a sheet of connective tissue in the thigh. For the first time, researchers confirmed the existence of a specific cell type…
Modelling the mechanoreceptor’s dynamic behaviour
This study developed a computational model to better understand how mechanoreceptors, our body's stretch and pressure sensors, adapt to stimuli. Researchers adapted a model originally used for vision in flies to simulat…
Effects of plant sterols derived from Aloe vera gel on human dermal fibroblasts in vitro and on skin condition in Japanese women
This study investigated how plant sterols from Aloe vera gel affect the skin, using both laboratory tests on human skin cells (fibroblasts) and a clinical trial with women. In the lab, these sterols were found to stimul…
Remodelling the extracellular matrix in development and disease
This narrative review describes the extracellular matrix (ECM), a dynamic network present in all body tissues that undergoes constant remodeling. This remodeling process is crucial for regulating cell functions like pro…
Optimal Vitamin D Supplementation Levels for Cardiovascular Disease Protection
This narrative review explores the growing body of evidence linking vitamin D to cardiovascular health. While traditionally associated with bone health, data suggests vitamin D status may be a marker for, and possibly a…
Primo Vascular System: An Endothelial-to-Mesenchymal Potential Transitional Tissue Involved in Gastric Cancer Metastasis
The primo vascular system (PVS) is described as a distinct circulatory network beyond the blood and lymphatic systems. This study investigated the role this system might play in the spread of gastric cancer. The researc…
Primo-Vascular System as Presented by Bong Han Kim
In the 1960s, researcher Bong Han Kim described a new vascular system, distinct from the blood and lymph systems, which he proposed was involved in tissue regeneration. However, his work was difficult for later scientis…
Hyaluronan, inflammation and breast cancer progression
This narrative review explores the link between inflammation, the tissue component hyaluronan (HA), and breast cancer progression. Cancer cells and surrounding host cells can create an inflamed microenvironment that hel…
The effects of grounding (earthing) on inflammation, the immune response, wound healing, and prevention and treatment of chronic inflammatory and autoimmune diseases
This report summarizes research on the effects of "grounding" or "earthing," which involves direct electrically conductive contact with the Earth's surface. The research suggests this contact may influence the body's ph…
Essential role for autophagy in life span extension
This narrative review explores the essential role of autophagy, a cellular recycling process that breaks down and removes damaged components to maintain health. The authors explain how interventions like caloric restric…
Gymnastic Training and Dynamic Mobilization Exercises Improve Stride Quality and Increase Epaxial Muscle Size in Therapy Horses
This study on therapy horses investigated how specific exercises affect stride and back muscles. Over three months, nine horses were divided into three groups: a control group, one doing dynamic mobilization exercises,…
Myofascial Trigger Points Then and Now: A Historical and Scientific Perspective
This narrative review explores the historical and scientific understanding of myofascial trigger points (MTrPs) and their role in myofascial pain syndrome (MPS). MTrPs are palpable nodules in taut muscle bands, long con…
Neurovisceral phenotypes in the expression of psychiatric symptoms
This narrative review explores the idea that vulnerability to anxiety may be rooted in inherent physical differences in how the body is regulated. The authors focus on conditions like joint hypermobility, Postural Tachy…
The extracellular matrix: Tools and insights for the “omics” era
This narrative review discusses the extracellular matrix (ECM), the complex network of proteins and molecules that provides structural and chemical support to our cells and tissues. Alterations in the ECM are associated…
Investigation of meningomyovertebral structures within the upper cervical epidural space: a sheet plastination study with clinical implications
This cadaver study investigated soft-tissue connections within the epidural space of the upper cervical spine using dissection and a technique called sheet plastination. The researchers found consistent connections wher…
Sensory Nerve Fibers Containing Calcitonin Gene-Related Peptide in Gastrocnemius, Latissimus Dorsi and Erector Spinae Muscles and Thoracolumbar Fascia in Mice
In this animal study, researchers investigated sensory nerve fibers containing CGRP, a peptide involved in pain signaling. They compared the presence of these nerve fibers in various muscles (gastrocnemius, latissimus d…
Manual therapies and hypoalgesia: What are the mechanisms?
This is a title-only entry, and its contents have not yet been summarized. The title suggests the article explores the possible mechanisms behind hypoalgesia, or a decreased sensitivity to pain, following manual therapi…
Changes in electrical pain threshold of fascia and muscle after initial and secondary bouts of elbow flexor eccentric exercise
This study investigated how pain sensitivity changes in fascia and muscle after strenuous eccentric exercise. Ten young men performed two bouts of maximal eccentric elbow curls, four weeks apart. After the first session…
Structural Integration as an Adjunct to Outpatient Rehabilitation for Chronic Nonspecific Low Back Pain: A Randomized Pilot Clinical Trial
This randomized pilot clinical trial investigated if adding Structural Integration (SI) to standard outpatient rehabilitation could help people with chronic non-specific low back pain. Researchers assigned 46 participan…
BioTensegrity Fascia and the fallacy of biomechanics, Part 2.
In this conceptual article, the second in a series, the author introduces BioTensegrity as an alternative to classical biomechanics. He argues that traditional models of animal and human movement, which date back to the…
Efficacy of phytoestrogens for menopausal symptoms: a meta-analysis and systematic review
This systematic review and meta-analysis of 15 randomized controlled trials examined the effectiveness of plant-based estrogens, known as phytoestrogens, for relieving menopausal symptoms. The findings suggest that phyt…
A unifying neuro-fasciagenic model of somatic dysfunction - Underlying mechanisms and treatment - Part II
This review paper proposes a new, unifying "neuro-fasciagenic" model for understanding somatic dysfunction. The author argues for a shift in perspective, moving from a purely neurological explanation to one where fascia…
Influence of different intensities of vibration on proliferation and differentiation of human periodontal ligament stem cells
In this laboratory study, researchers investigated how low-magnitude, high-frequency vibration affects stem cells from the human periodontal ligament, the tissue that holds teeth in the jaw. The results suggest that vib…
BioTensegrity Fascia and the fallacy of biomechanics. Part 1
This conceptual article introduces Biotensegrity as an emerging model for understanding human anatomy. It challenges traditional biomechanics by viewing the body as a continuous tensional network in which fascia plays a…
Collagen Crosslinking Does Not Dictate Stiffness in a Transgenic Mouse Model of Skeletal Muscle Fibrosis
In this animal study on mice, researchers investigated why fibrotic, or scarred, skeletal muscle becomes so stiff. While it is known that fibrosis involves an increase in collagen, the amount of collagen alone does not…
Fascia and Primo Vascular System
In this review article, the authors explore the idea that the body's network of fascia may be the physical structure corresponding to acupuncture meridians in Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM). They also discuss the pr…
The fascial system and exercise intolerance in patients with chronic heart failure: hypothesis of osteopathic treatment
This hypothesis paper proposes a connection between the fascial system and exercise intolerance in people with chronic heart failure. The authors note that heart failure is a complex disease affecting the entire body, l…
Multi-frequency bioimpedance and myofascial release therapy: An equine “AtlasOrange1” validation study
This study on horses explored whether a device using multi-frequency bioimpedance analysis (mf-BIA) could objectively measure myofascial tension. Researchers compared the device's readings with a veterinarian's manual a…
Reflections on osteopathic fascia treatment in the peripheral nervous system
In this reflective article, the authors discuss the fascia of the peripheral nervous system. They explain that nerves are enclosed in several layers of fascia that must be able to slide, and that impeded sliding can be…
Hyaluronan’s Role in Fibrosis: A Pathogenic Factor or a Passive Player?
This 2015 review article explores the role of hyaluronan (HA) in fibrosis, a condition where excessive connective tissue buildup impairs organ function. HA is a key component of the extracellular matrix, known for its h…
Viscoelastic Properties of Hyaluronan in Physiological Conditions
Hyaluronan (HA) is a molecule that gives the fluid in our connective tissues its viscous, gel-like quality. This viscosity is crucial for the smooth gliding of fascial layers against muscles and other tissues. Factors l…
Duration and Magnitude of Myofascial Release in 3-Dimensional Bioengineered Tendons: Effects on Wound Healing
This laboratory study investigated how myofascial release (MFR) affects wound healing in bioengineered tendons. Researchers created a wound in the tendon models and then applied different magnitudes and durations of str…
Modeled Osteopathic Manipulative Treatments: A Review of Their in Vitro Effects on Fibroblast Tissue Preparations
This narrative review summarizes lab-based (in vitro) studies investigating how simulated osteopathic treatments, like myofascial release, affect fibroblasts. The authors found that applying mechanical strain to these c…
Modes of cancer cell invasion and the role of the microenvironment
For cancer to spread, or metastasize, tumor cells must first invade the surrounding connective tissue (stroma). This review article describes how cancer cells can move in different ways—either as single cells or in coll…
A multidisciplinary approach to scars: a narrative review
This narrative review examines complementary and alternative medicine approaches to treating scar tissue. The authors survey literature on osteopathy, naturopathy, and manual therapies like physiotherapy. They also disc…
An overview of the beneficial effects of hydrolysed collagen intake on joint and bone health and on skin ageing
This narrative review summarizes research on hydrolysed collagen (HC) and its impact on joint, bone, and skin health. Evidence suggests that these small collagen peptides are highly bioavailable and accumulate in connec…
Tracking CNS and systemic sources of oxidative stress during the course of chronic neuroinflammation
In this animal study, researchers used a mouse model for multiple sclerosis (MS) to track the sources of oxidative stress in the central nervous system. Using an advanced imaging technique, they identified specific immu…
The equine neck and its function during movement and locomotion
This study measured muscle activity in the equine forelimb during walking, trotting, and cantering. The researchers found that most muscles activate just before hoof-strike to stabilize the limb, while passive structure…
Isolated human uterine telocytes: immunocytochemistry and electrophysiology of T-type calcium channels
Telocytes are a relatively newly described cell type found in the muscular wall of the uterus, thought to play a role in cell-to-cell signaling. In this laboratory study, researchers examined telocytes from both pregnan…
Fibromyalgia: A Critical and Comprehensive Review
This comprehensive review discusses fibromyalgia as a complex disorder within a spectrum of medically unexplained syndromes. Characterized by widespread pain, fatigue, and sleep disturbances, it is often associated with…
Swing phase kinematics of horses trotting over poles
This study investigated how horses are affected by trotting over poles, a common therapeutic exercise used to restore joint range of motion. Researchers aimed to determine if lifting the limbs higher to clear obstacles…