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.
Ultrasound imaging of a scar on the knee: Sonopalpation for fascia and subcutaneous tissues
Persistent pain from surgical or trauma-related scars is a common and sometimes debilitating problem. In this article, the authors describe the use of ultrasound imaging to provide an objective diagnosis for debilitatin…
Sustained Cerebrovascular and Cognitive Benefits of Resveratrol in Postmenopausal Women
This randomized controlled trial investigated how daily resveratrol supplementation affects brain health in postmenopausal women over a 12-month period. Participants took either 75 mg of trans-resveratrol twice daily or…
Ageing of the diaphragm muscle
This narrative review explores how the diaphragm, our main breathing muscle, is affected by aging. Like other muscles, the diaphragm can weaken and lose mass over time, a condition known as sarcopenia. This age-related…
Whole body vibration in the static modified push-up position in untrained healthy women stimulates neuromuscular system potentiating increased handgrip myogenic response
This study investigated the acute effects of vibration on handgrip strength in untrained women. Participants placed their hands on a vibrating platform in a modified push-up position for five minutes. Researchers found…
Mechanical sensing protein PIEZO1 regulates bone homeostasis via osteoblast-osteoclast crosstalk
This study using mouse models investigates how the protein PIEZO1 acts as a mechanical sensor in the skeleton to regulate bone mass. Researchers found that a deficiency of PIEZO1 in bone-forming cells (osteoblasts) lead…
Cannabidiol (CBD): a killer for inflammatory rheumatoid arthritis synovial fibroblasts
This laboratory study investigated how cannabidiol (CBD) affects synovial fibroblasts, the cells responsible for joint destruction in rheumatoid arthritis. Researchers found that CBD can reduce the viability of these ce…
Integrating mental imagery and fascial tissue: A conceptualization for research into movement and cognition
This narrative review explores the connection between mental imagery and fascial tissue, a field that has historically focused on muscles and the nervous system. The authors propose that specific mental visualizations d…
What is the Intelligent Tissue !eory and How Does it Relate to Acupuncture?
This article introduces the "intelligent tissue theory," which proposes that organ information is transmitted via electromagnetic waves and interpreted by bodily tissues at specific meridians. The author suggests that t…
The Cranial Bowl in the New Millennium and Sutherland's Legacy for Osteopathic Medicine: Part 2
This narrative review, the second in a series, discusses how modern scientific research challenges some of the original concepts of cranial osteopathy. The authors examine the mechanical characteristics of cranial struc…
Muscle Cramps
Muscle cramps are involuntary, painful, and localized contractions of a muscle or muscle fibers, often felt as a palpable knot. While common in sports, their exact cause is not fully understood and likely depends on var…
A Potential Involvement of Anandamide in the Modulation of HO/NOS Systems: Women, Menopause, and "Medical Cannabinoids"
This animal study using an estrogen-deficient rat model investigated how the endocannabinoid anandamide (AEA) affects cardiovascular health during menopause-like conditions. Researchers found that estrogen loss reduced…
Evidence that Vitamin D Supplementation Could Reduce Risk of Influenza and COVID-19 Infections and Deaths
In this 2020 review article, the authors examine evidence that vitamin D could reduce the risk of respiratory tract infections, including influenza and COVID-19. They propose that vitamin D works through several mechani…
Low-intensity vibration restores nuclear YAP levels and acute YAP nuclear shuttling in mesenchymal stem cells subjected to simulated microgravity
Astronauts lose bone and muscle in space, partly because their cells become less responsive to mechanical forces. This study investigated if low-intensity vibration (LIV) could help counteract this effect in a lab setti…
Fasting-mimicking diet plus chemotherapy in breast cancer treatment
This clinical trial investigated whether a fasting-mimicking diet (FMD) combined with chemotherapy could improve outcomes for breast cancer patients. The overall results were negative, meaning the study did not find a s…
Evaluation of scapular mobilization and comparison to pectoralis minor stretching in individuals with rounded shoulder posture: A randomized controlled trial
This randomized controlled trial investigated treatments for rounded shoulder posture in 52 healthy students. Researchers compared the effects of scapular mobilization, pectoralis minor self-stretching, and a combinatio…
Lymphatic treatments after orthopedic surgery or injury: A systematic review
This systematic review examined the effectiveness of lymphatic and compression therapies for reducing swelling and pain after orthopedic surgery or injury. Researchers analyzed 15 studies, finding that for persistent sw…
Simulation and Modeling of Telocytes Behavior in Signaling and Intercellular Communication Processes
Telocytes are a unique type of interstitial cell with long extensions that form networks, thought to be involved in local tissue equilibrium and regeneration. In this study, researchers used computer simulation and math…
Applicability of Low-intensity Vibrations as a Regulatory Factor on Stem and Progenitor Cell Populations
This narrative review explores how mechanical forces, specifically low-intensity vibrations, can influence stem cells. While high-impact activities like running are known to build tissue, they are not suitable for every…
Role of fascial connectivity in musculoskeletal dysfunctions: A narrative review
This narrative review examines the concept of "fascial connectivity," which suggests that muscles and fascia are linked in functional chains throughout the body. The authors analyzed 35 studies, including cadaveric, ani…
Propolis-induced exclusion of colloids: Possible new mechanism of biological action
This laboratory study investigates how propolis (bee glue) interacts with water to create an exclusion zone (EZ)—a layer of water that repels solutes and microorganisms. The researchers found that surfaces coated with p…
PIEZO2: A Novel Molecule Involved in the Development of AIS
This case-control study investigated the potential link between the PIEZO2 gene, proprioception (the body's sense of position), and adolescent idiopathic scoliosis (AIS). Researchers found that AIS patients often exhibi…
Sympathetic activation: a potential link between comorbidities and COVID-19
In this perspective article, researchers propose a potential link between common comorbidities and severe COVID-19 outcomes. Conditions like heart disease, hypertension, and diabetes, which are risk factors for severe C…
Pilates exercise improves the clinical and immunological pro!les of patients with human T-cell lymphotropic virus 1 associated myelopathy: A pilot study
This pilot study investigated the effects of a 10-week Pilates program for eight patients with the chronic inflammatory disease HAM/TSP. After the exercise period, participants experienced significant improvements in pa…
The role of cannabinoids in the treatment of cancer
This review article summarizes current knowledge on how cannabinoids and their receptors modulate tumor diseases. Research suggests that cannabinoids may influence cancer progression by stimulating programmed cell death…
Anatomy, Head and Neck, Anterior Vagus Nerve
This article is an anatomical description of the anterior vagus nerve in the head and neck. As only the title is available, the content has not yet been summarized in detail. The title suggests the text provides an over…
Effects of vitamin C on oxidative stress, inflammation, muscle soreness, and strength following acute exercise: meta-analyses of randomized clinical trials
This meta-analysis compiled results from 18 randomized clinical trials to investigate the effects of vitamin C supplementation following a single bout of exercise. The researchers found that vitamin C reduced certain ma…
Establishment of a Novel Porcine Model to Study the Impact of Active Stretching on a Local Carrageenan-Induced Inflammation
This animal study used a novel porcine model to investigate how active stretching affects controlled inflammation in the connective tissue of the back. Researchers trained pigs to perform a specific stretch twice daily…
Mechanical stimulation of human dermal fibroblasts regulates pro-inflammatory cytokines: potential insight into soft tissue manual therapies
This lab study investigated how mechanical forces, similar to those in manual therapy, affect human skin cells. Researchers first applied a repetitive strain to cultured dermal fibroblasts to simulate an overuse injury,…
Quantitative analysis of gliding between subcutaneous tissue and the vastus lateralis - Influence of the dense connective tissue of the myofascia
This study investigated the relationship between the thickness of connective tissue layers and their ability to glide past one another. Using ultrasound, researchers observed the vastus lateralis muscle on the outer thi…
Long-term effects of resveratrol on cognition, cerebrovascular function and cardio-metabolic markers in postmenopausal women: A 24-month randomised, double-blind, placebo-controlled, crossover study
This 24-month randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled crossover study investigated the effects of daily resveratrol supplementation in 125 postmenopausal women. The researchers found that regular intake of 75 mg re…
The potential role of cannabinoids in dermatology
This literature review explores how cannabinoids, including both plant-derived and endogenous versions, may affect the skin through the endocannabinoid system. Research suggests that the skin possesses its own receptors…
A Hyaluronan-binding Peptide (P15-1) Reduces inflammatory and catabolic events in IL-1beta-treated human articular chondrocytes
Inflammation in osteoarthritis drives cartilage degradation. In this laboratory study, researchers investigated whether a peptide (P15-1) combined with hyaluronan (HA) could protect human cartilage cells in a simulated…
The link between vitamin D and COVID-19: distinguishing facts from fiction
This 2020 article, available only by title, appears to be a review or commentary on the relationship between vitamin D and COVID-19. The title, "The link between vitamin D and COVID-19: distinguishing facts from fiction…
Mesothelial Cells Covering the Surface of Primo Vascular System Tissue
In this study on rats, researchers investigated the cells on the outer surface of the primo vascular system (PVS), a proposed circulatory network. Using various microscopy and staining techniques, they identified these…
Virtual reality in the rehabilitation process for individuals with cerebral palsy and Down syndrome: A systematic review
This systematic review compiled research on virtual reality (VR) as a rehabilitation tool for children with cerebral palsy and Down syndrome. Researchers analyzed five high-quality studies and found that VR training, bo…
Diet as a Modulator of Intestinal Microbiota in Rheumatoid Arthritis
This narrative review explores how dietary patterns can influence the gut microbiota in individuals with rheumatoid arthritis (RA). Research indicates that RA patients often exhibit significant differences in their inte…
Endothelial mechanobiology
This narrative review explores how the cells lining our blood vessels, called endothelial cells, respond to the mechanical forces of blood flow. It describes two main patterns: smooth, pulsatile flow in straight vessels…
Effects of vibration therapy on neuromuscular efficiency & features of the EMG signal based on endurance test
This study investigated how vibration therapy at different frequencies (23 Hz and 35 Hz) affects forearm muscle performance and fatigue. Researchers used electromyography (EMG) to measure electrical activity in four for…
Embryology of the Fascial System
This review article explores how the fascial system develops in the human embryo, highlighting its role as a continuous network that integrates all body systems. The author describes how different types of fascia—includ…
Clinical characteristics of novel coronavirus cases in tertiary hospitals in Hubei Province
This retrospective study analyzed clinical data from 137 patients with the novel coronavirus (2019-nCoV) hospitalized in China's Hubei province during the initial outbreak. The most common initial symptoms were fever, c…
Endocannabinoids release after Osteopathic Manipulative Treatment. A brief review
This brief review examines how Osteopathic Manipulative Treatment (OMT) may influence the body's endocannabinoid system, which is crucial for pain regulation and emotional well-being. By analyzing existing research, the…
Tissue Micro-channels Formed by Collagen Fibers and their Internal Components: Cellular Evidence of Proposed Meridian Conduits in Vertebrate Skin
This study examined fascia from various vertebrate species using microscopy to search for physical structures that might correspond to the meridian conduits described in Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM). Researchers i…
Effects of resveratrol or estradiol on postexercise endothelial function in estrogen-deficient postmenopausal women
This randomized pilot study investigated how a single dose of resveratrol or estradiol affects endothelial function in postmenopausal women. The findings suggest that while both substances can improve the blood vessels'…
Movement Caused by Electrical Stimulation of the Lumbosacral Region in Standing Horses
This study investigated how electrical stimulation (ES) affects movement in the lower back and pelvis of standing horses compared to manual techniques. While both methods successfully triggered movement in the lumbosacr…
Therapeutic importance of hydrogen sulfide in age-associated neurodegenerative diseases
This narrative review explores the potential of molecular hydrogen (H2) as a preventive and therapeutic medical gas for various health conditions. H2 acts as a selective antioxidant, specifically targeting the most harm…
The immediate effect of IASTM vs. Vibration vs. Light Hand Massage on knee angle repositioning accuracy and hamstrings flexibility: A pilot study
This pilot study compared the immediate effects of three different soft tissue techniques on the hamstrings of 16 healthy men. The techniques were instrument-assisted soft tissue mobilization (IASTM), vibration massage,…
Gut Microbiota and Cardiovascular Disease
This review explores how the gut microbiota influences cardiovascular health through the production of specific metabolic byproducts. Research suggests that the link is not merely associative; certain bacterial metaboli…
Perspective: Vitamin D deficiency and COVID-19 severity –plausibly linked by latitude, ethnicity, impacts on cytokines,ACE2 and thrombosis
This narrative review explores the potential link between vitamin D deficiency and the severity of COVID-19. The authors observed that countries at higher latitudes, with less sun exposure, had higher COVID-19 mortality…
The Efficacy of Stretching Exercises on Arterial Stiffness in Middle-Aged and Older Adults: A Meta-Analysis of Randomized and Non-Randomized Controlled Trials
This meta-analysis reviewed eight studies involving 213 middle-aged and older adults to see how stretching affects arterial stiffness. The combined results suggest that regular stretching can significantly reduce arteri…
Neuromuscular activation analysis of the trunk muscles during hippotherapy sessions
This study investigated how hippotherapy (therapeutic horseback riding) affects trunk muscle activation in children. Researchers measured the activity of four key back and shoulder muscles during a 30-minute session, co…
The feasibility and impact of instrument-assisted manual therapy (IAMT) for the lower back on the structural and functional properties of the lumbar area in female soccer players: a randomised, placebo-controlled pilot study design
This is a protocol for a pilot study designed to investigate the feasibility and impact of instrument-assisted manual therapy (IAMT) for the lower back in female soccer players. The researchers plan to compare IAMT with…
The Structure and Role of Intramuscular Connective Tissue in Muscle Function
This narrative review analyzes the microscopic structure of intramuscular connective tissue—endomysium, perimysium, and epimysium—and its role in muscle function. Rather than acting simply as a container, this connectiv…
Ascorbate as Prophylaxis and Therapy for COVID-19—Update From Shanghai and U.S. Medical Institutions
This 2020 report describes how a medical panel in Shanghai evaluated the use of intravenous (IV) ascorbate, or vitamin C, for patients with severe COVID-19. The panel reviewed existing studies and preliminary data from…
A Novel Role of Ascorbic Acid in Anti-Inflammatory Pathway and ROS Generation in HEMA Treated Dental Pulp Stem Cells
Components from common dental resins can sometimes cause inflammation and oxidative stress in the cells of the dental pulp. This laboratory study investigated whether ascorbic acid (Vitamin C) could protect human dental…
Is the VITAMINS RCT indicating potential redundancy between corticosteroids and vitamin C?
Known only by its title, this article appears to be a commentary or analysis of a randomized controlled trial (RCT) known as VITAMINS. The title poses a question about whether there might be a "redundancy," or overlappi…
Overview of the possible role of vitamin C in management of COVID-19
In this 2020 review, the authors examine the possible role of vitamin C in managing COVID-19. They note that the body's vitamin C levels often drop during an acute infection due to increased metabolic demands. Because v…
Anatomy, Tendons
This is a placeholder for a summary of a publication titled "Anatomy, Tendons". The full text has not yet been reviewed by our team. Once summarized, this entry will provide an overview of the key anatomical features of…
An anatomical comparison of the fasciae of the thigh: A macroscopic, microscopic and ultrasound imaging study
Researchers compared the thigh's fascial layers using three methods: dissection of cadavers, microscopic analysis, and ultrasound imaging of living volunteers. They identified distinct layers, including a superficial fa…
Ankle Motion Is Associated With Soft Tissue Displacement in the Dorsal Thigh: An in vivo Investigation Suggesting Myofascial Force Transmission Across the Knee Joint
This study investigated how ankle motion affects tissue in the back of the thigh. Researchers passively stretched the calves of healthy participants lying prone with an extended knee. Using ultrasound, they observed tha…
Effects of Cesarean Section and Vaginal Delivery on Abdominal Muscles and Fasciae
This study used ultrasound to compare the abdominal muscles and fascia of women who had a C-section, a vaginal delivery, or had never given birth. Researchers found that both types of delivery were associated with chang…