Research.
Every peer-reviewed study on fascia in one place — graded for strength of evidence, summarised in plain language for clinicians, researchers, and curious readers.
We grade studies from A to 1A+++ using the Fascia Research Database rubric — 1A+++ is the strongest.
Researchers behind the studiesThe Osteopath's Imprint: Osteopathic Medicine Under the Nanoscopic Lens
This theoretical article explores the cellular effects of osteopathic manipulative treatment (OMT) from a new perspective. Traditionally, the benefits of OMT are explained through neurological, vascular, and other physi…
What's old is new again: The anatomical studies of Franklin P. Mall and the fascial-interstitial spaces
Franklin Mall was a pioneering anatomist at the turn of the 19th century whose work is being rediscovered in light of modern fascia research. He studied under Wilhelm His and Carl Ludwig, learning to integrate anatomy w…
The Effect of Craniosacral Therapy on Blood Levels of Stress Hormones in Male Firefighter Cadets: A Randomized Clinical Trial
This randomized clinical trial investigated the effect of craniosacral therapy on blood levels of the stress hormones cortisol and CRH in 57 male firefighter cadets. Participants were assigned to either a treatment grou…
Change in gliding properties of the iliotibial tract in hypermobile Ehlers–Danlos Syndrome
This study used ultrasonography to examine the gliding properties of the iliotibial tract (ITT) in individuals with hypermobile Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome (hEDS). Researchers found that the shear strain, which represents ho…
Functional organization of extracellular hyaluronan, CD44 and RHAMM
In this comprehensive review, the authors explore how hyaluronan (HA) and its receptors, CD44 and RHAMM, organize the space immediately surrounding cells. In healthy tissue, these components maintain a stable environmen…
Pain quality patterns in delayed onset muscle soreness of the lower back suggest sensitization of fascia rather than muscle aferents: a secondary analysis study
This study investigated whether delayed onset muscle soreness (DOMS) in the lower back originates from the muscles or the surrounding connective tissue (fascia). Researchers had participants perform fatiguing back exerc…
The Cognitive and Emotional Aspect in Fibromyalgia: The Importance of the Orofacial Sphere
This narrative review explores the link between fibromyalgia and issues in the orofacial region, such as temporomandibular joint (TMJ) disorders and periodontitis. The authors suggest that oral inflammation may contribu…
Interdisciplinarity and mechanobiology
Mechanobiology is an interdisciplinary field that studies how cells sense and respond to mechanical forces in their environment. In this article, pioneers Donald Ingber and Dino Di Carlo discuss how physical forces infl…
The deep fascia and its role in chronic pain and pathological conditions: A review
This narrative review explores the deep fascia, a three-dimensional continuum of connective tissue surrounding muscles, nerves, and blood vessels. The researchers identified five common conditions associated with fascia…
Evidence of Renin-Angiotensin System Receptors in Deep Fascia: A Role in Extracellular Matrix Remodeling and Fibrogenesis?
This study investigated the presence of renin-angiotensin system (RAS) components in the deep fascia, specifically the thoracolumbar fascia of the lower back. Researchers found that receptors for angiotensin II, particu…
Innervation of human superficial fascia
This study examined the superficial fascia, a thin layer of connective tissue within the skin's fat layer, to understand its nerve supply. Researchers found that this tissue is densely packed with nerves, particularly a…
Differential Sensitization of Muscle versus Fascia in Individuals with Low Back Pain
This clinical study investigated pain sensitivity in both muscle and deep fascia among individuals with low back pain compared to healthy controls. Using ultrasound-guided needling of the quadratus lumborum muscle and i…