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 studiesFibroblast cytoskeletal remodeling contributes to connective tissue tension
The mechanical properties of connective tissue, such as its elasticity and resistance, have traditionally been attributed to its non-cellular matrix. This study investigated the role of fibroblasts, the cells residing w…
A questionnaire survey of UK physiotherapists on the diagnosis and management of contracted (frozen) shoulder
This survey of 289 UK physiotherapists explored how they diagnose and manage frozen shoulder. The results showed that diagnosis typically relies on assessing movement restriction, particularly passive external rotation.…
Sensory Innervation of the Thoracolumbar Fascia in Rats and Humans
This study investigated the nerve supply of the thoracolumbar fascia (TLF), the connective tissue of the low back, in both rats and humans. Researchers found that the fascia is richly innervated with sensory nerves, but…
Anatomical Connection Between the Rectus Capitis Posterior Major and the Dura Mater
In this anatomical study, researchers dissected 13 cadavers to investigate a connection between a deep neck muscle and the dura mater, the protective covering of the spinal cord. In 11 of the 13 specimens, they found a…
Pandiculation: Nature’s way of maintaining the functional integrity of the myofascial system?
This paper explores the hypothesis that pandiculation—the involuntary stretching and yawning most animals do upon waking—serves a key role for the locomotor system. Beyond preparing the nervous system for wakefulness, t…
Assessing the influence of FDM to the postoperative healing processes in distal fracture of the radius
Researchers investigated if the Fascial Distortion Model (FDM) could improve recovery following surgery for a common wrist fracture. In this study, 65 patients were divided into two groups; one received standard rehabil…
Correlations Between Fasciology and Yin Yang Doctrine
This theoretical paper explores correlations between "fasciology," a model based on 3D reconstruction of connective tissue, and the traditional Chinese doctrine of yin and yang. According to fasciology, the body can be…
Elevated [11C]-D-Deprenyl Uptake in Chronic Whiplash Associated Disorder Suggests Persistent Musculoskeletal Inflammation
Diagnosing chronic whiplash-associated disorder (WAD) is often difficult, as standard structural imaging methods seldom show clear signs of injury. This study used Positron Emission Tomography (PET) with a tracer molecu…
Hyaluronan as an Immune Regulator in Human Diseases
This 2011 narrative review explores the role of hyaluronan (HA) in the immune system. While intact HA is a normal part of the extracellular matrix, fragments of HA produced during tissue injury can act as signals. These…
Dynamic fascial release and the role of mechanical/vibrational assist devices in manual therapies
This review article explores the use of mechanical vibration devices in manual therapy. The author examines several such tools, including percussion vibrators, vibrational platforms, and deep tissue oscillation. The art…
Exercise training reduces fibrosis and matrix metalloproteinase dysregulation in the aging rat heart
In this animal study, researchers investigated how exercise affects age-related fibrosis (scarring) in the rat heart. They found that aging was associated with an increase in collagen and a dysregulation of enzymes call…
Hyaluronan: From Extracellular Glue to Pericellular Cue
Hyaluronan is traditionally seen as a biological 'goo' that lubricates joints and holds connective tissues together. This review describes how hyaluronan also functions as an important signaling molecule, or cue, in the…