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 studiesHigh and Low Molecular Weight Hyaluronic Acid Differentially Regulate Human Fibrocyte Differentiation
Following tissue injury, immune cells called monocytes can differentiate into fibrocytes, a cell type involved in healing and fibrosis. This study investigated how different sizes of hyaluronic acid (HA) affect this pro…
Chronic Disease: Are We Missing Something?
This 2011 editorial by James L. Oschman poses a question in its title: "Chronic Disease: Are We Missing Something?". Without an abstract or full text available for summary, the specific perspective or argument presented…
ExtracellularMatrix Degradation and Remodeling in Development and Disease
In this review, the authors describe the extracellular matrix (ECM) as a dynamic structure that is constantly being remodeled. This process of breakdown and rebuilding is essential for normal bodily functions like tissu…
Structure and function of the skeletal muscle extracellular matrix
This narrative review explores the extracellular matrix (ECM), the connective tissue network within skeletal muscle. The authors describe the ECM's crucial roles in transmitting force and in muscle maintenance and repai…
Fibroblasts and Myofibroblasts: What are we talking about?
This 2011 narrative review explores the roles of fibroblasts and myofibroblasts, two key cell types in the heart's connective tissue. Once considered static, research indicates these cells are dynamic and play an active…
Fluorescent Nanoparticles for Observing Primo Vascular System Along Sciatic Nerve
In this animal study, researchers injected fluorescent nanoparticles into rats at an acupuncture point to trace their path. The particles traveled along the sciatic nerve, revealing a previously hard-to-detect structure…
Comparison of Trunk Proprioception Between Patients With Low Back Pain and Healthy Controls
In this case-control study, researchers compared trunk proprioception, or the sense of body position and movement, between 24 patients with non-specific low back pain and 24 healthy controls. Participants' ability to se…
Transcapillary exchange: role and importance of the interstitial fluid pressure and the extracellular matrix
This narrative review discusses how the extracellular matrix (ECM) and the pressure of its fluid (interstitial fluid pressure, or Pif) regulate fluid exchange with capillaries. Conventionally, this pressure is seen as a…
Role of Matrix-Rhythm-Therapy in the treatment of non-traumatic restricted movements of shoulder
This study investigated the effectiveness of Matrix-Rhythm-Therapy (MRT) for treating shoulder pain and stiffness not caused by injury. Forty patients received one hour of MRT weekly for three weeks, combined with daily…
Possible Applications for Fascial Anatomy and Fasciaology in Traditional Chinese Medicine
This theoretical paper proposes a new framework for understanding anatomy, called "fascial anatomy," and a new field of study, "fasciaology." The authors suggest that the body's fascial network may be the anatomical bas…
The role and mechanical behavior of the connective tissue in tendon sliding
Based on 215 in-vivo dissections, this study challenges the traditional understanding of how tendons slide. The authors propose that tendon movement is not simple gliding, but rather occurs within a complex, adaptable c…
3D reconstruction of the crural and thoracolumbar fasciae
Researchers created detailed 3D computer models to visualize the structure of the crural fascia in the lower leg and the superficial layer of the thoracolumbar fascia in the lower back. They found the crural fascia is c…