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 studies- A2011
Anatomical Connection Between the Rectus Capitis Posterior Major and the Dura Mater
Frank Scali, Eric S Marsili, Matthew E PontellIn 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…
fasciacervical spineposterior atlantoaxial interspacerectus capitis posterior majorspinal dura - A2011
Hyaluronan as an Immune Regulator in Human Diseases
Paul W Noble, Jiurong Liang, Dianhua JiangThis 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…
hyaluronanfascia - A2011
The extracellular matrix: an active or passive player in fibrosis?
T N Wight, S Potter-PerigoFibrosis, the excessive buildup of scar tissue, can be understood as a wound healing process that has gone awry. Normally, specialized cells called myofibroblasts help repair tissue and then disappear, but in fibrosis,…
fasciaprovisional extracellular matrixmyofibroblatcollagenhyaluronan proteoglycans - A2011
Hyaluronan: From Extracellular Glue to Pericellular Cue
B P TooleHyaluronan 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…
hyaluronanfasciasignal transductioncancer - A2011
Fascia and the mechanism of acupuncture
Steven Finando, Donna FinandoThis theoretical paper re-evaluates the mechanisms of acupuncture. The authors propose that fascia, the body's connective tissue network, is the structure that explains how acupuncture works. They argue for this model b…
fasciaacupunctureShamPlaceboMechanism - A2011
Fibroblasts and Myofibroblasts: What are we talking about?
Jennifer Baum, Heather S DuffyThis 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…
fasciafibroblastMyofibroblast - A2011
ExtracellularMatrix Degradation and Remodeling in Development and Disease
Pengfei Lu, Ken Takai, Valerie M Weaver, Zena WerbIn 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…
fasciaextracellular matrixmatrix remodeling - A2011
Chronic Disease: Are We Missing Something?
James L OschmanThis 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…
fasciachronic diseaseearthing - A2011
Remodeling and homeostasis of the extracellular matrix: implications for fibrotic diseases and cancer
Thomas R Cox, Janine T ErlerIn this perspective article, the authors discuss how the extracellular matrix (ECM) is constantly being remodeled, a process essential for normal bodily functions like wound healing and tissue maintenance. When this rem…
fasciaextracellular matrixcancerfibrosisstiffness - A2011
Sensory Innervation of the Nonspecialized Connective Tissues in the Low Back of the Rat
Sarah M Corey, Margaret A Vizzard, Gary J Badger, Helene M LangevinIn this animal study, researchers investigated the sensory nerves in the nonspecialized connective tissue of the rat low back, an area where knowledge is limited. Using 3D reconstruction and dye-labeling techniques, the…
fasciaConnective tissueinnervationlow back painmusculoskeletal pain - A2011
Dynamic fascial release and the role of mechanical/vibrational assist devices in manual therapies
Zachary ComeauxThis 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…
fasciaConnective tissuevibrationpercussion vibrationtonic vibratory reflex - A2011
Elevated [11C]-D-Deprenyl Uptake in Chronic Whiplash Associated Disorder Suggests Persistent Musculoskeletal Inflammation
Clas Linnman, Lieuwe Appel, Mats Fredrikson, Torsten Gordh, Anne Söderlund, Bengt Långström, Henry EnglerDiagnosing 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…
inflammationfasciaWhiplash
