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 studiesFascia Research from a Clinician/Scientist’s Perspective
In this perspective piece, a clinician-scientist summarizes exciting areas in fascia research. The article describes the fascial network as a body-wide system that connects individual cells and shares loads with muscles…
Hyaluronan within fascia in the etiology of myofascial pain
In this cadaver and ultrasound study, researchers examined the composition of deep fascia. They identified layers of hyaluronan (HA), a lubricating substance, between the fascia and muscle, as well as between the fascia…
Sensory Innervation of the Nonspecialized Connective Tissues in the Low Back of the Rat
In 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…
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…
The extracellular matrix: an active or passive player in fibrosis?
Fibrosis, 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,…
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…
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…
Fascia and the mechanism of acupuncture
This 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…
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…
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…
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…
Remodeling and homeostasis of the extracellular matrix: implications for fibrotic diseases and cancer
In 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…