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 studiesSensitivity of the Fasciae to the Endocannabinoid System: Production of Hyaluronan-Rich Vesicles and Potential Peripheral Effects of Cannabinoids in Fascial Tissue
This laboratory study investigated how fascial cells respond to cannabinoids. Researchers isolated fibroblast cells from human fascia lata and treated them with a substance that activates cannabinoid receptor 2. The tre…
Ultrasound imaging of a scar on the knee: Sonopalpation for fascia and subcutaneous tissues
Persistent pain from surgical or trauma-related scars is a common and sometimes debilitating problem. In this article, the authors describe the use of ultrasound imaging to provide an objective diagnosis for debilitatin…
Evidence that Vitamin D Supplementation Could Reduce Risk of Influenza and COVID-19 Infections and Deaths
In this 2020 review article, the authors examine evidence that vitamin D could reduce the risk of respiratory tract infections, including influenza and COVID-19. They propose that vitamin D works through several mechani…
Evaluation of scapular mobilization and comparison to pectoralis minor stretching in individuals with rounded shoulder posture: A randomized controlled trial
This randomized controlled trial investigated treatments for rounded shoulder posture in 52 healthy students. Researchers compared the effects of scapular mobilization, pectoralis minor self-stretching, and a combinatio…
Mechanical stimulation of human dermal fibroblasts regulates pro-inflammatory cytokines: potential insight into soft tissue manual therapies
This lab study investigated how mechanical forces, similar to those in manual therapy, affect human skin cells. Researchers first applied a repetitive strain to cultured dermal fibroblasts to simulate an overuse injury,…
Recent advances in the anti-aging effects of phytoestrogens on collagen, water content, and oxidative stress
This narrative review examines how phytoestrogens, plant-derived compounds that mimic human estrogen, may influence skin aging processes. Research suggests these molecules can help counteract the decline in collagen and…
Virtual reality in the rehabilitation process for individuals with cerebral palsy and Down syndrome: A systematic review
This systematic review compiled research on virtual reality (VR) as a rehabilitation tool for children with cerebral palsy and Down syndrome. Researchers analyzed five high-quality studies and found that VR training, bo…
Ultrasound Imaging of the Fascial Layers
This publication, for which a full summary is not yet available, appears to discuss using ultrasound to visualize the body's fascial layers. Ultrasound imaging is a non-invasive technique that provides real-time views o…
Effect of breakfast on weight and energy intake: systematic review and meta-analysis of randomised controlled trials
This systematic review and meta-analysis examined whether regular breakfast consumption affects body weight and energy intake in adults from high-income countries. The findings suggest that individuals who skipped break…
Active Contractile Properties of Fascia
This narrative review explores how fascia, often seen as a passive tissue, can actively contract. Researchers point to the presence of cells called myofibroblasts within the fascia, which give it the ability to change i…
Glut-1 explains the evolutionary advantage of the loss of endogenous vitamin C-synthesis
Unlike many animals, humans cannot produce their own vitamin C. This study explores a potential evolutionary advantage of this loss. Researchers compared red blood cells from humans and pigs (who can make vitamin C) and…
Fascial neuromodulation: an emerging concept linking acupuncture, fasciology, osteopathy and neuroscience
This conceptual paper presents a model called "fascial neuromodulation" to explain how therapies like acupuncture might work. The author suggests that mechanical signals through the fascial network can influence the ner…
