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 studiesImmediate effects of self-myofascial release on latent trigger point sensitivity: a randomized, placebo-controlled trial
This randomized, placebo-controlled trial examined whether foam rolling could immediately reduce sensitivity in latent trigger points. Researchers compared 90 seconds of static compression, dynamic rolling, and a placeb…
Sweet, yet underappreciated: Proteoglycans and extracellular matrix remodeling in heart disease
In this review article, the authors discuss the role of proteoglycans in heart disease. Remodeling of the heart's extracellular matrix, which is common in several cardiac diseases, can lead to fibrosis and impaired func…
The myodural bridges’ existence in the sperm whale
In this anatomical animal study, researchers examined tissue from a sperm whale to see if it possessed a myodural bridge, a connection between the neck muscles and the dura mater previously identified in humans. The inv…
A review of the impact of pregnancy and childbirth on pelvic floor function as assessed by objective measurement techniques
This narrative review examines how pregnancy and childbirth affect the pelvic floor, based on studies using objective measurement tools like ultrasound and MRI. The authors found that pregnancy, particularly the first,…
What Is the Point? The Problem with Acupuncture Research That No One Wants to Talk About
In this 2018 commentary, the authors address a persistent criticism of acupuncture research: the unclear scientific basis for "acupuncture points." They argue that the acupuncture research community has not paid enough…
Biomechanical findings in horses showing asymmetrical vertical excursions of the withers at walk
This study investigated movement patterns in seven sound high-level dressage horses to understand why the withers move asymmetrically at a walk. Researchers found that vertical asymmetry in the withers was not caused by…
The influence of breathing on the central nervous system
This narrative review explores the diaphragm's extensive influence on the central nervous system. The authors discuss how the rhythm of our breath can physically move the brain, alter patterns of neural oscillation, and…
The infrapatellar fat pad and the synovial membrane: an anatomo-functional unit
This descriptive review summarizes evidence on the close relationship between the infrapatellar fat pad and the synovial membrane in the knee. Anatomically, they are linked, as parts of the synovial membrane insert into…
Elevated expression of hyaluronan synthase 2 associates with decreased survival in diffusely infiltrating astrocytomas
Astrocytomas are the most common type of brain tumor in adults. In this retrospective study, researchers investigated hyaluronan, a key component of the brain's extracellular matrix, and its related enzymes in 163 tumor…
Low intensity vibration increases cartilage thickness in obese mice
This animal study investigated if a high-fat diet affected cartilage thickness in mice and if low-intensity vibration (LIV) could offer protection. Contrary to expectations, the high-fat diet alone did not significantly…
Biotensegrity and myofascial chains: A global approach to an integrated kinetic chain
This theoretical paper proposes a holistic way to understand human movement, contrasting it with the traditional approach of studying body parts in isolation. The authors suggest a model based on "biotensegrity," where…
Chest pain in patients with COPD: the fascia’s subtle silence
In this article, the authors discuss potential causes of chest pain in patients with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). They highlight that chest pain is common in COPD and propose that an often-overlooked so…