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 studiesGlycine improves biochemical and biomechanical properties following inflammation of the achilles tendon
This animal study investigated the effect of the amino acid glycine on inflamed Achilles tendons in rats. Researchers induced inflammation and then fed one group of rats a diet supplemented with 5% glycine. After 22 day…
New Developments in the Primo Vascular System: Imaging and Functions with regard to Acupuncture
This research entry, for which only the title is available, appears to discuss recent advancements in understanding the primo vascular system. The title suggests a focus on new imaging techniques and the system's functi…
Cytokines in rheumatoid arthritis - shaping the immunological landscape
In this short opinion article, the authors provide an overview of the central role of cytokines in rheumatoid arthritis (RA). These signaling molecules are involved in the immune responses associated with both the onset…
Essential Experimental Methods for Identifying Bonghan Systems as a Basis for Korean Medicine: Focusing on Visual Materials from Original Papers and Modern Outcomes
This narrative review examines methods for identifying the so-called Bonghan system, also known as the primo vascular system (PVS). This system was originally proposed in the 1960s as the anatomical basis for acupunctur…
A unifying neuro-fasciagenic model of somatic dysfunction - Underlying mechanisms and treatment - Part II
This review paper proposes a new, unifying "neuro-fasciagenic" model for understanding somatic dysfunction. The author argues for a shift in perspective, moving from a purely neurological explanation to one where fascia…
Myofascial Trigger Points Then and Now: A Historical and Scientific Perspective
This narrative review explores the historical and scientific understanding of myofascial trigger points (MTrPs) and their role in myofascial pain syndrome (MPS). MTrPs are palpable nodules in taut muscle bands, long con…
The equine neck and its function during movement and locomotion
This study measured muscle activity in the equine forelimb during walking, trotting, and cantering. The researchers found that most muscles activate just before hoof-strike to stabilize the limb, while passive structure…
Telocytes in regenerative medicine
This 2015 review article summarizes research on telocytes, a distinct type of cell found in the connective tissue of many organs. These cells form a complex 3D network and are thought to play a key role in guiding stem…
Investigation of meningomyovertebral structures within the upper cervical epidural space: a sheet plastination study with clinical implications
This cadaver study investigated soft-tissue connections within the epidural space of the upper cervical spine using dissection and a technique called sheet plastination. The researchers found consistent connections wher…
Collagen Crosslinking Does Not Dictate Stiffness in a Transgenic Mouse Model of Skeletal Muscle Fibrosis
In this animal study on mice, researchers investigated why fibrotic, or scarred, skeletal muscle becomes so stiff. While it is known that fibrosis involves an increase in collagen, the amount of collagen alone does not…
Sensory Nerve Fibers Containing Calcitonin Gene-Related Peptide in Gastrocnemius, Latissimus Dorsi and Erector Spinae Muscles and Thoracolumbar Fascia in Mice
In this animal study, researchers investigated sensory nerve fibers containing CGRP, a peptide involved in pain signaling. They compared the presence of these nerve fibers in various muscles (gastrocnemius, latissimus d…
Electron microscopy of human fascia lata: focus on telocytes
This study used an electron microscope to examine the types of cells present in the fascia lata, a sheet of connective tissue in the thigh. For the first time, researchers confirmed the existence of a specific cell type…