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 studiesAnatomical 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…
The presence of physiological stress shielding in the degenerative cycle of musculoskeletal disorders
This theoretical paper discusses how mechanical stimulation is essential for tissue health, a concept known as mechanical homeostasis. When this process is flawed, it can contribute to the development of musculoskeletal…
Pandiculation: Nature’s way of maintaining the functional integrity of the myofascial system?
This paper explores the hypothesis that pandiculation—the involuntary stretching and yawning most animals do upon waking—serves a key role for the locomotor system. Beyond preparing the nervous system for wakefulness, t…
Exercise training reduces fibrosis and matrix metalloproteinase dysregulation in the aging rat heart
In this animal study, researchers investigated how exercise affects age-related fibrosis (scarring) in the rat heart. They found that aging was associated with an increase in collagen and a dysregulation of enzymes call…
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…
Reduced thoracolumbar fascia shear strain in human chronic low back pain
Researchers used ultrasound to investigate the movement between layers of the thoracolumbar fascia, a large sheet of connective tissue in the lower back. They compared a group of people with chronic low back pain to a g…
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…
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…
Acne vulgaris, probiotics and the gut-brain-skin axis - back to the future?
This review article discusses a theory first proposed over 70 years ago connecting the gastrointestinal tract, the brain, and the skin. Researchers Stokes and Pillsbury hypothesized that emotional states like anxiety an…
A questionnaire survey of UK physiotherapists on the diagnosis and management of contracted (frozen) shoulder
This survey of 289 UK physiotherapists explored how they diagnose and manage frozen shoulder. The results showed that diagnosis typically relies on assessing movement restriction, particularly passive external rotation.…
Adhesive capsulitis of the shoulder
This clinical overview describes adhesive capsulitis, or "frozen shoulder," a condition marked by painful, progressive loss of shoulder movement due to fibrosis of the joint capsule. The authors note that diagnosis requ…
Correlation of MR Arthrographic Findings and Range of Shoulder Motions in Patients With Frozen Shoulder
This study investigated the relationship between findings on MR arthrography (a type of MRI) and range of motion in people with frozen shoulder. Researchers measured the thickness of two structures: the coracohumeral li…