Fascia is a connective tissue that surrounds and supports muscles, bones, and organs throughout the body. It is a web-like network of fibrous tissue that extends from head to toe, forming a continuous and interconnected system that provides structure, stability, and support to the body. Fascia also plays an important role in transmitting forces and energy between different parts of the body.
Fascia is made up of collagen and elastic fibers and ground substance (extra cellular matrix). It also contains a variety of cells, including fibroblasts, which produce and maintain the collagen fibers, and immune cells, which help protect the body against infection and disease.
Fascia can be divided into three main layers: the superficial fascia, which lies just beneath the skin and contains fat and blood vessels; the deep fascia, which surrounds muscles and other internal organs; and the visceral fascia, which surrounds individual organs and helps to anchor them in place.
While fascia is often thought of as a passive tissue, recent research has shown that it is a highly dynamic and responsive system that can adapt and change in response to physical activity, injury, and other stimuli. Dysfunction or restriction of fascia can lead to pain, stiffness, and a variety of other symptoms, which is why myofascial release and other fascial therapies have become increasingly popular in recent years.
