What is Fascia?

Fascia, a connective tissue that surrounds every muscle, bone and organ is a hot topic amongst manual therapists such as chiropractors, physiotherapists and massage therapists.

Fascia has a web-like consistency and it runs throughout the entire body in what is referred to as myofascial lines. Some of these myofascial lines are long and some are short. They can also be superficial or deep.

Fascia is a white, glistening fibre that is quite strong. It is composed of elastin, collagen and a gelatinous substance made up primarily of water that transports metabolic material throughout the body.

What does Fascia do?

Fascia creates a separation between organs, muscles and bones allowing them to slide easily with movement. Because fascia is stiff, it resists overstretching and acts like an anatomical emergency brake. Trauma, repetitive motion, inflammation and poor posture can cause the fascia to solidify, shorten and become “fuzzy”. This is what is referred to as fascia restriction and it can result in pain and dysfunction.

When there is a restriction of this nature in one area of the body, it can create tension along the myofascial lines and this explains why some people experience pain in a location unrelated to its origin. So far, scientists have discovered 11 myofascial lines.

Facial restrictions, which can create up to 2,000 pounds of pressure per square inch, can pull the body out of its normal alignment, compressing joint surfaces or bulging discs.

Myofascial restrictions do not show up on common standardized tests, X-rays or MRIs.

How to care for your fascia?

• Move it or lose it. In the morning take some time to stretch head-to-toe.

• Stretch your fascia gently. Work in slower and gentle cycles, contracting and stretching. Hold each exercise for a few minutes.

• Stay hydrated. Fascia moves better when wet, so drink lots of water.

• See a movement education therapist.

As a Pilates instructor, I work with fascia lines on a daily basis. By understanding how fascia impacts body movement, I can assist you in resolving sources of restriction. Slow, gentle and mindful exercise is critical to creating more “space” in the body which in turn allows it to move freely with less pain.