The Fascial System in Musculoskeletal Function and Myofascial Pain

Purpose of Review This article aims to discuss the structure and function of fascial systems and the potential role in myofascial pain syndromes. Recent Findings New terminology differentiates anatomic structure (fascia) and function (fascial system), improving the conceptual framework and communica...

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Bibliographic Details
Published in:Current physical medicine and rehabilitation reports 2020-12, Vol.8 (4), p.364-372
Main Authors: Ganjaei, Kimia Grace, Ray, Jeremiah W., Waite, Brandee, Burnham, Kevin J.
Format: Article
Language:English
Subjects:
Collagen
Connective tissue
Diabetes
Estrogens
Extracellular matrix
Fibroblasts
Hyaluronic acid
Medicine
Medicine & Public Health
Pain
Physiology
Polymers
Rehabilitation Medicine
Section Editors
Sports Medicine Rehabilitation (B Liem and BJ Krabak
Tendons
Terminology
Topical Collection on Sports Medicine Rehabilitation
Trauma
Viscoelasticity
Viscosity
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Summary:Purpose of Review This article aims to discuss the structure and function of fascial systems and the potential role in myofascial pain syndromes. Recent Findings New terminology differentiates anatomic structure (fascia) and function (fascial system), improving the conceptual framework and communication. Fascia has been shown to be innervated and biologically active and may have roles in nociception, proprioception, and myofascial force transmission. A number of factors may modify the function of fascial tissues through altering stiffness. A new cell type, “fasciacytes,” produces hyaluronic acid, a molecule critical to fascial lubrication. Fascial contribution to myofascial pain syndromes remains unclear, though plausible mechanisms connect them, and direct evidence of fascia-mediated pain exists. Current evidence is limited to support fascia-directed therapies for myofascial pain syndromes. Summary Developing evidence implicates fascial tissue in musculoskeletal function and myofascial pain syndromes. Further investigation into fascial physiology and pathophysiology is needed to translate this knowledge into clinical care.
ISSN:2167-4833
2167-4833
DOI:10.1007/s40141-020-00302-3