You have been injured or are complaining of chronic pain to your doctor or therapist. As they try to discuss your case with you, one of the medical terms you will definitely be hearing is “fascia”. Fascia is found almost everywhere in your body. Read on to better understand more about it so you can actively participate in coming up with the best plan of management that suits you.
Fascia is a densely woven fibrous tissue, mostly made up of collagen, which covers and permeates every muscle, bone, blood vessel and all internal organs of the body. It is one continuous structure that runs the entire length of the body without any interruption.
There are three layers of fascia:
1.Superficial Fascia
The superficial fascia is found just underneath the skin and serves as a protective padding to provide a cushioning effect and insulation to the deeper vital organs. It also acts as a depository or storage of fat and water.
The superficial fascia is viscoelastic, meaning it can expand to accommodate water and adipose tissue or fats but can easily revert to its original shape and dimensions when the excess water and fats have dissipated.
2.Deep Fascia
The deep fascia is a tough and fibrous tissue that envelope and goes through the muscles, bones, nerves and blood vessels of the body. It is sensitive as it is full of nerve ending receptors that signal the presence of pain.
Since this layer of fascia is generally the source of pain and limitations in range of motion, most therapists work on this layer of fascia with techniques like deep tissue massage or myofascial release.
A very effective technique that has been proven by so many users to bring about positive results is the FasciaBlaster. It is a self-massage tool anyone could easily use at home to relieve symptoms of muscle and fascial tension and tightness. In addition, it can reduce the skin-dimpling appearance of cellulite.
3.Visceral or Subserous Fascia
The visceral fascia is the deepest layer of fascia that holds the internal organs in their body cavities.
Depending on its depth and location, fascia has numerous functions such as:
- it aids in maintaining the shape or structural integrity of the body by holding the bones and muscles together and keeping them in their appropriate places
- it provides a lubricated surface for the muscles to move against each other in a smooth and friction-free manner
- it plays a major role in mobility as it separates the muscles to be able to move and work independently of each other
- it provides support to the internal body structures by keeping them in place
- it protects the vital organs from injury or trauma by acting as the body’s shock absorber
- it provides the pathway by which cells communicate with each other
- it creates a barrier against pathogens and infection
- it creates an environment conducive to tissue repair after an injury
When being given options with regard to your own management plan it helps to have some knowledge about what is involved to be able to decide in the best possible way.