Fascia - What IS the deal?

Fascia

Fascia is a connective tissue that wraps around muscles, organs, and other parts of the body, helping them work together smoothly. Each fascial sac in which we are contained is unique to each individual. It can respond to physical stress and injuries by generating tiny electrical signals. This process is part of how the body converts physical forces into signals that cells can understand. Fascia also has many nerve endings, which help transmit electrical signals through the body.

This is part of a broader phenomenon known as mechanotransduction, where mechanical forces are converted into biochemical signals within the body. Additionally, fascia is innervated and has a rich supply of nerve endings, which can also contribute to the transmission of electrical signals.

Fibroblasts are cells within fascia that can react to physical stress or injury by creating these tiny electrical signals. Mitochondria within fibroblasts play a part in each cell's chemical metabolism. They convert oxygen and cellular nutrients into energy in the form of ATP, a source of energy for use and storage at the cellular level, which can be mobile and directed to areas within the cell that need more energy. Additionally, some believe these mitochondria influence the cellular environment in which they are contained.

Fascia is, for the most part, liquid crystals. Fascia exists somewhere between a liquid and a solid. These crystals align as a collective, and when energy is introduced into this environment, the liquid crystals can change. Fascia is deemed to be piezoelectric, meaning it can generate an electrical charge in response to mechanical stress. The collagen fibers in fascia can generate this electrical charge when mechanically deformed.

One of the most prominent components of fascia is hyaluronic acid (HA). Hyaluronic acid has the ability to retain up to 1,000 times its weight in water. This water is "structured" and exists somewhere between a liquid and a solid. HA provides lubrication between layers of fascia throughout the body. This gliding and shearing ability is integral to proper muscle and tissue functioning. HA contributes to the viscoelasticity of fascia, enabling it to be stretched and returned to its original shape. It is also important in cell migration, which is key in injury and tissue repair. HA also has wonderful anti-inflammatory properties that modulate the inflammatory response during the healing process. This lubricating substance is very important in any body movement.

Movement is medicine. Movement is necessary to release HA and bring more water to the cells and nervous system. Hydration is paramount for proper function. This "structured water" content is increased by gentle movement. Additionally, increased nasal breathing can enhance hydration throughout the body. And it should go without saying that increased water consumption throughout the day would be beneficial for most people who get on my table.

As you can see, the state of your fascia plays a big part in many complex processes the nervous system engages in every day. When was the last time you checked up on your fascia?