Fascia is essentially all of the connective tissue in the body. It is a tough covering, much like a sausage casing, that surrounds every muscle. It forms a vast supporting network found throughout the body and is continuous from head to toe It is the white in the picture shown here. The tendons that join the muscle to the bone, the joint capsules and the ligaments are all fascia. Scar tissue and adhesions occur within the fascia; these areas are typically more restricted and disorganized.

In some places the fascia is thinner than nylon pantyhose, but in other places, such as the Iliotibial band on the outside of the leg, it can be much thicker. Fascia is extremely strong.

Why is Fascia Important?

Fascia thickens and hardens where there is chronic tension. Chronic tension can then lead to joint restrictions, movement impairments, pain, decreased performance and/or cramping and twitching.  Manual physicians (ie. Chiropractors, Physical Therapists, Osteopaths, Accupuncturists and other non-physicians) effect the fascial 'networks' in a variety of ways, either directly or indirectly. 

Like a coiled telephone cord, fascia holds imprints of our posture and old injuries. Thus, the fascia dictates our shape and freedom of movement. All the nerves and blood vessels run through the fascia. (See photos at right and below.) Therefore, if the connective tissue is tight, the associated tissues will have poor nutrient exchange. This exacerbates any painful situation because toxic metabolic waste products build up which will further aggravate pain receptors. This creates a vicious cycle by creating more muscle tension, leading to further thickening and hardening of the fascia, which will further limit mobility and performance!