Fascia is a structure of connective tissue that surrounds muscles, blood vessels, nerves, connects structures to each other, also allows smooth gliding between tissues. It is made of tightly spaced bundles of collagen fibers oriented parallel to the direction of tension. The fibres are wavy, which ensures good flexibility and durability in the unilateral direction of the forces. Fasciae are similar in structure to ligaments and tendons in the body.
There are different systems for classifying fascia types. We will present one of them. According to it, there are three types of fascia: superficial, deep and visceral. The superficial one is located in the subcutaneous tissue in the reticular layer of the dermis. The deep fascia is the dense fibrous tissue surrounding the muscles, bones, nerves and blood vessels in the body. The visceral fascia is the sheath of the organs.
Fascia is like all soft tissues - it has a certain level of elasticity that allows it to resist deformation forces. As soon as the load ceases, it returns to its original shape. However, if the load acts for a long time, chronic deformation of the tissue occurs.
Fascia is one of the richest sensory organs in the body and plays a huge role in spatial perception , orientation and coordination. Regardless of the movement we make or the posture we take, the mechanoreceptors in it are activated and send signals to the brain.
Impaired fascia function can occur for a variety of reasons. These are: immobilization, inflammation,unbalanced nutrition, incorrect posture, physical or emotional trauma. The things listed have a direct effect on the fascia. It shortens and thickens, its ability to glide is reduced, which limits the spread and transmission of tension on the tissues. Thus, compensatory mechanisms arise that further damage the fascial system.
Problems in the function of the fascia is associated with pain, a feeling of stiffness, fatigue in the muscles.
Fascial therapy is a type of manual therapy that focuses on releasing the areas where a fascial problem is diagnosed. Through proper manipulation, gliding and movement in the affected area can be restored. Fascial therapy should be combined with various exercises and other soft tissue techniques to regain balance throughout the kinematic chain.
At Okto, we offer several time-honored methods of therapy for fascia problems:
