Fascia (also called connective tissue) is a tissue system of the body to which relatively little attention has been given in the past.  Fascia is composed of two types of fibres:

• (a) collagen fibres which are very strong and have little stretch
• (b) elastin fibres which do stretch

Fascia is very densely woven connective tissue that has an appearance similar to a spider's web.  This covers and interpenetrates every muscle, bone, nerve, artery and vein, as well as all of our internal organs including the heart, lungs, brain and spinal cord.  The most interesting aspect of the fascial system is that it is not just a system of separate coverings; it is actually one structure that exists from head to toe without interruption.  In this way, you can begin to see that each part of the entire body is connected to every other part by the fascia like the yarn in a sweater.

Fascia also plays an extremely important role in the support of our bodies, since it surrounds and attaches to all structures.  These structures would not be able to provide the stability without the constant pull of the fascial system.  In fact, our bones can be thought of as tent poles, which cannot support the structure without the constant support of the guide wires (or fascia) to keep an adequate amount of tension to allow the tent (or body) to remain upright with proper equilibrium. 

In the normal healthy state, the fascia is relaxed and wavy in configuration.  It has the ability to stretch and move without restriction.  When we experience physical trauma, scarring, or inflammation, the fascia loses its pliability.  It becomes tight, restricted and a source of tension to the rest of the body.  Trauma, such as a fall, whiplash, surgery or just habitual poor posture over time as well as repetitive strain injuries has a cumulative effect.  The changes they cause in the fascial system influence comfort and the functioning of the body.  The fascia can exert excessive pressure producing pain or restriction of motion.  They affect our flexibility and stability, and are a determining factor in our ability to withstand stress and strain. 

Because fascia permeates all regions of the body and is all interconnected, when it scars and hardens in one area following injury, inflammation, disease, surgery, emotional trauma, etc. it can put tension on adjacent pain sensitive structures as well as on structures in far away areas.  Some clients have bizarre pain symptoms that appear to be unrelated to the original or primary complaint.  These symptoms can be understood in terms of the fascial system.