What is Fascia and How is it related to body pain?

What is fascia?

Fascia word originates from the Latin word fascia, which originally meant band, ribbon, or strip. It referred to something that binds or encircles something like a sash or bandage. And that is what is does inside our bodies it wraps around our nervous system bones, muscles and other tissues to provide easy and smooth movements. When fascia is overlooked it tugs on to other connective tissues or muscles causing pain.

Where is Fascia in our body and What does it do?

• It's Everywhere: Fascia isn't just one layer; it comes in different types. Some is superficial, wrapping muscles. Some is deep, connecting bones and muscles. And some is visceral, surrounding your organs.
• It's More Than Just Support: Fascia isn’t just about holding things in place. It plays a critical role in:
• Movement: It guides how muscles work together, impacting your posture and range of motion.
• Proprioception: This is your sense of where your body is in space. Fascia is loaded with nerves that send signals to your brain about your body's position and movement.
• Fluid Movement: It allows for the easy movement of blood, lymph (your body’s detox system), and nutrients.
• Protection: It cushions and protects your muscles and organs.

When fascia is too tight or broken due to injury it leads to all sort of muscle imbalances inducing pain.

Why is Fascia gaining importance?

Novice like me stumbled upon concept of fascia when I got ankle pain during covid lockdown. With limited medical support available during that time i researched and found this. Personally I found foam roller funny but now I stand by it and all other yoga, Pilates and deep muscle stretches. As I discovered it I am sure many others did too but there are various reasons that its gaining traction.

• Restrictions & Pain: When fascia becomes tight, stiff, or inflamed (often due to injury, poor posture, repetitive movements, or stress), it can restrict movement, cause pain, and contribute to conditions like back pain, neck pain, shoulder impingement, and even headaches. We tend to use OTC pain relivers or joint supports that further increases the problem in long run.
• Movement Efficiency: Healthy, flexible fascia allows for more efficient movement, requiring less effort and reducing the risk of injury.
• Holistic Health: Because fascia connects everything, issues in one area can impact seemingly unrelated areas. Addressing fascia restrictions can have a ripple effect, improving overall health and wellbeing.
• Performance Enhancement: Athletes are now recognizing the importance of fascia for optimal performance and injury prevention.

Taking care of fascia is not a complicated thing all you need is proper Hydration and Nutrition, slow cardio, Good posture, Foam Rolling and reduce stress.