Thickening fascia can become stiff, leading to impaired flow and gliding ability, which can cause a range of symptoms. The body can feel heavy and sluggish, leading to pain, oedema, poor balance, and more. The flow in the fascia can be impaired, causing collagen fibres to stick together and exerting higher pressure on nerve receptors, leading to pain and impeded signals. Muscles can also go into convulsions as they receive constant signals to contract.
Inflammation may occur when transport and communication throughout the tissue are disturbed, and the immune system tries to solve the problem. A tight connective tissue chain can distort the skeleton, so the balance is disturbed and joints wear.
The entire locomotion system is affected by poor coordination and endurance. The causes may be many: overload, damage by external trauma, inflammation due to lifestyle, poor diet, nutritional deficiencies, anxiety, depression or other issues.
Our bodies need motion to maintain optimal metabolism and circulation to the tissues. If we stop moving, the flow will decrease, and the fascia will stick together. It is a good idea to move after rest or being sedentary. Yawning with a deep inhalation and then a slow exhalation can also stretch the lungs. However, if the movement is obtuse and it hurts, it is easy to avoid activity, leading to stagnation in the flow.
Hyaluronan, found in the fascia's ground substance, binds water over 1000 times its weight, can quickly change viscosity ('thickness' of a liquid), and is an important component in tissue glide. Hyaluronan has many bodily functions and is one of the most important components of the fascia.
Psychological aspects also affect our patterns of movement. A person who is nervous and tense keeps their movements tight and builds up tension, whereas a more energetic person often is more mobile and relaxed.
It is important to regularly engage in strength, mobility, and flexibility training to maintain the health of your fascia.
