Fascia: according to Tom Myers

Neuromotor Units

Fascial remodeling is influenced by the loading and movement of tissues. Without proper loading, the fascia can become disorganized, resembling a felt-like structure. This disorganization commonly occurs in scar tissue for two reasons: first, the body reinforces the area around the scar tissue to prevent further damage; second, individuals may avoid movement in the affected area due to pain or discomfort, leading to unorganized fascia.

If you don’t load your collagen appropriately it will become chaotic-like felt

In some areas of the body, such as the palm, a felt-like structure is beneficial, as it can handle forces from various directions. However, in other areas like tendons, organs, or muscle attachment points, disorganized fascia can be detrimental, as it hinders necessary glide and movement.

An example of fibers going in every direction, disorganized fascia looks like felt

Tendons and muscles are more complex and interconnected than initially believed. The muscle fibers within their fascial cases connect to fibers in the tendon, which are also encased in fascia. Tendons consist of circles within circles, similar to the organization of muscle fibers. Muscle spindles and Golgi tendon organs, found in muscle and tendon parts respectively, connect to the same location in the spinal cord. This arrangement reveals that the body does not operate on a muscle-by-muscle basis, but rather through neuromotor units, which are even smaller components of the muscles.

The organized structure of tendon

Although anatomy books and dissections often display muscles as individual units, in reality, they blend and work together. The brain organizes movement in terms of these smaller neuromotor units rather than the entire muscle. Golgi tendon organs are distributed throughout the tendon, demonstrating that tendons are composed of smaller, organized bundles, similar to the fascicles in muscles. This organization is connected neurologically and through myofascial force transmission. Consequently, it is essential for trainers and therapists to understand the intricacies of neuromotor units and how the brain processes movement, rather than simply focusing on larger muscle groups.

For movement the brain thinks in terms of neuro-motor units or fascicles and not in terms of muscles

Fascial Properties

In this discussion, we will explore the properties of fascia, a connective tissue found throughout the body. It is important for trainers and fitness professionals to understand these properties in order to develop effective exercise programs and prevent injuries. Fascia has several key characteristics, including viscosity, elasticity, and plasticity.

Viscosity: Fascia is viscous, meaning that it can distribute force over a wide area, thereby protecting bones and joints from excessive impact. This property allows the body to withstand daily activities such as walking, running, or catching a ball. However, research has yet to determine the best methods for enhancing or maintaining the viscosity of connective tissue. Nonetheless, it is essential to be aware of this property and its role in everyday movement and exercise.

The muscle is an isometric contraction while the tendon gets longer and bounces back

Elasticity: Fascia is also elastic, meaning that it can stretch and return to its original shape. This property is crucial for activities that involve quick, cyclical movements, such as jumping rope. To build and maintain elasticity in the fascia, it is necessary to engage in exercises that involve rapid movements lasting a second or less. This can help improve overall movement and functionality, especially in older individuals who may lose elasticity as they age. It is important to note that elasticity is best trained at athletic speeds.

Plasticity: Another property of fascia is its plasticity, which allows it to be deformed and then return to its original shape slowly. This characteristic is important for activities that involve slow, deliberate movements, such as yoga or certain types of bodywork. To benefit from the plasticity of fascia, individuals should engage in exercises that involve slow, sustained movements.

The muscle is an isometric contraction while the tendon gets longer and bounces back

In conclusion, understanding the properties of fascia is essential for trainers and fitness professionals to develop effective exercise programs and minimize the risk of injury. By incorporating a variety of movements and exercises that target the viscosity, elasticity, and plasticity of fascia, individuals can improve their overall physical health and functionality.

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Removing Pain from the Human body by Adaptively Reconfiguring the Connective Tissue Support System…

View Fascia – A Deeper Dive – Part 4 of 8 Here:
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