Fascia: according to Tom Myers

Cartilage

Cartilage, like bone, is considered a hard tissue and is traditionally not included in the fascial definition. Similar to bone, cartilage also features a combination of fiber and other substances. For instance, cartilage in the nose comprises collagen fibers combined with chondroitin sulfate, which is a rubbery, plastic-like material similar to silicone used in sealing bathtubs. The presence of a fiber matrix within cartilage makes it even more robust.

Most bones begin as cartilage structures, which eventually convert to bone as chondroitin sulfate, the rubbery component of cartilage, interacts with other proteins. The specific type of fiber within the cartilage determines its classification.

Hyaline cartilage is one type, found in areas such as the nose and voice box, and is composed of a mix of fibers and the rubbery plastic-like component. In some regions where greater elasticity is required, such as vocal cords and ears, more elastin is present, allowing for increased movement and flexibility.

Fibrocartilage is another type of cartilage that contains a higher percentage of collagen fibers compared to the rubbery plastic-like material. This composition makes fibrocartilage tougher and more resilient, suitable for areas that need to withstand compression and tension forces, such as the pubic symphysis and the outer part of the annulus in spinal discs. Fibrocartilage is designed to be strong, although it may not always be sufficiently robust for all the demands placed on it.

Fascial Remodelling

Fascial remodelling involves the gradual transformation of connective tissues, from the bone to cartilage, tendons, and other looser tissues. Fibroblasts are crucial cells in this process, and researchers are still studying and identifying various types of cells within connective tissues. A related cell type, called fascicite, has been discovered by Carla Steko, and its primary function is to create hyaluronan.

Fibroblasts are very interesting cells

In an example provided by Peter Friedel, a classic fibroblast can be seen dispensing fascia while moving through the extracellular matrix, which consists of hydrophilic and hydrophobic fibers. The cell moves by attaching hooks from its membrane to the matrix, similar to a tennis ball rolling on Velcro. As the cell moves, it senses the tension and chemical composition of the fascia, adjusting its secretions accordingly.

The Fasciacyte creates the Hyaluronan

The fibroblast secretes materials from its trailing end as it moves, leaving a trail similar to a slug. The fate of these secretions depends on the movement and forces applied to the fascia. Fibroblasts can either secrete new materials or use enzymes to break down old ones, maintaining a balance in the fascia.

The Fibroblast is listening and responding to the tension in its environment

Aging and fascia are also interconnected, as old fascia may have frayed bits that need to be replaced with new fascia. The continuous process of breaking down and rebuilding fascia requires adequate nutrition and loading to stimulate cells to create new fascia.

The client moves to organize the collagen

Fascial remodelling can be affected by scarring, trauma, surgery, or postural changes, resulting in the build-up of fascia where the body needs support. Enzymes play a role in breaking down fascia and promoting change in these situations. However, altering fascia takes time, often involving a process that spans months. It takes longer for fascia to change compared to muscles and nerves, and as a result, fascial remodelling is a slow and gradual process throughout the body.

Here is an old piece of frayed fascia that needs to be cleaned up by a passing fibroblast

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