Myofascial Release FITNESS EVALUATION AND ASSESSMENT Fascia Fascia = specialized connective tissue that surrounds every muscle, nerve, bone, blood vessel and organs. Functions of Fascia: 1. Supports vessels and arteries 2. Allows muscles to move over each other 3. Provides stability and lubrication which allows motion Fascia 3 Layers of Fascia: 1. Superficial = thin elastic fibers under the surface of the skin 2. Deep = separates muscles and organs 3. Dura mater = deepest layer – surrounds the brain Connective Tissue Connective tissue is an adaptive tissue that responds to trauma to protect the body. CT allows for motion of the body Made up of: 1. Collagen – provides support 2. Elastin – provides flexibility 3. Ground substance – surrounds every cell to provide cushion Fascia Restrictions Fascia tightens after trauma occurs to it The body’s reaction to trauma: Collagen becomes dense and fibrous Elastin loses resiliency Ground substance solidities Fascial restrictions create abnormal strain patterns resulting in compression of joints muscles producing pain and imbalances. Myofascial Techniques Myofascial Techniques