fáscia

Fascia is a sheet or band of connective tissue that permeates the body, surrounding muscles, bones, nerves, vessels and organs. It forms a continuous three-dimensional network that supports, surrounds and integrates tissues and is sometimes described as a bodywide fascial system. The term derives from Latin fascia, meaning band.

Fascia is primarily composed of dense irregular connective tissue rich in collagen fibers, especially type I and III, with elastin, proteoglycans and interstitial fluid. It is organized into layers with different roles: superficial fascia beneath the skin containing adipose tissue; deep fascia that envelops muscles and forms compartments; and visceral fascia that surrounds and partly binds organs. All fasciae are interconnected by epimysial, perimysial, and endomysial connections in muscle tissue and by ligaments and mesenteries around organs.

Functions include mechanical support and force transmission between tissues, guidance of muscle fibers, and spatial organization of the body’s movements. Fascia also contains mechanoreceptors and nerve endings that contribute to proprioception and pain perception. Its plasticity allows adaptation to movement, loading and injury, and it participates in interstitial fluid dynamics and energy storage.

Clinically, fascia is relevant in movement disorders and rehabilitation. Fascial restrictions or adhesions can affect mobility and cause pain; therapies such as manual therapy, myofascial release, and specific exercises target fascia. Surgical procedures consider fascial planes to minimize tissue disruption. Conditions such as plantar fasciitis illustrate fascia-specific pathology.