myofascial

Myofascial is an anatomical and clinical term describing the functional unit formed by muscle tissue and the fascia that surrounds and interconnects it. Fascia is a continuous network of connective tissue that extends from the surface to deep intermuscular planes, surrounding muscles, vessels, and nerves. It contributes to force transmission, joint mechanics, and proprioception, and helps organize body compartments while housing interstitial fluids and cells. Because fascia links muscles across regions, myofascial considerations emphasize the integrated behavior of muscle–fascial units rather than isolated muscles.

Clinical concepts associated with myofascial include myofascial pain syndrome, which features palpable taut bands within muscle tissue and discrete trigger points that can generate referred pain, motor dysfunction, or autonomic symptoms. Other fascial disorders describe restricted fascial mobility or adhesions that may accompany injury, overuse, surgery, or chronic pain conditions. The terminology also underpins approaches aimed at releasing fascia, such as manual therapy and myofascial release techniques.

Diagnosis is usually clinical, based on history and physical examination. Imaging is not routinely required but may be used in research or to exclude other conditions. Treatments commonly involve physical therapy, targeted stretching, manual therapy, dry needling or injections for trigger points, and education on posture and activity modification. The evidence for some interventions varies, and management is often multidisciplinary.