Describe the physiology of fascia and its unique properties
What will be an ideal response?
Answer: Fascia is a form of connective tissue that is made of three elements: ground substance, collagen, and elastin. Ground substance is the same liquid that makes intercellular fluid. Fascia contains more ground substance than any other type of connective tissue in the body. Collagen fibers are made of long, straight, strong, and flexible proteins. These fibers are the most common fiber type in connective tissue overall. Finally, elastin fibers are wavy proteins that can be stretched and then return to their original length. A unique property of fascia as compared to other types of connective tissue is that it can transform from a solid to a gel following movement, stretching, and a temperature increase. This is called thixotropy and it contributes to the effectiveness of myofascial massage.