Introduction: Fascia, as part of connective tissue system surrounds and permeates all structures of the body, thus directly effects all physiological processes in the human body. Literature describes superficial fascia, deep fascia and fascia connected with the muscle tissue. The interactions with different structures and its ability to adjust to outer influences, affect the biomechanics of structures related to movement. Purpose: To overview and critically analyze Slovenian and foreign literature and describe effects of manual therapeutic approaches in treatment of fascial tissues. Methods: The research was conducted on MEDLINE, Cochrane library, CINAHL and PEDro. Different books and journals regarding manual myofascial release were also included in the research. There were no time restrictions in reviewing the published literature. Results: Fascia is a colloid substance with plastic, elastic, viscoelastic and piezoelectric properties. Fibroblast form the basis of fascial system and through focal adhesions form a continuous mechanically sensitive network throughout the body. Manual pressure on the tissue generates a sequence of biological and chemical events. Different diagnostic procedures prove the presence of free nerve endings in encapsulated receptors throughout the whole fascial system. Predicted effects of myofascial release are thus expressed through a combination of neurological, muscular and physiological responses in the body. Discussion and Conclusion: Different manual therapeutic approaches are focused on eliminating impairments related to fascial system. Explanation for structural and tensional alterations in the fascia after myofascial release is found in dynamic changes of treated connective and neuro-muscular system. A slow and prolonged therapeutic pressure modifies characteristics and quality of connective tissue structures through different physical mechanisms, thus directly influencing movement quality and pain.
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