Although the existence of myofibroblasts represents a plausible explanation for stiffness changes, it most likely is not the only cause. Based on calculations, several authors suggest that the amount of force created by these cells is sufficient to influence musculoskeletal dynamics (Schleip etВ al. 2005) and the pectoral fascia (Stecco etВ al. The presence of contractile cells has been demonstrated for the crural fascia (Staubesand & Li, 1996), the thoracolumbar fascia (TLF Schleip etВ al. This bodywide myofascial continuity holds particular significance because fascial tissues are able to change their tensional state. In contrast to prior assumptions, it builds an extensive tensegrity network linking the skeletal muscles of the human body (Myers, 1997a, b, 2014 Wilke etВ al. Future studies should focus on the inВ vivo function of myofascial continuity during isolated active or passive tissue tensioning.ДЇascia is a mechanically active tissue with proprioceptive and nociceptive functions (Yahia etВ al. Considering anatomical variations in the degree of continuity and histological differences of the linking structures is crucial for interpretation.

However, different methods of force application and measurement hinder the comparability of results. Force transfer might have an impact in overuse conditions as well as on sports performance. The findings of the present study indicate that tension can be transferred between some of the examined adjacent structures. One study yields moderate evidence for a slight, but not significant force transfer at one transition in the FFL. Concerning the SBL and the BFL, there is moderate evidence for force transfer at all three transitions (based on six studies), and one of two transitions (three studies). Nine studies (moderate to excellent methodological quality) were included. The literature research identified 1022 articles. To assess methodic quality, two independent investigators rated studies by means of validated assessment tools ( QUACS and PEDro Scale). PeerвЂђreviewed human dissection studies as well as inВ vivo experiments reporting intermuscular tension transfer between the constituents of a myofascial chain were included. Studied myofascial chains encompassed the superficial backline ( SBL), the back functional line ( BFL) and the front functional line ( FFL). A systematic literature research was conducted using MEDLINE (Pubmed), ScienceDirect and Google Scholar. However, there is still a lack of evidence concerning the functional significance and capability for force transfer.

Evidence for the existence of myofascial chains is growing, and the capability of force transmission via myofascial chains has been hypothesized. The present review aims to provide a systematic overview on tensile transmission along myofascial chains based on anatomical dissection studies and inВ vivo experiments.

H force transmission