Fascia
Fascia (
IPA: fɑʃɪɑ) is specialized
connective tissue layer which surrounds muscles, bones, and joints, providing support and protection and giving structure to the body. It consists of three layers: the
superficial fascia, the
deep fascia and the
subserous fascia. The word rhymes with the name "Na
tasha" (long-
a).
Fascia is one of the 3 types of dense connective tissue (the other two being ligaments and tendons).
* The
Superficial Fascia is located directly under the
subcutis of the
skin. Its functions include the storage of
fat and
water and it also provides passageways for
nerves and
blood vessels. In some areas of the body, it also houses a layer of
skeletal muscle, allowing for movement of the skin.
* The
Deep Fascia is beneath the superficial fascia. It aids muscle movements and, like the superficial fascia, provides passageways for nerves and blood vessels. In some areas of the body, it also provides an attachment site for muscles and acts as a cushioning layer between them.
* The
Subserous Fascia is between the deep fascia and the membranes lining the cavities of the body. There is a potential space between it and the deep fascia which allows for flexibility and movement of the internal organs.
According to
Terminologia Anatomica of the Federal Committee on Anatomical Terminology
... fascia consists of sheaths, sheets or other dissectible connective tissue aggregations. Most form from condensations of mesenchyme ... some are left behind as organs move ... others are formed as serosal surfaces fuse .... Eventually the term
fascia ... includes not only the sheaths of muscles but also the investments of viscera and dissectible structures related to them..
*
Antebrachial fascia*
Brachial fascia*
Clavipectoral fascia*
Fascia lataa
*
Iliac fascia*
Infraspinatous fascia*
Plantar fascia*
Rolfing*
Supraspinatous fascia*
