Fascia: Key to Balancing Energy Flow at Acupoints

Fascia: Key to Balancing Energy Flow at Acupoints

Five thousand years ago, the observations and understanding of patterns inherent in nature were applied to the physical and energetic components of health and illness to create a holistic system of medicine known as TCM (Traditional Chinese Medicine). According to TCM, Vital Energy (Qi) flowing unimpeded through a network of twelve major meridians maintains health and prevents illness by harmonizing organ systems and nurturing all cells of the body.

Every two hours, energy and information carried by Qi flows progressively from one meridian to another to complete a twenty-four hour cycle. An interruption of flow along a meridian can cause stagnation, deficiency, or congestion which negatively affects that meridian as well as causing disharmony in subsequent ones. Symptoms of physical and emotional illness are reflective of this imbalance.

Acupuncture, acupressure and the application of tuning forks at acupoints are techniques utilized to correct an altered flow of Vital Energy. The effectiveness of intervention at the acupoints is due to their location at the convergence of fascia networks.

Fascia is connective tissue that is interwoven with all body structures creating a complex web of support and communication. Fascia compromised by accidents, surgery, inflammation, or disease is a common source of pain that can negatively affect the entire body due to the integrative nature of the fascia network. Stretching fascia beyond its capacity affects its integrity, causing tears such as can occur with auto accidents, sports injuries, or repetitive trauma. A nerve surrounded by tightened fascia can stick to adjacent structures resulting in irritation and altered sensation. Constriction of the fascia covering muscles interferes with contraction and contributes to adhesion formation.

Considering the prevalence of disability due to fascia dysfunction, the increasing number of investigations into the link between the meridian and fascia networks should result in advancements in understanding, diagnostics and treatment.

Yu Bai, Jun Wang, Jin-peng Wu, et al. (2011) are in agreement with the fascia network being identified as the physical substrate of the meridians: “Specifically, this hypothesis is supported by anatomical observations of body scan data demonstrating that the fascia network resembles the theoretical meridian system in salient ways, as well as physiological, histological, and clinical observations.”

The energy conducted “may be nerve signals, flow of paracrine signaling molecules, electrical signaling through gap junctions among perineurial cells, distribution of mechanical forces, or some combination of these processes.”

There is a connection between altered fascia and blockage of Qi. The authors conclude that “it is our view that neurogenic inflammation in fasciae may constitute a form of disruption of meridian energy flow in TCM.”

Despite major differences in concepts and terminology between Eastern and Western medicine, research such as that by Yu Bai et al. is important in constructing theories with which to investigate and validate TCM.

This will encourage an exploration and appreciation of Chinese concepts of health and illness contributing to a more holistic view that ultimately creates a more dynamic level of vitality and well-being.

The more physiologically-focused activities such as aerobic exercise, resistance training, stretching, and also adequate hydration and nutrition contribute to the healthy functioning of fascia which facilitates optimal energy flow.

Techniques that intervene at acupoints also affect fascia at points where energy can be balanced so that it can continue to circulate unhindered.

Meditative movement practices such as Tai Chi and Qigong ground and center, increasing body-mind awareness and the ability to be flexible to adapt to the challenges posed by day-to-day stressors.

Cultivating a daily health maintenance program that integrates both worlds maximizes the potential to prevent illness, increase vitality and enjoy a greater sense of well-being.



References:

Yu Bai, Jun Wang, Jin-peng Wu, et al., “Review of Evidence Suggesting That the Fascia Network Could Be the Anatomical Basis for Acupoints and Meridians in the Human Body,” Evidence-Based Complementary and Alternative Medicine, vol. 2011, Article ID 260510, 6 pages, 2011. doi:10.1155/2011/260510