From Muscle to the Myofascial Unit: Current Evidence and Future Perspectives

The motor unit or the muscle has long been considered the quantal element in the control of movement. However, in recent years new research has proved the strong interaction between muscle fibers and intramuscular connective tissue, and between muscles and fasciae, suggesting that the muscles can no longer be considered the only elements that organize movement. In addition, innervation and vascularization of muscle is strongly connected with intramuscular connective tissue. This awareness induced Luigi Stecco, in 2002, to create a new term, the myofascial unit, to describe the bilateral dependent relationship, both anatomical and functional, that occurs between fascia, muscle and accessory elements. The aim of this narrative review is to understand the scientific support for this new term, and whether it is actually correct to consider the myofascial unit the physiological basic element for peripheral motor control.

Automated summary

Recent research has shown a strong interaction between muscle fibers and intramuscular connective tissue, as well as between muscles and fasciae, challenging the idea that muscles are the sole organizers of movement. The innervation and vascularization of muscles are also connected with intramuscular connective tissue. Luigi Stecco introduced the term "myofascial unit" to describe the anatomical and functional relationship between fascia, muscle, and accessory elements. This narrative review aims to explore the scientific evidence supporting the concept of the myofascial unit as the fundamental element for peripheral motor control.