Fascia's role in the mind-body continuum: a novel target for integrative treatments in psychiatry.
Frontiers in Psychiatry January 1, 2026 S Mudasser Shah, Muhammad Jahangir, Ghada Saleh Alhudaithi et al.
Fascia, the body's connective tissue network, may play a role in psychiatric disorders like depression and anxiety. The fascia communicates with the brain through mechanotransduction, proprioception, and interoceptive signaling, linking physical tension to emotional states. Chronic stress causes fascial stiffness and inflammation, potentially worsening stress-related psychiatric conditions. Myofascial pain syndromes often co-occur with these disorders. Therapies targeting fascia, such as myofascial release, yoga, and meditation, might offer benefits, but their effectiveness for psychiatric treatment remains unproven and requires rigorous clinical trials. The evidence is still in its infancy, yet integrating fascial health into psychiatric care presents a promising avenue for holistic mental health treatment.