Fibroblast moving through collagen net; thereby causing fascial contracture

A live fibroblast (connective tissue cell) moving through their surrounding collagen web. Note that by moving, it also contracts or densifies the collagen architecture. I.e. after moving away from the upper right corner, this area has become more dense, and probably also stiffer than before. It is assumed that these cells constantly migrate through the collagen net in order to repair and replace older or worn out elements. Suggested conclusion: under states of chronic silent inflammation or in an acidic condition (like under stress) these cells have a higher contractility, and may tend to tighten the collagen net more than during normal conditions. If so, then a few days of such cellular activity may be sufficient to induce a chronic fascial contracture which may lead to myofascial stiffness and reduced jont mobility.

• #science_technology
• #fascia
• #fascial_contraction
• #contracture
• #fibroblast_moving
• #connective_tissue