Functional Anatomy Investigated: The Connective Tissue Web

Mar 1 2008 by Jack Walton, The Journal

THE body’s connective tissue includes the tendons that attach muscles to bones and has an important role in supporting and connecting various systems in our bodies.

Through a deeper understanding we can achieve greater gains from training, improve technique, benefit from freedom of movement and avoid injury.

The Connective Tissue

When any part of the body moves, the whole body responds. Being mindful of this should have a great influence on the way we train. Healthy connective tissue will impact on our structure, movement, organ health and cardiovascular efficiency. Think of it as a sling that holds everything together and in place.

A Stiff and Knotted Web

It matters a great deal if your connective tissue is not in good condition. In a world of occupations and lifestyles that are shutting down our systems and ability to move freely, the connective tissue suffers, leading to aches, pains, stiffness, joint problems and even deteriorated eyesight, reproductive difficulties and digestive dysfunction.

An integrated view of the body enables us to appreciate these varied influences. Our intestines and other organs have an ideal space and environment to work. When structure changes due to muscle imbalance and tightness, this leads to a compression of the visceral organs and a disruption of function. Applying this may provide relief from digestive disorders.

Likewise, tension across the eye band may prevent specific muscular contractions leading to deteriorated eyesight. Worth considering before you spend thousands on laser surgery, I think.

Free Movement, Free from Pain.

So, how do we apply this?

Keep the connective tissue warm. If you have a sedentary job make a point of exercising lightly/moving every half an hour.

Consider how integrated and functional your training is. What is it that you need to improve?

Bodyworkers are trained to recognise the connective web and are skilled in releasing problem areas.

Without sufficient quality recovery, the body will inevitably break down.

jackwwalton@hotmail.com