In vivo relationship between pelvis motion and deep fascia displacement of the medial gastrocnemius: Anatomical and functional implications

Abstract

Different authors have modelled myofascial tissue connectivity over a distance using cadaveric models, but in vivo models are scarce. The aim of this study was to evaluate the relationship between pelvic motion and deep fascia displacement in the medial gastrocnemius (MG). Deep fascia displacement of the MG was evaluated through automatic tracking with an ultrasound. Angular variation of the pelvis was determined by 2D kinematic analysis. The average maximum fascia displacement and pelvic motion were 1.501±0.78mm and 6.55±2.47°, respectively. The result of a simple linear regression between fascia displacement and pelvic motion for three task executions by 17 individuals was r=0.791 (P<0.001). Moreover, hamstring flexibility was related to a lower anterior tilt of the pelvis (r=0.544, P<0.024) and a lower deep fascia displacement of the MG (r=0.449, P<0.042). These results support the concept of myofascial tissue connectivity over a distance in an in vivo model, reinforce the functional concept of force transmission through synergistic muscle groups, and grant new perspectives for the role of fasciae in restricting movement in remote zones.