Key Points:
- Bulk water is the free-flowing water that makes up most of our body's fluids, like blood and lymph. This water can move around easily and is not strongly attached to any molecules or structures.
- In contrast, bound water is water that is tightly bound to specific molecules and structures within our cells and connective tissues, like fascia. This bound water behaves very differently from bulk water.
The bound water in fascia is crucial for allowing the tissue to glide and slide smoothly. It acts as a lubricant, enabling the different layers of fascia to move past each other. Without this bound water, the fascia would be stiff and inflexible.Interestingly, the bound water in fascia forms intricate structures, like "fern-like" patterns, as it attaches to large molecules called glycosaminoglycans. These structured water molecules play a vital role in the function of the fascia.But the importance of bound water goes beyond just the fascia. Researchers believe that the properties of this bound water may also influence how cells function. The structured water around proteins and membranes can affect things like cell signaling and the movement of ions in and out of cells.
References:
1. Pollack, G. H. (2013). The Fourth Phase of Water: Beyond Solid, Liquid, and Vapor. Ebner & Sons Publishers.
2. Corey, S. M., Vizzard, M. A., Bouffard, N. A., Badger, G. J., & Langevin, H. M. (2012). Sensory Stimulation of the Lumbar Spine Induces Changes in Gray Matter Volume in Individuals with Low Back Pain: A Pilot Study. The Journal of Alternative and Complementary Medicine, 18(1), 63–65.
3. Langevin, H. M., & Huijing, P. A. (2009). Communicating about fascia: history, pitfalls, and recommendations. International Journal of Therapeutic Massage & Bodywork, 2(4), 3–8.
