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Updated: Jun 18, 2025

A Novel Application of Musculoskeletal Ultrasound Imaging
Published on: September 17, 2013
From Muscle-Bone Concept to the ArthroMyoFascial Complex: A Pragmatic Anatomical Concept for Physiotherapy and Manual
Karl Noten1, Robbert van Amstel1,2
1Fysio Science Department, Fysio Physics Group, 3401 IJsselstein, The Netherlands.
Background:
In physiotherapy, the classic muscle-bone concept is used to translate basic and clinical anatomy. By defining the anatomical structures from superficial to deeper layers which frame the ArthroMyoFascial complex, our aim is to offer clinicians a comprehensive concept of within the muscle-bone concept.
Method:
This study is a narrative review and ultrasound observation.
Results:
Based on the literature and ultrasound skeletonization, the ArthroMyoFascial complex is defined. This model clarifies fascial continuity at the joint level, describing anatomical structures from skin to deeper layers, including superficial fascia, deep fascia, myofascia including skeletal muscle fibers, and arthrofascia all connected via connective tissue linkages. This model enhances the understanding of the muscle-bone concept within the larger ArthroMyoFascial complex.
Conclusion:
The ArthroMyoFascial complex consists of multiple anatomical structures from superficial to deeper layers, namely the skin, superficial fascia, deep fascia, myofascia including muscle fibers, and arthrofascia, all linked within a connective tissue matrix. This model indicates that it is a force-transmitting system between the skin and the bone. This information is crucial for manual therapists, including physiotherapists, osteopaths, chiropractors, and massage therapists, as they all work with fascial tissues within the musculoskeletal domain. Understanding fascia within the muscle-bone concept enhances clinical practice, aiding in therapeutic testing, treatment, reporting, and multidisciplinary communication, which is vital for musculoskeletal and orthopedic rehabilitation.
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