Anatomy & Physiology: Current Research
Open Access

BioTensegrity: A new anatomy for the 21st century?

International Conference on Anatomy and Physiology

August 11-13, 2016 Birmingham, UK

John Sharkey

University of Chester, Ireland

Scientific Tracks Abstracts: Anat Physiol

Abstract :

Bespoke dissections with a Biotensegrity focus are providing a new vision and understanding of the continuity of human form. John Sharkeyâ�?�?s fresh new look at human connective tissue highlights its role in providing continuous tension throughout its network. Biotensegrity is emerging as the most significant development in human anatomy in recent years. This presentation identifies important ramifications for a wide range of medical practitioners including surgeons, bio-engineers and human movement specialists. The term â�?�?Tensegrityâ�? was coined by Buckminster Fuller combining the words â�?�?tensionâ�?�? and â�?�?integrityâ�?�?. Fullerâ�?�?s student Kenneth Snelson built the first floating compression structure of â�?�?tensegrityâ�? in 1949 while Dr Stephen Levin an orthopedic surgeon was the protagonist of â�?�?BioTensegrityâ�? in the early 1970â�?�?s. As a Clinical Anatomist, he has investigated this model and the role of fascia in his dissections to better understand the mechanisms of human movement and chronic pain while providing new anatomical knowledge and awareness leading to less invasive surgical and non-surgical therapeutic interventions. In this short presentation Clinical Anatomist John Sharkey puts forward an argument for a new focus in medical education concerningthe continuity of human form in the study of anatomy and calls for a change in the Anatomic nomenclature from â�?�?soft tissueâ�? to â�?�?soft matterâ�?.

Biography :

John Sharkey, MSc, BACA, BASES, is a recognised author and authority on the topic of Clinical Anatomy and the treatment of chronic pain. He holds Master's degrees in Clinical Anatomy (BACA), Exercise Physiology (BASES) and is the Programme Leader of the Master’s degree in Neuromuscular Therapy accredited by the University of Chester. He is a member of the Olympic Councils Medical and Science Team. He provides BioTensegrity focused full body Thiel soft fix dissection courses in Dundee University. An International presenter and keynote speaker, he is a member of the Editorial Team of Journal of Bodywork and Movement Therapies (JBMT) and the BioTensegrity Interest Group (B.I.G) under the guidance of his mentor Dr. Stephen Levin.

Email: john.sharkey@ntc.ie