Therapies – Science Behind It
Biotensegrity
A Model for Understanding that ‘Form dictates Function’
Biotensegrity explains how the body is held together and functions through a dynamic balance of tension and compression—bones providing compression and collagen fibres providing tension, much like a tent with poles and ropes. Collagen is more than just structural; it also carries tiny electrical signals. When collagen is compressed or stretched, it generates and transmits bioelectrical signals through its network. These signals travel along the collagen matrix and communicate directly with the trillions of cells in the body, guiding their response and function. In this way, both mechanical forces and electrical signals are continuously shared across the entire system, allowing the body to stay coordinated, resilient, and adaptive.
The Threads That Bind
In addition, on the surface of every cell are tiny, thread-like connectors called integrins. These act as anchors, linking each cell to the surrounding connective tissue matrix. Integrins don’t just attach the cell—they sense and transmit the mechanical forces coming in from the matrix. This matrix, built largely from collagen, behaves like a liquid crystal that can conduct signals. When the body experiences pressure, stretch, or movement, the collagen generates a subtle electrical charge—a phenomenon known as the piezoelectric effect. This serves as a communication system, sending signals through the matrix to the cells.
Once these mechanical forces reach the cell, they are translated into biochemical signals—the cell’s way of knowing what work needs to be done. Within the tensegrity model, the cell itself is built to be both strong and adaptable. It can flex to absorb the incoming load, then naturally return to its optimal pre-loaded shape, preparing itself to receive and respond to the next mechanical signal.