July 20, 2025
A “complex” is a group of interconnected skin, muscles, and joints that work together to make motion happen.
Introduction
The "Anatomy by Planes" anatomy atlas offers a visually illustrated introduction to the reciprocal relationships and interconnectedness of skin, muscles, joints, and movement. The articles below explain this novel concept and its underlying philosophy.
Written by
Willem Kramer
July 20, 2025
Although they sometimes share similar names, appearances, or movements, each complex is unique.
July 20, 2025
Regardless of whether a complex has two, three, or more joints, they are so closely connected that they function together, as one unit.
July 20, 2025
Muscles cross one or multiple complexes. Single-complex muscles are prime movers, while multi-complex muscles assist with motion, coordination, and stability.
July 20, 2025
Within a plane and between planes, the complexes that make up our body interlock like the gears of an intricate mechanical watch, forming reciprocal relationships.
July 20, 2025
A complex is designed to move in one, two, or three planes of motion. For example, the "elbow" is built for flexion and extension, which occur in the sagittal plane. It is, however, not built for movement in the frontal and transverse planes. Within these planes, the elbow is considered "passive."
July 20, 2025
Using the concept of “complexes” - interconnected skin, muscles, and joints that together drive motion - improves the effectiveness and results of soft tissue therapy.
July 27, 2025
When a specific movement is painful, “Anatomy by Planes” is my primary reference guide, as it clearly identifies the skin, muscles, and joints involved.
