Applied Kinesiology

What is Applied Kinesiology?

Also called biomechanics, Kinesiology is the traditional study of the movement of the body. Applied Kinesiology, which is also called muscle strength testing, is a set of methods used to diagnose and treat certain conditions based on the idea of how muscles are linked to glands and organs in the body.

This form of Kinesiology was first developed by George Goodheart, Jr., a chiropractor, back in 1964. Over the years, his theories have been developed to the point where today’s practitioners are trained in Applied Kinesiology in the post-graduate field. While most are chiropractors, there are also dentists, osteopathic physicians, and even traditional physicians who use this approach.

For those who practice Applied Kinesiology, a weakness in a specific muscle may signal an internal problem which may be close or far away depending on how it is connected. Such issues may include, but not limited to the following conditions;

• Reduced Supply of Blood
• Chemical Imbalances
• Nerve Damage
• Organ or Glandular Issues

The theory goes that by correcting the issue with the muscle that is affected, it will also help heal the cause of the weakness. This means that an internal organ may be treated by addressing the issue in the muscle that is connected, which may be in the torso, leg, arm, foot, hand, or other place in the body.

How Applied Kinesiology is Used

For those who are committed to the practice, it is can be used to diagnose a specific issue and treat it using established techniques. However, it all begins with the medical history of the patient, followed by specific testing to see the changes in blood flow from lying, sitting, and standing to detect any imbalances that may be present.

It’s common to see testing of how the patient stands, moves, and their full range of motion. Plus, there are tests of their reflexes, balance, and the sensitivity of the skin. When these tests are completed, the strength of the muscles are tested by the pressure that is applied by the physician. If the muscle stands up, it is considered strong, if not, it is considered weak and may indicate that there is an issue.

The practitioner applies pressure to known trigger points to get the reaction and from that makes a diagnosis that may indicate something inside the body is causing the weakness to the muscle. Another test is the use of food or substance that either strengthens or weakens the patient. This type of testing is repeated until a proper diagnosis can be made of an issue or the patient passes the test.

Is Applied Kinesiology for You?

It should be known that the International College of Applied Kinesiology that oversees those who use the techniques for their patients. The organization has been around since 1973 and has chapters in countries like the US, Japan, Russia, Australia, and across Europe and parts of Asia.