Applied Kinesiology (AK) is an alternative medicine practice that evaluates health’s structural, chemical, and mental aspects using manual muscle testing alongside other standard diagnostic methods. Developed by chiropractor Dr. George Goodheart in the 1960s, AK has gained a following among practitioners who believe it can provide insights into a patient’s health that traditional medical techniques might overlook. Central to AK is muscle testing, a diagnostic tool that assesses the body’s responses to various stimuli. This article explores the connection between applied kinesiology and muscle testing, detailing the methods used and their potential applications.
The Basics of Applied Kinesiology
Applied kinesiology operates on the premise that various health problems are associated with muscle weakness or dysfunction. Practitioners believe that identifying and correcting these muscle imbalances can improve overall health. AK integrates principles from traditional Chinese medicine, chiropractic care, and other health disciplines, aiming to create a holistic approach to diagnosis and treatment.
Understanding Muscle Testing
Muscle testing, also known as manual muscle testing (MMT), is a technique where a practitioner assesses the strength and response of a specific muscle or muscle group. The process involves applying pressure to a muscle and evaluating its ability to resist. Muscle testing in AK is used to identify imbalances in the body’s energy systems, nutritional deficiencies, and sensitivities to substances.
Methods of Muscle Testing
Several methods can be used to conduct muscle testing. The choice of method may depend on the practitioner’s training, the specific condition being assessed, and the patient’s needs. Here are some commonly used muscle testing methods:
Direct Muscle Testing
Procedure: The practitioner applies pressure to a specific muscle while the patient resists. The practitioner then assesses the muscle’s ability to hold the resistance.
Application: Direct muscle testing can evaluate the strength and function of individual muscles, identify imbalances, and determine the effectiveness of specific treatments.
Indicator Muscle Testing
Procedure: This method involves testing a specific muscle (often the deltoid) that indicates the body’s overall energy state. The practitioner applies pressure to the indicator muscle while introducing various stimuli or asking the patient to perform specific actions.
Application: Indicator muscle testing can help identify food sensitivities, environmental factors, and emotional stressors.
Surrogate Testing
Procedure: Surrogate testing is used when the patient is unable to be directly tested, such as in infants or individuals with severe disabilities. A surrogate (often a parent or caregiver) is tested in physical contact with the patient.
Application: This method allows practitioners to assess the health of individuals who cannot participate in direct muscle testing.
Nutritional Response Testing
Procedure: The practitioner tests the body’s response to various nutritional substances by placing the substances in the patient’s mouth or on their body and then performing muscle testing.
Application: Nutritional response testing can help identify nutritional deficiencies and guide dietary recommendations.
The Process of Muscle Testing
While the specifics can vary, a typical muscle testing session might include the following steps:
Preliminary Assessment: The practitioner takes a thorough medical history and discusses current health concerns with the patient.
Baseline Testing: The practitioner performs a series of baseline muscle tests to establish the patient’s normal muscle strength and response patterns.
Introduction of Stimuli: Various stimuli, such as nutritional supplements, allergens, or stressors, are introduced to the patient, either through direct contact, ingestion, or visualization.
Muscle Testing: The practitioner applies pressure to the selected muscle while the patient resists. The practitioner observes the muscle’s response and notes any changes in strength or function.
Interpretation and Recommendations: Based on the muscle testing results, the practitioner may recommend dietary changes, supplements, chiropractic adjustments, or other interventions.
Applications and Benefits
Practitioners use applied kinesiology and muscle testing to address a wide range of health issues, including:
Nutritional Deficiencies: Identifying and addressing vitamin, mineral, and other nutrient imbalances.
Food Sensitivities and Allergies: Determining sensitivities to specific foods or environmental allergens.
Emotional Stress: Assessing the impact of emotional stress on physical health and identifying strategies to manage stress.
Structural Imbalances: Identifying and correcting misalignments in the musculoskeletal system.
Chronic Pain: Addressing the underlying causes of chronic pain and improving overall function.
Applied kinesiology and muscle testing offer a unique approach to health assessment and treatment, emphasizing the interconnectedness of the body’s physical, chemical, and emotional systems. While controversial and not widely accepted within mainstream medicine, many practitioners and patients report significant benefits from these techniques. By understanding the principles and methods of muscle testing, individuals can explore new ways to support their health and well-being.