Applied Kinesiology (AK)

​

Applied Kinesiology is an interdisciplinary approach to health care which draws together core elements of many complementary therapies, creating a more unified approach to the diagnosis and treatment of functional illness. The origin of contemporary Applied Kinesiology is traced to 1964 when George G. Goodheart, Jr., D.C., first observed that postural distortion is often associated with specific muscle groups failing isolated testing. He also observed that tender nodules were frequently found within the attachments of the tested muscle. Manual therapy applied to these areas of apparent muscle dysfunction improved both postural balance and the outcome of manual muscle tests. Goodheart and others have since observed that many conservative treatment methods improve neuromuscular function as perceived by manual muscle testing. These treatment methods have become the fundamental Applied Kinesiology approach to therapy.

 

AK uses muscle testing to evaluate normal and abnormal body functions. Evaluation can include various systems of the body such as the nervous, vascular and lymphatic systems along with nutritional status, acupuncture meridians and cerebrospinal fluid function. It not only helps the doctor determine the type of treatment needed, it also helps determine the progress being obtained. When patterns of muscle weakness are identified the practitioner will then evaluate and apply the therapy that will best eliminate the muscle weakness and help the patient most.

​

​

​