Frequently Asked Questions

What is Applied Kinesiology?

"Applied Kinesiology (AK) is a form of diagnosis using muscle testing as a primary feedback mechanism to examine how a person�s body is functioning. When properly applied, the outcome of an AK diagnosis will determine the best form of therapy for the patient. Since AK draws together the core elements of many complementary therapies, it provides an interdisciplinary approach to health care." -- www.appliedkinesiology.com

What is an Applied Kinesiology examination?

Applied kinesiology interactive assessment procedures represent a form of functional biomechanical and functional neurologic evaluation. The term �functional biomechanics� refers to the clinical assessment of posture, organized motion such as in gait, and ranges of motion. Muscle testing readily enters into the assessment of postural distortion, gait impairment and altered range of motion. During a functional neurologic evaluation, muscle tests are used to monitor the physiologic response to a physical, chemical or mental stimulus. The observed response is correlated with clinical history and physical exam findings and, as indicated, with laboratory tests and any other appropriate standard diagnostic methods. Applied kinesiology procedures are not intended to be used as a single method of diagnosis, they should enhance standard diagnosis, not replace it.

What would I need to see a doctor using Applied Kinesiology in his/her practice?

In applied kinesiology a close clinical association has been observed between specific muscle dysfunction and related organ or gland dysfunction. This viscera-somatic relationship is but one of the many sources of muscle weakness. Placed into perspective and properly correlated with other diagnostic input, it gives the physician an indication of the organs or glands to consider as possible sources of health problems. In standard diagnosis, body language such as paleness, fatigue, and lack of color in the capillaries and arterioles of the internal surface of the lower eyelid gives the physician an indication that anemia can be present. A diagnosis of anemia is only justified by laboratory analysis of the patient�s blood. In a similar manner, the muscle-organ/gland association and other considerations in applied kinesiology give indication for further examination to confirm or rule out an association in the particular case being studied. It is the physician�s total diagnostic workup that determines the final diagnosis.

What are the benefits that may be experienced from using the Applied Kinesiology based procedures?

• Provide an interactive assessment of the functional health status of an individual in conjunction with standard diagnostic procedures
• Restore postural balance, correct gait impairment, improve range of motion
• Achieve homeostasis of endocrine, immune, digestive, and other visceral function Intervene earlier in degenerative processes to prevent delay the onset of frank pathologic processes.

What is the education of someone doing Applied Kinesiology?

Applied Kinesiology is performed by health care professionals. First, they have their basic education is whatever field they practice. For example, they might be a medical doctor, osteopath, chiropractor or a dentist. They then study Applied Kinesiology in a post graduate setting usually in weekend classes. The basic course takes over 100 hours of classroom study and many hours of study and practice at home. A basic proficiency in Applied Kinesiology is tested for at the end of this basic class. Continuing classes are taken to reach the next step where a diplomate exam, a complete understanding as shown by a written and oral test, is taken. To attain this level, over 300 hours of classroom study are required along with the writing of at least two research papers.

Is Applied Kinesiology muscle testing?

A professional using Applied Kinesiology test muscles therefore utilizing muscle testing as a tool to confirm his/her normal examination findings.

Does Applied Kinesiology replace standard examinations?

NO. Applied Kinesiology is used as a further tool to help define what is going wrong or what imbalances are present. For example, in some conditions like hypoglycemia, some specific muscle weakness patterns can be found. However these same weakness patterns could be there because of a nerve problem. Only an adequate history of the person, coupled with standard examination procedures and if needed laboratory findings allow a proper treatment of the person. The use of Applied Kinesiology procedures speeds the examination process and helps to rule out other possible causes of the person�s health problems.

Courtesy Information from International College of Applied Kinesiology: www.icak.com