What Do You Mean By Kinesiology?

What does kinesiology mean and why have it in your name?

A frequently asked question I get asked while working is “what does Kinesiology mean?”. When seeking healthcare, especially alternative or holistic options, patients often come across various terms and practices that might be unfamiliar. One such term is "Applied Kinesiology" (AK). At Peak Chiropractic and Kinesiology, this practice forms a cornerstone of our approach to wellness. But what does Applied Kinesiology mean, and why is it integral to our identity in relieving pain for our clients?

What is Applied Kinesiology?

Applied Kinesiology is a diagnostic and therapeutic approach used primarily by chiropractors, though also by some medical doctors, dentists, and other healthcare professionals. The practice was developed in the 1960s by Dr. George Goodheart, a chiropractor who discovered that muscle testing could be used to gain insights into the body's functioning.

The core idea behind AK is that the body’s muscles are linked to specific organs and glands, and that muscle weakness can signal imbalances or dysfunctions in the corresponding area. By testing the strength and response of different muscles, practitioners can identify underlying issues and determine the best course of treatment.

How Does Applied Kinesiology Work?

• Muscle Testing: The practitioner applies light pressure to a muscle or group of muscles and asks the patient to resist. A weak response might indicate a problem in the muscle itself or in the organ or gland associated with that muscle.

• Evaluation: The practitioner considers the muscle response along with other factors like posture, gait, and reflexes to gain a comprehensive understanding of the patient’s health.

• Therapeutic Interventions: Based on the findings, a range of treatments can be employed. These might include chiropractic adjustments, nutritional advice, acupuncture, or other therapeutic techniques aimed at restoring balance and health.

Why Include Applied Kinesiology in Our Name?

At Peak Chiropractic and Kinesiology, we believe that holistic health requires a multifaceted approach. Including Applied Kinesiology in our name reflects our commitment to comprehensive care that goes beyond traditional chiropractic methods. Here are a few reasons why AK is central to our practice:

• Holistic Diagnosis: AK allows us to look beyond symptoms to understand the root causes of health issues. This holistic diagnostic tool helps us develop personalized treatment plans that address the underlying problems rather than just alleviating symptoms.

• Integration with Chiropractic Care: Chiropractic care focuses on the alignment of the spine and the nervous system. By integrating AK, we can enhance our diagnostic capabilities, ensuring that our chiropractic adjustments are precisely targeted for optimal results.

• Preventative Care: Applied Kinesiology is not just about treating existing conditions; it’s also a powerful tool for preventative care. By identifying potential issues before they become significant problems, we can help our patients maintain their health and well-being. We do this by ensuring all the muscles within your body are always functioning. 

By incorporating AK into our practice, we ensure that our patients receive the most comprehensive and effective care possible. This is the approach we use with the 1600 clients we have a month and if you think that this is something you’d be interested in, get yourself booked in with one of the clinicians to get you back to being pain free.

References

International College of Applied Kinesiology UK (2024) What is Applied Kinesiology. Available at: https://www.icak.co.uk/what_is_applied_kinesiology.asp (Accessed 30/6/24)