George Goodhart is credited with taking the theory of kinesiology further to a way of identifying the relationship between certain muscles and their corresponding organs or organ systems.
According to his theory, a weak response to stimulus of a muscle can signal the poor condition of its related organ.
The interrupted or partly blocked neural impulses that communicate proper function to both organs and muscles could result from a dietary problem, an overload of toxins, or a skeletal problem, among other reasons.
Obviously to those familiar with alternative therapies, this theory has similarities to others such as reflexology, acupuncture and acupressure, and the manual manipulation of joints and muscles.
However, AP focuses on muscle and organ interdependence rather than on the stimulation of pressure points or the realignment of the skeletal system.
Kinesiology is based on an understanding of body movement and organ function as directed by signals from the brain.
These electrical impulses are transmitted via the spinal cord and the nervous system.
Applied kinesiology takes this understanding as the basis of a practical application, in using the muscle response to assess the functionality of hidden organs.
Rather than invasive examinations such as X-rays and biopsies, AP uses external and harmless means to gain information.
Once a diagnosis has been made, one or more therapeutic approaches may be used to effect the desired improvement.
Skeletal manipulation by a chiropractor of the spine or the joints, nutritional counseling, herbal supplements, and acupressure or puncture are some alternative therapies many clinics use to complement each other.
Total body health is addressed in strengthening one part of it, rather than trying to address an isolated symptom such as hives or pain.
Finding a remedy for a weak area of the body can be approached by different means.
If the blockage is structural, chiropractic manipulation of joints and the spine may help.
If poor diet or deficiencies of essential nutrients are implicated, the actual substance can be used to identify the best agent to employ.
AK is used to choose the most effective therapeutic approach as well.
To find a helpful substance in treating dietary concerns, or the correct homeopathic or herbal remedy, the practitioner will ask the client to hold a substance that might prove helpful.
The already diagnosed weak muscle response will be checked again to see if it has changed.
A stronger response indicates that the substance will be beneficial, while no change will indicate something else should be tried.
When a New York city chiropractor explains applied kinesiology to a prospective client, it may well be in a free consultation that may be scheduled as the first step on the journey to renewed health and well being.