Kinesiology is studied by students of physical education, physiotherapy and other health related professions. It helps them learn how to use the body mechanically and economically.
Some kinesiologists study understudied populations such as children, older adults and athletes in niche sports. Their work can help improve their quality of life.
Applied Kinesiology
Applied Kinesiology, also known as muscle testing, is a holistic health system that evaluates mental and structural aspects of health. It uses manual muscle tests in conjunction with other standard methods for diagnosing pain and illness. This is based on a principle that muscles are connected to organs and endocrine glands. The system also uses the muscles to evaluate body function and determine how well the nervous, digestive, cardiovascular and respiratory systems are working.
Unlike a traditional medical practice, AK practitioners believe that all internal problems are related to the way the body’s muscle systems work. If a muscle is weak, it can cause imbalances that affect other areas of the body and can be corrected by treating the muscle weakness. This is based on the idea that each muscle has a relationship with an organ or gland based on the Chinese medicine meridian system. Consequently, treating the weak muscle will help that organ or gland.
The practitioner will use a variety of procedures to identify the problem. This includes determining the changes in blood pressure as the patient stands up, lies down or moves their arms. The practitioner will use their hands to find the weakest muscle and apply pressure there. A practitioner will also use their eyes, ears, touch the client, and look at the tongue and teeth of the patient to assess their condition.
While most AK practitioners have received training in the technique, they can also be naturopaths (naturopathic doctors), dentists, osteopathic doctors, or conventional physicians. According to Ekivie, physicians must first be certified in their field before they are allowed to study AK.
AK has been widely used but it lacks enough scientific evidence to prove that it is effective. Many medical organizations have rejected it as an alternative medicine. Despite this, many people still believe in it and use to treat different illnesses. The best way to determine if it is right for you is to schedule a complimentary consultation.
Muscle Testing
Kinesiologists use muscle testing, a technique called to determine the strength or weakness of muscles in the body. The practitioner gently pushes on the body’s large muscles to evaluate its response. If the muscles are strong, the practitioner will conclude that the muscles are healthy and balanced. If the muscles become weak when you apply pressure, this is an indication that your body has a health problem. The kinesiologist will ask questions to determine what is causing this imbalance and how it can be treated.
Muscle testing is based on the concept of neuroplasticity, which states that the brain can adapt and develop new motor skills. It is also influenced Chinese acupuncture, chiropractics and other forms of alternative medicine. The kinesiologist may perform a manual adjustment of the muscles or a series of exercises to rebalance them.
A kinesiologist uses a muscle test to examine the effects of various chemicals, foods or emotions on the body. They can also check possible food allergies and other environmental issues which could be contributing towards problems with the health of body and mind. They can ask yes or no questions in order to assess the condition of the patient and then apply a technique that helps restore balance.
Nutritional Counseling
Whether in private practice, working with patients as part of a medical team or providing education for the public on health and wellness, kinesiologists are involved in promoting healthy lifestyles. Nutritional counseling, which is a service that addresses a client’s specific dietary needs, is one of the aspects of this. Nutritional counseling can be tailored to address underlying health issues, such as fatigue, energy levels, and creating healthy habits.
Kinesiologists are also known to use their knowledge in exercise physiology, biomechanics and motor skills to support special populations by training them in functional movements that are related to their conditions. They often work with people who have MS, spinal cord injury or neuromuscular disabilities in order to teach them to walk again.
Practitioners of applied kinesiology view the body as a whole, rather than its individual parts, and aim to address all aspects of a patient’s health. They use manual muscle tests to determine if an imbalance is present in the physical, emotional, biological, or spiritual realms. They also claim to promote wellness and a positive outlook on life by identifying the root cause of problems in a patient’s life.
The field of Kinesiology is divided into many subsets. Each discipline has its own unique applications and theories. Kinesiology practitioners are found in hospitals, clinics and private practices and also in a variety of other allied fields such as rehabilitation, physiotherapy, massage therapy and acupuncture. In addition, kinesiologists can be found in the fields of human resources, case management and medical legal evaluation. Some kinesiologists work as coaches for elite athletes.
Lifestyle Coaching
A kinesiologist is able to help a client create a healthy lifestyle that includes exercise and healthy eating. They may also have been trained to work with their clients on stress management. For example, a person who is stressed at work and home can benefit from a coach who can teach them techniques to relax.
The kinesiology profession is a broad one that includes many different types of practitioners. Applied kinesiology is an alternative medicine that is based on a belief that the body communicates by using muscle testing to reveal imbalances within the energy system. Practitioners of kinesiology use muscle-testing to determine the source of the imbalance, which can be physical, emotional or nutritional.
Those with a degree in Kinesiology may teach physical education, or work as personal trainers or sport coaches. They can also work as health educators and researchers. Kinesiologists collaborate with medical teams in evaluations and rehab, including return to work programs for those injured on the job or in auto accidents.
Although kinesiology and exercise science are often confused, there are some significant differences between them. One of the most common courses included in a kinesiology degree is cell biology, biochemistry. A bachelor’s degree can be a great preparation for graduate work in areas like exercise physiology or sports medicine.
A kinesiologist provides services that are beneficial to people of all ages. A kinesiologist, for example, can work with athletes to improve performance and reduce injury risk by developing conditioning programs. They can also assist an elderly person to improve their posture and balance, and reduce falls.
