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.
In general, the applied kinesiologist finds a muscle that tests weak and then attempts to determine why that muscle is not functioning properly. The practitioner will then evaluate and apply the therapy that will best eliminate the muscle weakness and help the patient.
Therapies utilized can include specific joint manipulation or mobilization, myofascial therapies, cranial techniques, meridian therapy, clinical nutrition, dietary management and various reflex procedures.
Brief History of A.K.
The use of manual muscle testing to evaluate body function was introduced by George Goodheart D.C. (Doctor of Chiropractic) in 1964. Since then, research into and knowledge of AK has expanded considerably, providing many additional dimensions to the diagnosis of bodily dysfunction.
Even in the early days of AK, it was apparent how the use of many treatment methods in Osteopathy, Chiropractic, Acupuncture and Homeopathy produced improved neuromuscular function which could be directly measured using manual muscle testing.
The Triad of Health
 Applied kinesiology uses the triad of health - chemical, mental and structural factors - to describe the proper balance of the major health categories.
The triad is represented by an equilateral triangle with structural, chemical and mental health representing the three sides. When a person experiences poor health, it is due to an imbalance in one or more of these three factors.
The triad of health is interactive and all aspects must be evaluated for the underlying cause of a problem. A health problem on one side of the triad can affect the other sides. For example, a chemical imbalance may cause mental symptoms. Applied kinesiology enables the practitioner to evaluate the triad's balance and direct therapy toward the imbalanced side or sides.
Conditions Treated
Any basic structural defects for which any person may visit a healthcare practitioner e.g.:
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• neck pain
• back pain
• sciatica
• headaches and migraine |
• postural abnormalities
• disc injuries
• nerve root irritation
• acute onset and sports injury |
In addition, an AK practitioner will address many other functional and systemic disorders from which people increasingly suffer in modern day society, including:
• stress related disorders
• childhood disorders such as allergies, asthma, eczema, recurrent ear, nose and throat infections
• hormone related disorders
• symptoms of PMS and menopause
• irritable bowel syndrome
• post viral fatigue syndrome / ME
• food intolerances
• sleep pattern disorders
• behavioural problems of infancy and childhood
• dyslexia
What to Expect During an AK Treatment
The practitioner will take a full and detailed history. They will then perform a wide variety of muscle tests on the patient in order to establish areas of dysfunction.
The great advantage of AK is that the practitioner no longer needs to rely entirely on chemicals or invasive technology to treat the patient. AK provides a system whereby the practitioner works with the patient and the patient is able to be actively involved in their treatment and has an immediate source of feedback through muscle testing. In this way, the patient is able to adopt a much greater sense of responsibility towards their health, and can have a greater awareness of any dysfunction present.
When visiting an AK Practitioner, expect to be involved. They will test for basic mechanical defects; the possible connection of visceral dysfunction (that is, the function of the associated gland or organ); stress levels in the body; and, where relevant, cranial and pelvic distortion and toxicity / allergy problems.
Treatment may involve any combination of manipulative work, guidance in self-treatment, nutritional support, homeopathic remedies and treatment to aid stress-related problems.
Initial Consultation - 60 minutes £60
Subsequent Treatments - 45 minutes £50
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 KAREN WILLIS BSc (Hons) Ost Med, ND, DO, MRN, BSc (Hons) Biochem
Karen originally trained as a Biochemist and worked in the fields of cancer research, genetic disorders and laboratory diagnosis of diseases. After some years, Karen realized that she wanted to work more closely with people and decided to pursue a career in the healing sciences. Karen went on to obtain a First Class Honours degree in Osteopathic Medicine and a Diploma in Naturopathy from the British College of Osteopathic Medicine. During the four years that she spent studying Osteopathy and Naturopathy, Karen worked as a Natural Remedies adviser and practiced Sports Massage and Lymphatic Drainage. Since qualifying as an Osteopath, Karen has trained in Modern Acupuncture (dry needling), Cranial Osteopathy and Applied Kinesiology.
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