Applied Kinesiology (Goodheart)

Presentation

Applied Kinesiology (AK) was founded in 1964 by Dr. George Goodheart Jr., an American chiropractor from Detroit. Observing that certain weak muscles did not respond to conventional treatments, he discovered functional links between muscles, acupuncture meridians, organs and nutrients. AK became a complementary diagnostic evaluation system integrating biomechanics, biochemistry and psycho-emotional dimensions.

The Health Triangle

AK rests on the Triad of Health model, considering health is maintained by the balance of three interdependent factors. The structural side concerns muscles, joints, bones and fascia. The chemical side encompasses nutrition, hormones, toxins and internal biochemistry. The emotional side includes stress, emotions, beliefs and psychological patterns. Imbalance on one side affects the other two.

Muscle Testing

Manual Muscle Testing (MMT) is AK's central tool. The practitioner applies controlled pressure to an isolated muscle in specific position and evaluates its resistance capacity. A "strong" muscle indicates proper neuromuscular circuit function. A "weak" muscle may signal structural, chemical or emotional dysfunction. Testing evaluates over 200 muscles, each associated with an acupuncture meridian and specific organ.

Correction Techniques

• Structural corrections: vertebral manipulations, neurovascular reflex points (Bennett points), neurolymphatic points (Chapman points)
• Chemical corrections: targeted nutritional supplementation, detoxification
• Emotional corrections: Emotional Stress Release (ESR) techniques
• Meridian corrections: acupuncture point stimulation

Limitations and Controversies

AK remains controversial in the scientific community. Systematic reviews conclude that inter-examiner reliability of muscle testing is moderate and efficacy evidence is limited. ICAK insists on rigorous training and use as a complement to conventional medical diagnosis.