Applied Kinesiology
Applied Kinesiology is a diagnostic tool that requires no invasive procedures.
Applied kinesiology (AK) is a holistic diagnostic system that uses manual muscle testing to evaluate the body’s structural, chemical, and emotional balance. Developed in 1964 by Dr. George Goodheart, a Detroit-based chiropractor, AK began when Goodheart observed that specific muscle weaknesses could often be corrected by stimulating related reflex and acupuncture points. He proposed that muscles serve as functional indicators of underlying health issues—an innovative idea that laid the foundation for what would become a worldwide multidisciplinary approach to wellness.
AK expanded rapidly as clinicians recognized its ability to integrate concepts from chiropractic, osteopathy, acupuncture, nutrition, and functional neurology. In 1974, the International College of Applied Kinesiology (ICAK) was founded to standardize education, research, and certification. The ICAK established rigorous training requirements and continues to serve as the primary governing body for professional AK practitioners. Today, it includes doctors of chiropractic, medicine, osteopathy, dentistry, and other licensed healthcare providers. The organization hosts annual conferences, publishes educational materials, and maintains a competency examination to ensure the highest standards of practice.
Applied kinesiology operates on the principle that the body’s systems are interconnected through what Goodheart called the “Triad of Health”—structure (musculoskeletal system), chemistry (nutrition and biochemistry), and psyche (emotional well-being). Imbalances in any one of these areas can manifest as muscle weakness. Through muscle testing, practitioners evaluate how different stimuli—such as touch, pressure, foods, supplements, or environmental factors—influence muscle strength. A strong or weak response provides insight into underlying dysfunctions or stressors.
The uses of AK are wide-ranging and integrative. In musculoskeletal care, it helps identify joint dysfunctions, muscle imbalances, and compensatory patterns that may not be evident through standard orthopedic assessments. In nutritional practice, AK can reveal sensitivities, digestive weaknesses, or metabolic imbalances, helping guide targeted supplementation or dietary recommendations. Neurologically, AK can provide information about brain hemisphere function, proprioceptive deficits, cranial faults, and other subtle neurological disturbances. Many practitioners also use AK to evaluate the effects of stress, emotional factors, and energetic imbalances on the body.
By integrating structural, biochemical, and emotional assessments into a single framework, applied kinesiology offers a comprehensive, patient-centered approach to health. It allows clinicians to identify root causes, customize treatments, and support the body’s innate capacity to heal and maintain balance.
Dr. Haas has been practicing with Applied Kinesiology since 1983. To learn more about how applied kinesiology can help you book a free consultation with Dr. Haas today.
