Applied Kinesiology

Applied kinesiolgy (AK) is a system of diagnosis developed for humans by Dr. George Goodheart.  A recent survey showed that 37.2% of human chiropractors make use of this technique.  The system uses an advanced system of muscle testing techniques to help determine the primary cause of a problem and the best method of trying to fix that problem.

Dr. Carl DeStefano (a student of Dr. Goodheart) has worked for years to bring these techniques to those of us who work with animals.  Dr. Huenefeld is currently learning how to make use of AK to improve treatment outcomes by studying with Dr. DeStefano and Dr. Jena Jersild.

For those of you who have experienced muscle testing techniques, this is nothing new, to those of you who haven't, you may think it is "voodoo". 

The basic idea is to use your muscles to test for problem areas on your horse.  In most cases your deltoid (shoulder) muscles are used to simply give a yes-no answer to the examiner.  The examiner will have you push up against his hand with your arm while you are touching your horse.  This is done while the examiner tests for a problem.  Your arm is just saying- yes there is a problem or no there is no problem.  It is MUCH more complicated than this, but this is the basic idea. 

Unfortunately, people will see this technique used then think they are an expert at diagnosing every problem on their horse and their friends horse. There are many other factors involved, PLUS this technique should never be used alone.  The International College of Applied Kinesiology states:  "Applied Kinesiology procedures are not intended to be used as a single method of diagnosis.  Applied Kinesiology examination should enhance standard diagnosis and not replace it."

In general, Dr. Huenefeld integrates AK into his exam as he sees the need.  Currently, the most common use is in diagnosing pelvic problems.  Basic chiropractic exam (as taught through animal chiropractic schools) only allows for testing the pevis in about 5 basic directions.  With AK, Dr. Huenefeld can test for problems in over 16 different angles plus any variations at each location.  This has made a huge improvement in treating pelvic issues.