Applied Kinesiology (AK) is a safe, non-invasive approach that looks at the body as a whole rather than focusing on symptoms alone. It uses gentle manual muscle testing as a tool to evaluate how the nervous system is functioning and adapting to different stresses. Muscle testing is not a measure of strength, but a way to assess how the nervous system communicates with muscles and responds to structural, chemical, and neurological influences.
At our office, Applied Kinesiology is used alongside standard chiropractic, neurologic, and orthopedic examinations to help guide a thorough and individualized evaluation. This approach helps identify possible imbalances that may be contributing to muscle and joint pain, movement restrictions, digestive concerns, and overall health challenges. By assessing the relationship between the sensory and motor systems, AK helps us better understand what may be interfering with the body’s ability to heal and function optimally.
Many patients seek Applied Kinesiology when they feel frustrated by unresolved or complex conditions. Licensed healthcare professionals trained in AK use this method to support patients dealing with pain, injury, stress, fatigue, and other functional concerns. Our goal is to provide thoughtful, natural care that supports the body’s innate ability to adapt, heal, and restore balance helping patients move better, feel better, and live more fully.
If you would like a deeper explanation of how Applied Kinesiology works and why many consider it one of the best-kept secrets in health care, we invite you to watch the short video below.
The word chiropractic comes from two Greek roots: chiro-, meaning hand, and -practic, meaning to do or to act. Chiropractic means done by hand and practiced through action. It is a hands-on approach to healthcare focused on restoring movement, balance, and function within the body.
Chiropractic was founded in 1895 when D.D. Palmer delivered the first chiropractic adjustment in Davenport, Iowa. His patient, Harvey Lillard, a janitor who had lost much of his hearing after a back injury, reported significant improvement following the adjustment. This moment marked the beginning of chiropractic care and highlighted the powerful connection between the spine, nervous system, and overall health.
Today, chiropractic care is a modern, evidence-informed profession centered on how the body moves and adapts. Chiropractors focus on the relationship between the spine, joints, muscles, and nervous system, recognizing that proper motion and communication within the body are essential for health.
Rather than simply treating symptoms, chiropractic care seeks to identify and address the root causes of pain and dysfunction. By improving joint motion, reducing stress on the nervous system, and restoring proper biomechanics, chiropractic care helps the body function more efficiently and heal more effectively.
Chiropractic care is not one-size-fits-all. The best approach is the one that fits the individual patient, their condition, and how their body responds to care. Because every person’s nervous system, movement patterns, and stressors are different, some chiropractors use specialized techniques to better understand what the body needs. One of these approaches is Applied Kinesiology, a method that helps guide care by assessing how the nervous system adapts and communicates through muscle function.
Chiropractic care focuses on improving how the nervous system communicates with the rest of the body. When nerve function is supported, many systems can work more efficiently.
• Headaches and migraines
• Dizziness or vertigo
• Numbness or tingling in arms or legs
• Poor concentration or brain fog
• Sleep disturbances
• Stress-related tension
Through nervous system support, chiropractic care may help improve digestive regulation.
• Acid reflux or heartburn
• Bloating or gas
• Constipation
• Irritable bowel symptoms
• Abdominal tension
Spinal and rib mobility can affect breathing mechanics and nerve signaling.
• Restricted breathing
• Rib pain
• Chest tightness
• Recurrent respiratory tension
Chiropractic care may help regulate organ function by supporting the autonomic nervous system.
• Fatigue
• Adrenal stress patterns
• Blood pressure regulation support
• Digestive-organ related discomfort
This is the most well-known area chiropractic helps with.
• Neck pain
• Low back pain
• Mid-back pain
• Sciatica
• Shoulder pain
• Hip pain
• Knee pain
• Joint stiffness
• Muscle tightness or weakness
• Sports injuries
• Postural imbalances
The nervous system plays a role in hormonal balance and pelvic function.
• Menstrual cramps
• PMS symptoms
• Pelvic pain
• Cycle irregularity
• Pregnancy-related discomfort
• Postpartum recovery support
Chiropractic care supports immune and lymphatic health by optimizing nervous system communication, reducing physical stress, and promoting efficient circulation throughout the body.
• Frequent illness
• Slow recovery from sickness
• Chronic inflammation patterns
Many patients seek chiropractic care to improve overall function, not just pain.
• Low energy
• Poor movement patterns
• Reduced flexibility
• Balance issues
• Chronic stress response
• Performance limitations
