Applied Kinesiology (AK) is a way of getting information from a person's body by assessing the individual's posture, his way of walking, his range of motion, and his muscle condition, and via motion analysis. Muscle testing is also part of these non-invasive assessments.
These assessments are also used in conjunction with conventional methods of diagnosis that include clinical histories, physical exams, and others. At some universities, there is a branch of study called kinesiology, which is a part of physiology regarding the mechanics and anatomy of movement. Muscle testing is not a part of that study; however, it is an integral part of Applied Kinesiology.
In 1964, a chiropractor by the name of George J. Goodheart, Jr. made some observations of weak muscles and discovered that he could help strengthen them; he gradually developed Applied Kinesiology. The original intent was for AK to be used along with other diagnostic tools and therapy employed by healthcare professionals. However, one report stated that now there are over 80 different forms of therapy utilizing the term "kinesiology." It is understandable if there is confusion about the terminology.
Data that is gained through muscle testing comes from a search for information on how well the body is working, how it is reacting to foods or other substances, and its emotional state. Some practitioners use muscle testing to determine possible allergies, effective treatments for injuries, or even weaknesses in the body.
Skilled practitioners, or even individuals doing self-testing, can get fairly accurate information; however, it is not just a matter of trying to move a muscle getting a yes or no to a question. Some practitioners have studied Applied Kinesiology and the various muscle testing techniques for 300+ hours in order to get certified. There is a lot of skill involved in being an effective practitioner using muscle testing and getting correct results. Muscle testing has its proponents, and its opponents, and this could be because some tests have indicated that results were not as accurate as expected. Practitioners lacking all the necessary skills might have contributed to these poor results.
Trained practitioners are a must when it comes to muscle testing because there are a number of potential problems that need to be avoided. For instance, a tester with a strong personality, who has determined in his mind that the body has a certain problem or allergy, could affect the results of the test. This may apply to the client, as well. It is significant because the results could be entirely different from what the body is trying to indicate. Both tester and client need to be neutral and totally open to what the body is going to tell them.