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Kinesiology is defined as the study of muscles and
their movements. It addresses the bio-mechanics
of the musculo-skeletal system; how the muscles
move the bones. It is a useful tool for assessing
neuromuscular re-education and other physical therapy/rehabilitation
protocols.
Kinesiology is not to be confused with Applied
Kinesiology which is the study of functional neurology.
It involves testing the strength of muscles to determine
the function of the neurological system, both for
musculo-skeletal assessments as well as for assessing
the organs which are associated with those specific
muscles and nerves.
Both forms of kinesiology are useful in re-establishing
or re-gaining functional use of injured areas including
muscles and joints.
There are two ways to test for muscle strength.
One method is performed manually. The chiropractor
or trained therapist has the patient assume a specific
position. They are then asked to perform a movement
while resistive force is applied, and their muscle
strength is gauged.
The second way to test muscle strength is with
a computerized diagnostic system such as our functional
capacity equipment. The testing method is essentially
the same as in manual testing. The difference is
that the resistive movements are applied to equipment
that is interfaced with the computer for standardized
measurements.
By employing these methods and the results obtained,
a patient’s progress can be monitored and
fine tuned for maximum benefits.
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