ICAK-USA
Research
The
Following is a Compilation of Applied Kinesiology Research Papers Published in
the Collected Papers
of the International College of Applied Kinesiology for the year 1998-1999
-- Edited by
Scott Cuthbert, D.C.
NEUROLOGICAL DISORGANIZATION
Michel Barras, D.C.
ABSTRACT
Objective: To present two studies involving 56
children (age 10 to 11) and 66 females (age 17 to 19), respectively in order to
determine the incidence of neurological disorganization (ND).
Clinical Features: In AK, ND is an abnormal condition
in which the nervous system signals or interprets signals improperly, causing
apparent confusion within the body. This is of particular importance in AK
examination because erroneous information may be derived from the various
testing procedures used. ND produces an observable modification of muscle and
gait coordination, one manifestation of which is homolateral locomotion (the
right leg and arm move forward together with the left leg and arm moving
backward together, and vice versa).
Intervention and Outcome: Gait testing on all the
participants of the study was performed. This involved a MMT of the general
forearm flexor muscles with the feet in a neutral position. Then the forearm
muscles were tested with the arm forward on the opposite side of the forward
leg (contralateral static gait position). The forearm muscles were tested again
with the arm forward on the same side as the forward leg (homolateral static
gait position). Results: 41 out of 56 children (73.2%) in the first study
showed a homolateral gait versus the normal contralateral (this is a sign of
ND). In the second group of 66 females, 87.9% of the participants were
homolateral. In all cases, a cranial corrective procedure involving the
contralateral frontal and occipital bones converted the gait testing from
homolateral to contralateral.
Conclusion: The author suggests that homolateral ND
is the consequence of head trauma because a cranial correction abolished the
ND. This study also shows that over 75% of the population by the age of 11 has
ND. (Collected Papers International College of Applied Kinesiology, 1998-1999;1:1-5)
Key Indexing Terms: Brain Injuries; Epidemiology;
Gait Disorders, Neurologic; Neurologic Manifestations; Treatment;
Chiropractic; Kinesiology, Applied
THE CAUSE AND CURE OF PANIC
ATTACKS: AN OPINION PAPER
Daniel H. Duffy, Sr., D.C.
ABSTRACT
Objective: This paper suggests that a panic attack
(PA) is an intellectualized response (conversion hysteria) to internal
sensations generated by a catecholamine response (CR) initially, and later, PA
is provoked by a sudden drop in circulating glucose levels.
Clinical Features: The metabolic and psychological
effect of the CR is reviewed. The author points out that the physical
sensations elicited by fear and anxiety are similar to those elicited by a
sudden drop in blood sugar are similar, and suggests that both arise from a
sudden release of catecholamines. Physiologically, the sensations arising
during a panic attack are caused by a CR to a sudden drop in blood sugar also
known as the “fight or flee response.” The sudden drop in circulating glucose
is more frequently provoked by insulinogenic foods of high glycemic index
rather than psychological or other physical factors. The author argues that
operant conditioning subsequently links the internal sensations of the CR with
external events, thus creating a PA. Sudden changes in the cellular environment
that occur with blood sugar imbalances, involving the cells’ fuel source, sets
off this alarm system.
Intervention and Outcome: The author’s clinical
experience has shown that stabilizing blood sugars with proper diet and
subluxation correction, along with strong moral support, eliminates the PA
syndrome. A treatment protocol to control blood sugar levels (especially the
rate of change in blood sugar level) is given. AK treatment to the structural
imbalances in the body, small intestine, liver and pancreas treatment, and
improvement of the adrenal stress syndrome has been effective for the author in
the treatment of PA.
Conclusion: During a PA, the functional relationship
between blood sugar levels, insulin release, and CR are often ignored by
doctors and patients. It is the opinion of the author that most habitual
sufferers of PA are the victims of dietary indiscretions that cause wildly
fluctuating blood sugar levels. (Collected Papers International College of
Applied Kinesiology, 1998-1999;1:15-20)
Key Indexing Terms: Panic Disorder;
Catecholamines; Insulin; Blood Glucose; Biochemical Phenomena, Metabolism, and
Nutrition; Treatment; Chiropractic; Kinesiology, Applied
HOMOCYSTEINE
John W. Brimhall, D.C., D.I.B.A.K.
ABSTRACT
Objective: To present evidence that elevated
homocysteine levels are a significant risk factor for vascular and other
disease, and to show how AK testing can help identify this risk.
Clinical Features: Research literature is reviewed to
show that many conditions may result from elevated homocysteine, including
neural tube defects, multiple sclerosis, rheumatoid arthritis, spontaneous
abortion, placental abruption, renal failure, type II diabetes, and
neuropsychiatric conditions. The author performed a literature search and found
1,000 articles in the literature in the past 5 years on homocysteine. The
biochemistry of homocysteine metabolism is presented, as well as the use of
folic acid, B12, B6, methionine, magnesium, niacin, betaine, and
trimethylglycine that allow the breakdown of homocysteine into nontoxic forms.
Intervention and Outcome: The author shows that an AK
oral challenge of homocysteine (using just a tiny amount on the patient’s
tongue) will cause a previously strong muscle to test weak in the case of
elevated homocysteine levels. The administration of the proper nutrient will
abolish the weakness.
Conclusion: There is a high percentage of the
population that weakens to the oral challenge of homocysteine. The growing
awareness of the importance of homocysteine levels in cases of vascular and
other diseases makes this suggested method of diagnosis and nutritional
treatment worthy of further scientific and clinical investigation. (Collected
Papers International College of Applied Kinesiology, 1998-1999;1:31-36)
Key Indexing Terms: Homocysteine; Methionine;
Folic Acid; Vitamin B 12; Vitamin B 6; Betaine; Biochemical Phenomena,
Metabolism, and Nutrition; Diagnosis; Treatment; Kinesiology, Applied
FUNCTIONAL SPINAL CORD NEUROPATHY SECONDARY TO
ACCELERATION/DECEELERATION INJURY
John M. Corneal, D.C., D.I.B.A.K.
ABSTRACT
Objective: A retrospective case series involving 200
patients with whiplash related injuries are reviewed.
Clinical Features: Whiplash accidents causing
hyperextension/hyperflexion injury of the cervical spine create significant
functional impairments and are very prevalent today. These injuries are
ineffectively treated frequently by current medical diagnosis and therapy.
Consistent physical findings in these 200 cases are presented, including: +3
muscle weakness as listed in the Guides to the Evaluation of Permanent
Impairment, 4th Edition by the American Medical Association; +3
muscle weakness of all neck flexors; multiple muscle weaknesses of the upper
and lower extremities; palpable areas of pain in the muscles; organ sensitivity
to palpation; cranial faults; and the elimination of these indicators with
patient cervical flexion (a tucking of the chin to the chest). Radiographic
findings are reviewed, and the hypothesis of spinal cord injury due to the
injuries of whiplash injury is presented.
Intervention and Outcome: Treatment begins with the
examination of all muscles involved, including the hyoid muscles. The author
states that Golgi tendon organ proprioceptors are most frequently disturbed,
followed by spindle cell proprioceptors needing strain-counterstrain and
spindle cell toning techniques. Cervical manipulation was necessary in less
than 1% of these cases. Most patients reported 75-90% improvement in symptoms
after initial treatment. The author states that in post treatment radiographs
two days after initial treatment there appeared to be no change in the
structures treated, although objective and subjective indicators had changed dramatically.
3-month post treatment radiographs showed a decrease in posterior and anterior
displacement of the cervical spine. The author says it may take up to 6 months
healing time in severe cases of whiplash injury.
Conclusion: Once normal muscle function is restored
the structural malpositions, fixations and subluxations of the whiplash injury
complex were resolved. Successful treatment of a potentially devastating
condition that is widespread in the population is demonstrated using AK
techniques. (Collected Papers International College of Applied Kinesiology,
1998-1999;1:49-52)
Key Indexing Terms: Whiplash Injuries; Neck
Injuries; Spinal Cord Injuries; Case Management; Diagnosis; Treatment;
Chiropractic; Kinesiology, Applied
ACID/ALKALINE - TERMINOLOGY AND PHYSIOLOGY IN APPLIED
KINESIOLOGY
Wolfgang. Gerz, M.D., D.I.B.A.K., David. Leaf, D.C.,
D.I.B.A.K.
ABSTRACT
Objective: To discuss the physiology and terminology
relating to acid/alkaline balance.
Clinical Features: Since the mid-1960s, AK has been
investigating acid/alkaline conditions in patients. This paper reviews these
findings and presents a common terminology in order to facilitate the
integration and use of AK in complementary and alternative medicine (C.A.M.).
European physiological writings on this subject are reviewed, and differences
between the terminology used there and in AK are described. The physiological
facts and measurement systems of acid/alkaline imbalances are presented. The pH
of different compartments of the body is quite varied, and these are reviewed.
The many factors that may affect the pH of these different body parts are
listed.
Intervention and Outcome: The AK approach for
determining acid/alkaline imbalances, and the treatment methods employed to
improve problems in this area are described.
Conclusion: There is not much difference between AK
and mainstream medicine on the subject of acid/alkaline balance once
terminology is understood. It is vital to achieve a balanced acid/alkaline
status to correct disturbances of intracellular metabolism. The topic of
acidosis and alkalosis is far more complex and important to patients’ well
being than is frequently taught. Further clinical trials using the methods
described in this paper are warranted. (Collected Papers International College
of Applied Kinesiology, 1998-1999;1:53-61)
Key Indexing Terms: Acid-Base Imbalance; Acidosis;
Alkalosis; Achlorhydria; Biochemical Phenomena, Metabolism, and Nutrition;
Diagnosis; Treatment; Kinesiology, Applied
LIGAMENT STRETCH REACTION AS A PREDISPOSITION TO MITRAL
VALVE PROLAPSE
Steven J. Hansen, D.C.
ABSTRACT
Objective: A case series of 5 patients having mitral
valve prolapse were found also to demonstrate the ligament stretch reaction.
Clinical Features: 5 patients presented for
evaluation of various complaints. The patients described joint pain after
stretching and activity and pain following chiropractic and osteopathic
manipulation. A review of the condition of mitral valve prolapse is given, as
well as hypoadrenia.
Intervention and Outcome: On physical examination,
those patients presenting with a medically diagnosed mitral valve prolapse were
found to be hypoadrenic, specifically demonstrating the ligament stretch
reaction, which is one indication in AK of hypoadrenia. A mineral imbalance due
to depressed adrenal function may cause a weakening of ligaments. The ligament
stretch reaction is diagnosed by stretching a ligament that produces a
weakening of a strong indicator muscle after the stretch. The patients were
treated to stabilize the ligament stretch reaction. This included dietary
measures such as eliminating stimulants like coffee, tea, cola and refined
sugars. AK oral nutrient testing showed a need for adrenal gland nutritional
support.
Conclusion: The correlation in 5 patients of mitral
valve prolapse and the ligament stretch reaction (a common finding in patients
with hypoadrenia) is presented. Further studies involving larger patient
cohorts with mitral valve prolapse are needed. (Collected Papers International
College of Applied Kinesiology, 1998-1999;1:63-65)
Key Indexing Terms: Mitral Valve Prolapse; Adrenal
Insufficiency; Biological Markers; Treatment; Chiropractic; Kinesiology,
Applied
THE RELATIONSHIP OF FOOD ALLERGIES AND VERTIGO: A CASE
HISTORY
Steven J. Hansen, D.C.
ABSTRACT
Objective: To present a case report of a male whose
vertigo resolved after successful AK treatment of food allergies.
Clinical Features: A 14-year-old male presented with
dizziness, upset stomach and headaches of 2 weeks duration, with no prior
history. He was prescribed meclizine, which gave no relief.
Intervention and Outcome: Initial treatment to the
structural faults found (spinal, cranial, muscular) was employed. The patient
had frequent recurrences due to injuries at his parents’ farm. The cessation of
vertigo began when oral testing of food allergens (corn, wheat, histidine) no
longer caused muscle inhibition. Dietary restrictions and nutritional support
for the digestive system were the treatments used.
Conclusion: Patients presenting with vertigo without
frank pathology are often prescribed medications for symptoms without
identifying the cause. Medications are prescribed to sedate labyrinthine
function (Dramamine), or depress the CNS (perphenazine), or are given an
anti-histamine (meclizine). Histamine is related to some forms of vertigo, and
allergies are related to histamine production. The author states that AK offers
a tool to help patients who have vertigo triggered by a histamine reaction
related to allergies. (Collected Papers International College of Applied
Kinesiology, 1998-1999;1:67-69)
Key Indexing Terms: Food Hypersensitivity;
Vertigo; Wheat Hypersensitivity; Zea mays; Histamine; Diagnosis;
Treatment; Chiropractic; Kinesiology, Applied
AYURVEDIC PULSE ANALYSIS: AN APPROACH TO INCORPORATING
APPLIED KINESIOLOGY PROTOCOLS
James D.W. Hogg, D.C., D.I.B.A.K.
ABSTRACT
Objective: To present a method of pulse analysis
using MMT in order to discover Ayurvedic constitutional (mind-body or “dosha”)
types.
Clinical Features: A discussion of the fundamental
tenets of Ayurvedic medicine is presented. In Ayurveda, the five elements -
space, air, earth, fire and water - make up the universe, including the human
body. These elements come together to create three different constitutional
types, or doshas: Vata (airy), Pitta (fiery), and Kapha (earthy). Descriptions
of the three types and their constitutional profiles are described. The
subdoshas are areas of bodily function controlled by the doshas and these are
delineated.
Intervention and Outcome: Pulse analysis is a major
analytical tool in Ayurvedic medicine and reveals the dosha of the patient and
imbalances in the subdoshas. A method of therapy localization and MMT is
described for revealing the findings of Ayurvedic pulse analysis through MMT. A
protocol of pulse point evaluation is offered.
Conclusion: Ayurveda is a 5,000-year-old system of
health care from India that is gaining recognition in the west for its
effectiveness. The author presents the case that Ayurveda is a natural
component in a holistic, functionally oriented practice. This method of
analysis can be incorporated into an AK approach to patient evaluation, and is
especially useful in the author’s experience with chronic or difficult cases.
(Collected Papers International College of Applied Kinesiology,
1998-1999;1:71-79)
Key Indexing Terms: Medicine, Ayurvedic; History;
Evaluation Studies; Diagnostic Techniques and Procedures; Kinesiology,
Applied
JOINT COMPLEX DYSFUNCTION AND THE DECONDITION SYNDROME:
CONTEMPORARY TERMINOLOGY AND PATHOPHYSIOLOGICAL CONCEPTS FOR THE APPLIED
KINESIOLOGY PRACTITIONER
Philip Maffetone, D.C.
ABSTRACT
Objective: To present the view that the term “joint
complex dysfunction” (JCD) is more appropriate when used in the applied
kinesiology approach than the word “subluxation.”
Clinical Features: AK seeks to treat the entire
individual, including the structural, biochemical, and emotional factors. The
term joint complex dysfunction includes the problems associated with physical
inactivity that leads to a deconditioning syndrome, and JCD can exist long
before any joint misalignment or tissue injury occurs. In addition to spinal
joint injury and degeneration, many people exist in a state of cardiovascular
deconditioning due to sedentary living. Arguments relating cardiovascular and
aerobic deconditioning to spinal deconditioning are offered.
Intervention and Outcome: Nutrition and dietary
assessment is also an important aspect of patient care that is often avoided by
chiropractors, osteopaths and medical doctors. This is a serious concern
because treatment procedures often reduce pain and make patients feel better,
despite the existence of numerous nutritional deficiencies and the
deconditioning syndrome that may be producing their JCD in the first place. To
correct the JCD thus involves restoring joint motion, rehabilitating
deconditioned tissues, and reducing chemical mediator release. The importance
of treating our patients in this type of integrated approach is stressed in AK
therapy. Methods of treating the deconditioning syndrome in AK are offered.
Conclusion: At the present time, it is the rare
doctor who focuses on addressing the deconditioning syndrome. Many
practitioners focus on palliative care, rather than corrective care. It should
be understood that the deconditioning syndrome will not resolve unless the
patient becomes an active participant in the process. (Collected Papers
International College of Applied Kinesiology, 1998-1999;1:83-89)
Key Indexing Terms: Musculoskeletal Abnormalities;
Cardiovascular Deconditioning; Terminology; Chiropractic; Kinesiology, Applied
THE SCIENTIFIC RATIONALE FOR SELECTED ASSESSMENT AND
TREATMENT METHODS USED IN APPLIED KINESIOLOGY PRACTICE
Philip Maffetone, D.C.
ABSTRACT
Objective: To review the science regarding selected
assessment and treatment procedures commonly used in AK practice.
Clinical Features: This paper introduces the reader
to the substantial research in peer reviewed, indexed journals which support
procedures used in AK. 157 references are presented and reviewed that relate to
specific tests and treatments in AK, as well as outcome studies showing the
validity of these methods. A variety of assessment tools are reviewed,
including the use of patient information forms, blood pressure changes, vital
capacity, body temperature, nutritional testing, dietary therapy, and muscle
testing.
Intervention and Outcome: The goal of AK
methodologies is to allow the practitioner to match the needs of the patient
with the most appropriate therapies, which include techniques in hands on
therapy, manipulation (cranial, extravertebral, and spinal), nutrition, “reflex
therapies” (Chapman and Bennett), and meridian therapy (traditional Chinese
medicine). Included also are the assessment of and treatment for exercise,
diet, stress, and other lifestyle factors.
Conclusion: This in depth presentation of the
scientific studies underlying the methods used in AK, combined with the
dramatic clinical outcomes that result from AK therapy can help practitioners,
students, and patients find support for AK methods. We must not only understand
the art and science of our profession, but also be ready to teach others in the
same light. The scientific rationale behind the AK approach to patient care is
important to this endeavor. (Collected Papers International College of Applied
Kinesiology, 1998-1999;1:91-110)
Key Indexing Terms: Kinesiology, Applied;
Validation Studies [Publication Type]; Reproducibility of Results; Methodology;
Systems Analysis; Review [Publication Type]
THE WALKING TRIAD
Eric Kees Peet, D.C.
ABSTRACT
Objective: To describe a new conceptual model about
how the body and the cranium interact.
Clinical Features: Utilizing the technique of
triplaner cranial analysis (whose origins come from functional dentistry and
were introduced into AK by Dr. Bob Walker) to compliment postural analysis,
asymmetrical relationships between the body’s geometry and the cranium’s
geometry can be observed. A certain pattern of cranial fault will correlate
with the pyramidal pattern of muscle weakness found in patients. The effect of
improper aerobic metabolism upon the pyramidal pattern of muscle weakness is
described. The trigeminal nerve’s effect upon the cranium is delineated. The
neurological disturbances of cranial faults are reviewed, with specific
descriptions of the sphenoid, occipital, and temporal bones. Specific findings
related to cranial faults are described, helping to better diagnose patients.
Intervention and Outcome: Cranial geometry is
variable depending on the muscle tension pattern, and this can be altered with
AK techniques and sustained by aerobic metabolism. The treatment for the
cranium and the aerobic metabolism is reviewed.
Conclusion: When a
patient’s metabolism is chronically anaerobic, the pyramidal distribution of
weakness influences the cranial structure by a chronic tension imparted from
the TMJ musculature. This alters the cranial geometry over time in a
predictable pattern. These patterns can be observed using triplaner cranial
analysis, and confirmed using neurologic testing and AK techniques. (Collected Papers International College of Applied
Kinesiology, 1998-1999;1:133-147)
Key Indexing Terms: Musculoskeletal Abnormalities;
Skull; Biological Markers; Biochemical Phenomena, Metabolism, and Nutrition;
Treatment; Chiropractic; Kinesiology, Applied
APPLIED KINESIOLOGY MANAGEMENT OF ACUTE OTITIS MEDIA AND
SEROUS OTITIS MEDIA: THREE CASE HISTORIES
Cecilia A. Duffy, D.C., D.I.B.A.K.
ABSTRACT
Objective: To present two cases of acute otitis media
and one of serous otitis media that was successfully managed with AK technique.
Clinical Features: Case 1 was a female age 11 who
presented with complaints of right-sided earache, sinus drainage, nausea and
shakiness for 2 days. Examination of the ear canal revealed erythema with the
tympanic membrane bulging with fluid and loss of tympanic landmarks. Case 2 was
a male age 7 with complaints of left sided earache and sore throat for 2 days.
Examination of the ear canal revealed an erythematous tympanic membrane with
fluid and bubbles noted on the inferior aspect. Case 3 was a male age 6 who
presented with hearing loss of 2 months duration. The patient’s audiologist
stated there was a 30% reduction in hearing in both ears. Examination of the
ears was negative for fluid or bubbles behind the tympanic membrane.
Intervention and Outcome: Case 1 was treated once for
diaphragm imbalance with reactivity of the left psoas muscle (when the psoas
was contracted, the diaphragm test became positive); fascial release of the
right pectoralis minor muscle; reduction of subluxations at the right occiput,
T4, and fixation of the C7-first rib bilaterally. Nutritional supplementation
consisted of thymus extracts, vitamins A and C, calcium and magnesium
(Congaplex from Standard Process labs). Dosage was 1 every waking hour. Two
days later, the patient’s symptoms were much reduced. 1 week later, the patient
was asymptomatic. Case 2 was treated twice in a 4-day period. Treatment
involved fascial release of the left sternocleidomastoid muscle and reduction
of a C1 subluxation. Nutritional supplementation of calcium and magnesium and
Congaplex was given. The second visit showed the sore throat as cleared, but
the earache remained. Treatment involved fascial release of the right
pectoralis minor muscle; neurolymphatic for the right sartorius muscle
stimulated; reduction of C2, T7, and category II ilium subluxations. 5 days
later examination revealed no fluid in the middle ear and mild erythema to the
tympanic membrane, with no symptoms of earache or sore throat. Case 3 was
treated 5 times in 4 months. Treatment involved correction of subluxations of
the occiput, thoracic spine and pelvis; fascial release of the right and left
sternocleidomastoid and right pectoralis minor muscle; nutritional support for
the adrenal, thymus, parotid glands and proteolytic enzymes. The mother of the
patient reported that within 2 days of the first treatment, the patient’s ears
started popping and he was beginning to notice improvement in his hearing. Over
the next 4 months the patient, his parents and teacher noticed his improvement
in hearing. At the end of 4 months his hearing was once again normal.
Conclusion: Conservative measures for treating otitis
media, acute or serous, should be considered due to the over prescription of
antibiotic and steroid use and the inherent invasiveness of tube placement.
Other studies showing the effectiveness of chiropractic adjustment in otitis
media should be evaluated also. (Collected Papers International College of
Applied Kinesiology, 1998-1999;1:167-169)
Key Indexing Terms: Earache; Otitis Media with Effusion;
Case Management; Treatment; Chiropractic; Kinesiology, Applied
APPLIED KINESIOLOGY MANAGEMENT OF CHRONIC OSGOOD-SCHLATTER
DISEASE: A CASE HISTORY
Cecilia A. Duffy, D.C., D.I.B.A.K.
ABSTRACT
Objective: To present a case history of chronic (20
months) Osgood-Schlatter disease successfully treated with AK technique.
Clinical Features: An 11 year old female presented
with left knee pain of 20 months duration. The pain was over the anterior knee
with any physical activity and continued when the activity was halted.
Prolonged rest periods would provide relief of the pain. A medical orthopedist
performed an x-ray exam and diagnosed Osgood-Schlatter disease.
Intervention and Outcome: Examination of the left
knee revealed an enlarged tibial tuberosity that was painful to palpation.
Range of motion of the knee was normal and painless. There was bilateral pronation
of the feet. Structural corrections over a 2 month period included category I
pelvic lesion; fixations in the thoracic spine; left medial quadriceps weakness
corrected by neurolymphatic reflex and T10 subluxation reduction; left
sartorius weakness corrected by NL reflex and category II; left peroneus
tertius corrected by reduction of a lateral talus and posterior calcaneus
bilaterally; fascial release of the left hamstring; reactivity of the left
quadriceps to the left hamstring; and reactivity of the left psoas to the
diaphragm. Foot orthotics were prescribed for the bilateral pronation. She was
treated 4 times in a 2-month period and was rendered asymptomatic.
Conclusion: A case history of long standing
Osgood-Schlatter’s disease in an 11-year-old female is successfully managed to
an asymptomatic state using AK methods. (Collected Papers International College
of Applied Kinesiology, 1998-1999;1:171-172)
Key Indexing Terms: Knee Joint; Osteochondritis;
Case Management; Treatment; Chiropractic; Kinesiology, Applied
