Applied kinesiology (AK) involves a series of tests to determine weakness in specific muscles that reflect imbalances throughout the body. Massage or acupressure techniques are then used for re-balancing. Kinesiologists believe they can detect and correct body imbalances before they develop into disease.
Musculoskeletal Manipulations
Osteopathic and chiropractic medicine focus on the body's ability to heal itself. One of the techniques used is to manipulate bones -- especially the spine to alleviate back pain and pressures or nerves. Many practices in sports medicine and massage also use these techniques, including acupressure and applied kinesthesiology.
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This question actually has two different answers. Bowen therapy, in the field of Marriage & Family Therapy, is a family systems model of therapy developed by Dr. Murray Bowen, MD. Dr. Bowen was a psychiatrist who theorized that current problems or concerns experienced by an individual could be addressed by investigating emotional connections, patterns, and dynamics “transmitted” over multiple generations of one’s family members. The individual could then gain insight into any dysfunctional “transmissions”, thus eventually being able to improve his/her level of “differentiation of self.”
The other Bowen therapy was developed in the 1950’s by an Australian man named Tom Bowen. “Bowenwork “ was described as a gentle bodywork technique that resets dysfunctional tension patterns in muscles and nerves that are causing discomfort and pain. Pain reduction and relaxation are achieved when the gentle movements send neurological impulses to the brain creating energy surges. Practitioners of Bowenwork differentiate the technique from massage, acupressure or chiropractic in that there is no manipulation, adjustment or force used. The practitioner uses thumbs and fingers to gently move muscles and tissues. Both therapies have international followings. -
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National Academy of Sports Medicine answeredSee All 45 AnswersSelf-myofascial release (SMR) involves using a foam roll to reduce the tension in muscles. When using a foam roller, it is important to follow these guidelines: Place the roller perpendicular to the muscle being rolled, roll slowly until you find a tender spot and hold the roller in place for 20-30 seconds. There are a few contraindications to foam rolling, for example never roll over a joint (hip, knee, etc.) and avoid rolling more sensitive areas of the body (neck, abdominals, low back, etc.). Be sure to speak with your doctor before foam rolling if you are on any medications, have any other symptoms or to rule out any injuries and to receive appropriate treatment. -
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Jeremiah Forster, NASM Elite Trainer , Fitness, answeredSee All 3 AnswersI have found the WBV to be very effective for flexibility, range of motion and recovery. Many times holding a stretch on the WBV or applying a foam roller can deepen the stretch or increase the neural response increasing the range of motion. This may not be wise before strenuous or performance activities but would be perfect post training for improving range of motion from tightened muscles and improved recovery.
As mentioned above it can be great for circulation so light use before exercise can help improve blood flow and prepare the body for exercise.
In addition it is very difficult to do movements while on the machine and in use. Doing exercises (while monitored) can be extremely helpful because it increases the neural excitability and improves a persons proprioception. Increased blood flow and range of motion can be very beneficial but in my opinion the improved proprioception is probably the biggest advantage.
What is proprioception?
It is the input to the central nervous system from the sensory receptors that are responsible for the input from the position and movement of limbs. When you move or change position or the stabilization in your surroundings these receptors send signals to the central nervous system.
When proprioception is improved your are more efficient in changes in position or stabilization of surroundings.
i.e. - you improve your balance and stabilization.
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Dr. Robin Miller, MD , Internal Medicine, answeredSee All 8 AnswersAcupressure is a practice that uses pressure rather than needles at specific acupuncture points. The theory behind its use is the same as that for acupuncture, which is that there are forces in the body known as Yin, which is cold and passive, and Yang, which is hot and active. When these forces are balanced, there is health. When they are unbalanced there is illness. In addition, there are meridians or channels of energy known as Qi (pronounced chi) that run through the body. When there is imbalance between Yin and Yang, these channels can become blocked or stagnant. By stimulating acupuncture points on the body either by pressure or with needles, these channels are opened and Qi begins to flow freely, which restores balance and allows healing to take place.
Pressure can be applied with a finger or a device. One well-known acupressure device is a bracelet often used by women with morning sickness. It applies pressure to the acupuncture points on the wrist, which helps to relieve nausea. Since acupressure does not use needles, it is easy to do and you can do it on yourself, provided you know the proper points. -
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Dr. Mehmet Oz, MD , Cardiology (Cardiovascular Disease), answeredSee All 5 AnswersWhen you’re stressed, do you feel it in your head, neck, shoulders or stomach? Alleviate the pain of stress with acupressure, a method that’s as simple as it is free. Watch Dr. Oz demonstrate how you can try it at home.
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Dr. Maoshing Ni, PhD, LAc , Geriatric Medicine, answeredSee All 2 AnswersThe next time you have a headache, a stuffy nose or insomnia, try using your own hands to heal yourself with acupressure. Acupressure follows the same principles as acupuncture, but you stimulate the energy points with your fingers instead of needles. Research has shown that acupuncture and acupressure exhibit effectiveness in treating a wide variety of conditions, including lower back pain, arthritis, carpal tunnel syndrome, nausea, addiction, insomnia and diabetes.
Here's how to do it:
First, make sure you have found the exact acupoint. They are only about 0.5 mm in diameter, so be as precise as possible. Use your index finger or a ballpoint pen (with the lid on) to press the point. If you are not feeling any sensation, try different spots close to the area until you feel a slight soreness. Keep your pressure moderate, and be patient: You may need to perform acupressure on the same point a few times a day over the course of several days to feel the results. Acupressure can sometimes be a gradual healing process. For best results, relax and breathe deeply during the acupressure.
Sinus support: For immediate relief of sinus allergies, use your fingers to stimulate the acupressure point "Welcome Fragrance" on both sides of your nose, where your nose and cheek meet. Apply moderate pressure with both index fingers, one on each side of the nose. Hold for three minutes.
Relax and relieve insomnia: Stimulating "Gate of Spirit", the number-one point for emotional issues (especially excessive anxiety and worry) can calm the spirit and help relieve insomnia. With your left hand palm-side up, find this acupoint at the end of your wrist crease, just below your little finger. Apply moderate pressure with your right thumb, holding for five minutes. Repeat on your other hand.
Alleviate headaches and pain: “Valley of Harmony” is often used to bring relief from pain, and is considered good for the immune system. It is also helpful for cold and flu, cold hands and feet, constipation, eczema, headaches, menstrual disorders, sinus problems, sore throat and ulcers. It is found in the center of the web -- or the “V” -- between your thumb and index finger on both hands. Apply steady pressure with your opposite thumb until you feel a slight soreness, and hold for two minutes. Repeat on your other hand. -
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Jill Blakeway, MS, LAc , Alternative & Complementary Medicine, answeredThere are very specific acupressure points for sinus congestion relief. In this video, acupuncturist Jill Blakeway describes these points, and demonstrates an acupressure exercise that will help relieve the symptoms of sinus congestion.
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Dr. Daniel Hsu, DAOM , Alternative & Complementary Medicine, answeredYes, acupressure or acupuncture can help with symptoms such as headaches, constipation, nausea, insomnia and lower back aches in anyone including pregnant women. In my experience, both acupressure and acupuncture are soothing and safe forms of treatment for all women in all stages of pregnancy. -
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Debra Fulghum Bruce PhD , Healthcare, answeredUnlike massage, which is hands-on healing, therapeutic touch is based on the assumption that a "human energy field" extends beyond the skin. The idea behind therapeutic touch is that this human energy field is abundant and flows in balanced patterns in health but is depleted and/or unbalanced in illness or injury. Practitioners work to restore health by sensing and adjusting such fields. Proponents say therapeutic touch can heal wounds, relieve tension headaches, reduce stress and pain, and facilitate "the body's natural restorative processes."