Good health is all about balance, including our muscular health. Muscles work in pairs: when one contracts, the other extends. Kinesiology helps to heal muscles by keeping them in balance. When one muscle contracts, the opposing muscle extends. Weak muscles are worked along with their stronger counterparts to produce a balanced pair. Kinesiologists restore balance to weak, spasmodic, or pulled muscles.

What is kinesiology?

Kinesiology is the assessment of movement and muscular performance and function. It also covers rehabilitation, prevention, and management of injuries. The study of human movement has existed for centuries, but the field of kinesiology has mostly emerged within the past ten years. Kinesiology is divided into two streams: clinical, which is used by physiotherapists and sports trainers; and applied, which combines manual muscle manipulation with Traditional Chinese Medicine. Both streams of kinesiology focus on restoring muscle balance.

What kinds of problems do kinesiologists treat?

Kinesiologists treat muscular-skeletal conditions like osteoporosis, chronic health conditions, and cardiovascular concerns. Kinesiologists often assess the ergonomics of the home and workplace to determine ways of minimizing muscle strain. Generally, a physician will provide the diagnosis while a kinesiologist directs the treatment.

What can I expect when I visit the kinesiologist? The kinesiologist will analyse your medical history, diet and lifestyle. You will also undergo a muscle test – where the kinesiologist gently presses the muscle to see how it is functioning. Kinesiologists may also conduct a Functional Capacity Evaluation, where they evaluate the entire body’s ability to perform a function. The test results will determine the direction of treatment.

What kinds of rehabilitation do kinesiologists suggest?

Kinesiologists will help you develop strength and flexibility. He or she may also make suggestions about improving your lifestyle and nutrition to ensure that your muscles get adequate fuel to function properly. While kinesiology focuses on rehabilitation, prevention is also important. A kinesiologist can do ergonomic assessments of the workplace and home to prevent injuries.