APPLIED KINESIOLOGY MANAGEMENT OF ATTENTION DEFICIT DISORDER AND HYPOTONIA
Harry Lefkowitz, D.C., D.I.B.A.K.
ABSTRACT
Objective: To present the case history of an adolescent male with attention deficit disorder and hypotonia successfully treated using AK methods.
Clinical Features: A 15-year-old male had been on 20 milligrams of Ritalin for 2 years. The boy had been exhibiting symptoms of ADD since he was 8 years old. Hypotonia, a diagnosis that can accompany ADD, is characterized by a loss of upper body muscle tone and poor coordination. The boy would act out in class and not pay attention. His homework would take an excessively long time. At age 13, after many attempts to help the boy succeed in school, his problem was exacerbated: he no longer wanted to attend school. The parents followed the school counselors' advise and gave him 20 mg of Ritalin. The parents stated that the boy had not made much progress in the 2 years he had been on Ritalin. Adverse reactions were exhibited such as difficulty sleeping at night and anxiety, with the boy being more withdrawn than previously. He had been experiencing coccygeal pain for 1 year.
Intervention and Outcome: During the examination the boy said nothing and his eyes were downcast. Neurological disorganization was found in the standing position, i.e. bringing the right leg forward weakened the contralateral arm flexors. Positive K27 testing was present in the standing position. Positive ocular lock testing was corrected by ocular muscle stretching from the Neural Organization Technique. Food testing showed positive findings with citrus, dairy, corn syrup and white flour. Nutrient testing was employed to discover what would negate the positive food tests. Cranial corrections, intestinal reflexes, and homeopathic neurotransmitter tests were performed, and nutritional support for these deficiencies given. 3 months after the initial intervention there was noticeable improvement in the speed with which homework was completed. The patient was able to stop using Ritalin with subsequent disappearance of the adverse reactions of sleeplessness and anxiety. The patient made good improvement in his behavior and academic performance following the above recommendations.
Conclusion: In view of the potentially addictive nature of Ritalin and its side effects, less aggressive forms of treatment for ADD would be invaluable. Larger clinical trials of this method of diagnosis and treatment would be welcome to determine if this single case history is applicable to other children with this disorder. (Collected Papers International College of Applied Kinesiology, 1996-1997;1:7-9)
Key Indexing Terms: Attention Deficit Disorder with Hyperactivity; Methylphenidate; adverse effects; Case Reports [Publication Type]; Treatment; Chiropractic; Kinesiology, Applied
COMMON STRUCTURAL FAULTS IN COMPETITIVE SWIMMERS
John K. Moore, D.C., C.C.N., C.C.S.P.
ABSTRACT
Objective: To report the findings of AK testing on a sample group of swimmers competing in the U.S. Olympic Trials.
Clinical Features: AK testing was done on 15 swimmers competing in the 1996 U.S. Olympic Trials. 5 different musculoskeletal areas were randomly chosen for evaluation. Each of these tests was performed on each swimmer during the week long swimming event. Results were converted into percentages for presentation.
Intervention and Outcome: Incidences of structural faults among these elite athletes follow. Cervical subluxation: 93%. Latissimus Dorsi muscle weakness: 47%. Positive coccyx challenge: 40%. Supraspinatus muscle weakness: 27%. Temporal bulge cranial fault present: 13%.
Conclusion: It is evident that in this small sampling of elite athletes many hidden structural problems exist. One can wonder how many athletic injuries are due to an accumulation of these asymptomatic structural faults that over time allow overt injuries to occur. This study may show the importance for doctors who work with athletes and teams to check as many of the athletes they see as possible and not just those suffering with symptomatic injuries. (Collected Papers International College of Applied Kinesiology, 1996-1997;1:11)
Key Indexing Terms: Sports Medicine; Athletic Injuries; Epidemiology; Diagnosis; Chiropractic; Kinesiology, Applied
THORACOLUMBAR FIXATIONS DURING PREGNANCY CONTRIBUTING TO LOWER BACK PAIN - A CHIROPRACTIC STUDY OF 25 CASES
Victoria C. Arcadi, B.A., D.C.
ABSTRACT
Objective: To present a case series report on 25 women with gestation between 25 to 40 weeks who were successfully treated for thoracolumbar fixations and pain as their primary complaint, and lower back pain as a secondary complaint.
Clinical Features: Thoracolumbar pain is a common discomfort during pregnancy especially during the second and third trimesters. A review of the anatomical literature relating to the thoracolumbar spine (muscular, spinal, and fascial connections) is provided.
Intervention and Outcome: All 25 women were evaluated for thoracolumbar pain that was severe. Most of the women could not sleep, and their pain was constant. Concomitant with the thoracolumbar pain was lower back pain that was present in all cases as a secondary symptom. AK examination in these cases showed bilateral weakness of the lower trapezius (indicative of thoracolumbar fixation in AK methodology). Treatment consisted of chiropractic adjustments to the T12-L1 area of fixation, using Diversified technique to free the fixation. All other muscle weaknesses were treated using neurolymphatic reflex stimulation. The 25 women in this study were treated 1 or 2 times per week for 2 weeks and then once a week for the following 3 weeks. All pain associated with the thoracolumbar spine had been eliminated and lower back pain was between 75-80% relieved in each case in the study. In all cases the thoracolumbar pain was 90-100% relieved after the first correction of the fixation.
Conclusion: This study demonstrated a relationship between the thoracolumbar area and the lower back. With chiropractic treatment and adjustments, the thoracolumbar pain as well as the lower back pain was relieved. Chiropractic care has been shown a safe and effective treatment choice for pregnant women. The treatment regime offered here for women who suffer from musculoskeletal pains during pregnancy is conservative and cost effective. (Collected Papers International College of Applied Kinesiology, 1996-1997;1:21-23)
Key Indexing Terms: Pregnancy; Back Pain; Treatment; Case Reports [Publication Type]; Chiropractic; Kinesiology, Applied
SURROGATE TESTING: ITS HISTORY, CONTROVERSY AND RECOMMENDED USES
Hans W. Boenke, D.C., D.I.B.A.K.
ABSTRACT
Objective: To review the current literature on surrogate testing and draw conclusions on its utility for practitioners of AK.
Clinical Features: Dr. George Goodheart introduced surrogate testing into AK in 1974. He indicated that the use of therapy localization could be done with infants and small children using their mothers as well as with older individuals, such as those comatose or following a stroke, using another individual of the same sex. Surrogate testing is a procedure that utilizes MMT to help in the diagnosis of some disorder in a patient. The difference in this testing method is that the patient being examined is passive with regard to the actual test but is in physical contact with a second person, the surrogate. The surrogate or the patient touches the problem area and a previously intact indicator muscle in the surrogate is tested for a change in function. A review of the AK literature is given relating to surrogate testing. The reliability, the confidence level in the procedure, and the controversy of this procedure are described.
Intervention and Outcome: The following recommendations on the use of surrogate testing are made, partly based on conversations in 1996 with Dr. Goodheart. 1) Surrogate testing is an overused procedure. 2) Dr. Goodheart has found occasion to use it once in 3 years. 3) It should only be used on individuals that cannot be tested in any other way, such as comatose individuals or infants. 4) It should be done only after obtaining informed consent in writing after explaining it to the patient. (An informed consent form for surrogate testing is offered). 5) It is an experimental procedure.
Conclusion: The use of surrogate testing in general clinical practice is discouraged with the exceptions of specific patient populations. It is recommended that doctors follow the guidelines given by the Board of Standards of the I.C.A.K. so that any doctor involved in litigation, practicing responsibly, would have the support of the I.C.A.K. for the use established AK procedures. (Collected Papers International College of Applied Kinesiology, 1996-1997;1:27-34)
Key Indexing Terms: Investigative Techniques; Muscle Weakness; Diagnosis; Kinesiology, Applied
CASE HISTORY: CORRECTION OF INGUINAL HERNIA BY APPLIED KINESIOLOGY MANAGEMENT
Stephen J. Kaufman, D.C.
ABSTRACT
Objective: 2 cases of inguinal hernia successfully corrected by standard methods of AK are described.
Clinical Features: A 9-month-old male and a 45-year-old male presented with right inguinal hernias. The child's pediatrician and 2 pediatric surgeons confirmed the child's hernia. His testicles and surrounding area were bluish. There was a slight bulge over Poupart's ligament. The 45-year-old male had his hernia for 1 year. The patient was 50 lbs. overweight.
Intervention and Outcome: Because of the child's age, it was not possible to muscle test him directly. Postural assessment and clinical signs were assumed to be presumptive evidence of muscle imbalance, and treatment was directed to the origin-insertion, Golgi tendon organs, spindle cells, and neurolymphatic reflexes for the right psoas, adductor, sartorius, gracilis, abdominal, and rectus femoris muscles. Category II correction and treatment to the inguinal and ileofemoral neurovascular reflexes (Bennett's reflexes) were made. Vitamin E (Cataplex E) was given. Within several days, after being treated every other day, the patient's genitalia returned to normal color and the inguinal bulge returned to normal. A total of 8 treatments were given. The 45 year old had treatment to the sartorius, adductor, psoas, quadriceps, piriformis, gluteus medius, abdominal, tensor fascia lata, gluteus maximus and hamstring muscles by the usual AK approaches. Correction of an ileocecal valve syndrome, category II pelvic lesion, upper cervical fixation, and lateral occiput were also made. Cataplex E, E(2), F, and Calcium Lactate were given nutritionally. This patient had complete symptomatic relief of all signs of a hernia within 6 visits. This was obtained with no loss of weight.
Conclusion: These 2 cases show the successful management of inguinal hernias in a short period of time. Both of these cases were considering surgery at the time of chiropractic treatment. This approach to treatment for this problem is more cost effective than surgery, so larger clinical trials are warranted. (Collected Papers International College of Applied Kinesiology, 1996-1997;1:57-58)
Key Indexing Terms: Hernia, Inguinal; Muscle Weakness; Treatment; Case Reports [Publication Type]; Chiropractic; Kinesiology, Applied
INFERTILITY: SUCCESSFUL MANAGEMENT BY APPLIED KINESIOLOGY AFTER FAILURE OF MEDICAL TREATMENT
Stephen J. Kaufman, D.C.
ABSTRACT
Objective: To present a case series report on patients with primary infertility that were treated with AK methods that resulted in full term pregnancies.
Clinical Features: Infertility is distinct from sterility, implying potential, and therefore raises questions as to what insult or interference influences this sluggish outcome. 4 case histories are presented. All 4 subjects are female, ages 30-35.
Intervention and Outcome: AK chiropractic care and outcome are discussed for each patient. AK care is described over a period of 1 to 3 months; at the end of that time frame each of the 4 women had become pregnant.
Conclusion: The application of AK chiropractic care and subsequent successful outcomes on reproductive integrity, regardless of factors including age, history and medical intervention, are described. Future studies that may evaluate more formally and on a larger scale, the effectiveness, safety and cost benefits of AK chiropractic care on both well-being and physiological function are suggested. (Collected Papers International College of Applied Kinesiology, 1996-1997;1:59-60)
Key Indexing Terms: Infertility; Case Reports [Publication Type]; Treatment; Chiropractic; Kinesiology, Applied
XENOESTROGENS: WHAT THEY ARE, WHAT THEY MAY DO, WHAT CAN BE DONE
James C. Kreger, D.C.
ABSTRACT
Objective: To present a case series report on the treatment and outcomes of patients with suspected estrogen excess.
Clinical Features: Xenoestrogens are chemicals that have seemingly unrelated structures but have in common the ability to exert an estrogen-like influence on human tissues. Chemicals such as phthalates (a component of plastics), pesticides such as DDT, PCBs (polychlorinated biphenyls), APEs (surfactants from detergents), dioxins, BHA and other preservatives can link up with estrogen receptors on cells. A review of the biomedical literature regarding the effects of estrogen excess is provided.
Intervention and Outcome: MMT was used under the following premise. If tissue cell receptors are already fully loaded or abnormally stimulated by estrogen or xenoestrogens, then the addition of more estrogen into the body may produce muscular dysfunction and inhibition on MMT. A Premarin tablet was used in testing. 2 females (38 and 55 years of age) and 1 male (53 years of age) were found to have muscle weakness following exposure to the Premarin. To counteract this weakening, various supplements for estrogen elimination were tested to negate the weakness produced. The one that had the most consistent estrogen neutralizing muscle test response was the herb Dong Quai. The severe and varied symptoms in these patients improved rapidly after the use of Dong Quai.
Conclusion: A method that may detect an excess of estrogens and xenoestrogens is described. AK MMT provided a noninvasive testing procedure that gave positive clinical results. Further clinical trials on a selected population of patients with excess estrogen are warranted. (Collected Papers International College of Applied Kinesiology, 1996-1997;1:67-70)
Key Indexing Terms: Estrogens; Receptors, Estrogen; Selective Estrogen Receptor Modulators; Estrogen Antagonists; Drugs, Chinese Herbal; dong quai; Case Reports [Publication Type]; Treatment; Chiropractic; Kinesiology, Applied
A NEUROLOGICAL MODEL FOR THE THREE TYPES OF MUSCLE TESTING
Walter H. Schmitt, Jr., D.C., D.I.B.A.K., D.A.B.C.N.
ABSTRACT
Objective: A neurological model for 3 variations of manual muscle testing is proposed.
Clinical Features: 3 types of muscle testing are reviewed, called G1, G2, and G2 submax. These three differences in testing refer to "patient-initiated" or "doctor-initiated" muscle tests. G1 testing is done by the doctor asking the patient to resist as he increases his testing pressure to take the patient's muscle into eccentric contraction; this is doctor-induced muscle testing. The neurology involved in and the hypothesized meaning of MMT outcomes of these different types of muscle tests are reviewed.
Intervention and Outcome: The G1 test is the type of muscle testing most commonly used, and most AK therapies have been designed to correct this type of weakness. The G2 test indicates suprasegmental problems. These include chemical imbalances and nutritional needs that affect the hypothalamus and autonomic system, as well as stomatognathic system problems. The G2 submax. test relates to withdrawal reflexes following an injury, allergy and hypersensitivity type reactions, systemic functional endocrine imbalances, and visual motor problems.
Conclusion: The application of a neurological model for AK muscle testing procedures serves 3 purposes. First it forms the basis of hypotheses for research into the mechanisms of the discipline. Secondly, it provides a framework for the most appropriate application of the various clinical techniques that comprise AK. Thirdly, it provides a basis for further development of new and improved techniques for improved patient care. (Collected Papers International College of Applied Kinesiology, 1996-1997;1:79-81)
Key Indexing Terms: Muscles; Diagnostic Techniques, Neurological; Evaluation Studies; Kinesiology, Applied