In the pursuit of genuine healing, it is essential to move beyond mere symptom management and dive deep into understanding the underlying causes of our physical and emotional discomfort. In this article, we will explore how Therapy Localization (TL), a vital concept in the world of Applied Kinesiology, and its integration with Proprioceptive-Deep Tendon Reflex (P-DTR) techniques can help unearth these root causes, offering effective and holistic solutions to health concerns.
What is Therapy Localization (TL) in Applied Kinesiology?
Therapy Localization (TL) is a cornerstone technique in Applied Kinesiology (AK), a holistic approach to healthcare. Developed by Dr. George Goodheart, AK combines principles from chiropractic care, muscle testing, and Chinese medicine to evaluate and address imbalances within the body. TL specifically involves assessing muscular response to pinpoint areas of concern. The mechanism of TL is not completely understood at this time, but the theory is that we can interface with the central nervous system via the fine and crude touch receptors on the palmar side of our hand (or the patient’s hand) and cause a change in the nervous system’s response. For example, if we test a muscle and it tests weak, or “inhibited,” we can then use our hand to touch over various areas of the body and when we are over a problematic area that is related to the weak muscle, it will “flip” the test and the muscle will test strong. We can then go the that area that was touched and begin to assess for what kind of dysfunction might be present- muscle, tendon, ligament, fascial, organ, joint, etc.
Here is a video explaining how TL was discovered:
P-DTR®: Enhancing the Power of Therapy Localization
Proprioceptive-Deep Tendon Reflex® (P-DTR®) is an advanced technique that can significantly enhance the effectiveness of Therapy Localization. P-DTR® dives even deeper into the neural aspects of dysfunction. Once we have identified the area of TL that improves a muscle test, we can then go the that area that was touched and begin to assess for what kind of dysfunction might be present- muscle, tendon, ligament, fascial, organ, joint, etc. This is one way that P-DTR® is distinguished from other forms of manual therapy and even those kinds that use the concept of TL. Because we have a system to identify what type of dysfunction precisely is creating the weak muscles, we can treat it more efficiently and effectively.
Is Using Therapy Localization (TL) Beneficial and Effective?
The effectiveness of Therapy Localization and its integration with P-DTR techniques has been demonstrated in numerous clinical settings for years, but research is slow to catch up to proving its efficacy and reliability. There is one research study that shows some specificity and inter-tester reliability, but it’s scope is pretty minimal.
However, here are some key reasons why many individuals and practitioners find it beneficial:
Holistic Understanding: Because P-DTR® uses TL, it helps patients recognize that physical, emotional, and neurological factors are interconnected.
Personalized Care: By identifying specific imbalances unique to each individual, practitioners can create tailored treatment plans. Each time we do a session with a patient, there will be new places to TL and locate sources of dysfunction. This helps a person understand that there is no recipe for healing, we are all unique with unique needs.
Long-Lasting Solutions: By addressing the root causes of symptoms, using TL within the context of P-DTR® aims to provide long-lasting relief rather than just temporary relief from symptoms. TL helps us focus our treatment, and the intricate and detailed testing of P-DTR® helps us finely tune what our treatment will be.
Empowerment: Clients who undergo treatment with TL and P-DTR® often report feeling more empowered and in control of their own healing journey. A better understanding of the causes of their symptoms allows them to actively participate in their treatment. We can use our findings with TL to explain how we think the body is working and attempting to create balance, which increases trust in us as practitioners and in the body itself.
Preventative Potential: P-DTR® and TL can also be used as preventative tools, helping individuals maintain optimal health by identifying imbalances before they manifest as symptoms. TL can also help us find hidden dysfunctions, by finding spots in the body to touch that cause a muscle to go weak that previously tested strong. We call this “tertiary hunting” and it is a fun way to look for a whole set of problems that are creating inhibition of a certain muscle or muscle function.
In a world where quick fixes and symptom management are prevalent, Therapy Localization (TL) and its integration with P-DTR techniques offers a refreshing alternative. By delving into the root causes of symptoms, practitioners in the field of Applied Kinesiology empower clients to achieve profound and lasting health and well-being. If you are interested in experiencing P-DTR® for yourself, please reach out to us or make an appointment. We look forward to exploring with you!
