Wednesday, November 23, 2016

Kinesiology – An Understanding of the Subject

Kinesiology refers to the study of human and non-human body functions, movements and performance through the application of anatomy, physiology, psychology, neuroscience and biomechanics. To expand the understanding of Kinesiology on a larger level, the science includes studies of body motion of humans and animals using motion tracking systems through various methods for monitoring physical, physiological, muscle and brain activities as well as behavioral and cognitive functions. Kinesiology finds various applications in human-health – e.g. physical education, rehabilitation, strength and conditioning processes, occupational therapies, biomechanics, orthopedics, sports industries and many others.
In recent years, Kinesiology is becoming increasingly associated with Applied Kinesiology, which is a rather controversial medical diagnostic process not fully aligned with the requirements of mainstream medicine. Many functions of Kinesiology are broadly referred under ‘complementary therapies’ further compounding the issue. However, Kinesiology is one of the fastest growing therapies and is vigorously practiced in over 100 countries around the world.
Kinesiology encompasses overall holistic health disciplines that understands an individual’s wellbeing based on the ‘art of muscle monitoring’. Its origins began in the 1970s when alternative medicines and treatment started combining Western medical techniques and Eastern medicinal wisdom to arrive at methods to promote physical, mental, emotional and spiritual wellbeing.
What began as initial research into non-invasive healing sciences quickly grew into a vast science using muscle testing to gather information about the body’s functions, in relation to physiological and neurological functions. The effectiveness of the methods resulted from the way these practices worked in tandem with the body’s own innate healing processes to restore health and wellbeing and aid recovery quickly from illnesses.
Careers in Kinesiology
Kinesiology is a field or branch of scientific study and does not automatically allow individuals to practice the methodology on individuals. A basic degree in Kinesiology can lay the foundation for further graduate degrees in biomedical research and other professional programs like allied health and medicine.
A ‘Kinesiologist’ is not a professional or licensed designation in the United States and many other countries for medical practices; at best, this qualification allows individuals to provide consulting services, teach physical education, and engage in research related to human motor performance, rehabilitation, ergonomics etc.
In North America or Canada, however, kinesiologists can opt for further studies to earn a Master of Science (MS) or Doctorate of Philosophy (Ph.D.). It is a noted fact that many doctoral level faculties in Canada receive their training in related disciplines such as mechanical engineering, neuroscience, physiology or psychology. Interestingly, the world’s first kinesiology department was introduced at the University of Waterloo, Canada in 1967 and continues to be the leading force in the study of the science of human movement.

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