The structural aspect of health makes up the base of the triangle. Structural elements of the body are of primary importance for wellness and optimal health. Joints must be aligned in order for all the muscles, organs and glands to be properly innervated for optimal function. Weak muscles, tendons and ligaments must be strengthened and regenerated to support proper joint alignment, allowing nerves and blood vessels unrestricted access to all parts of the body.
Structural integrity intimately influences biochemistry and emotional health.
It is obvious that someone may need structural corrections if they hurt their back or develop an ankle or knee injury. But structural treatment is important in another sense. Structural imbalances in the spine, extremities, and cranial bones lead to biochemical problems. Conditions such as anxiety, indigestion, hypertension, allergies and hormonal imbalances typically involve structural problems that contribute to biochemical changes.
Structural integrity is also important for emotional well being. Muscle and joint imbalances can cause nervous system dysfunction which may lead to irritability, anxiety, depression, learning disabilities, migraine headaches and increased stress. Chronic pain, due to a structural problem, results from nerve irritation, causing fatigue, adrenal burnout, and insomnia. Nerves control all the muscles, organs and glands and nerve irritation compromises their function, thus affecting the whole body in various ways.
Modern medicine utilizes the idea that biochemical dysfunction is the cause of disease in the body. Pharmaceutical drugs can be helpful for treating symptoms in the short-term. The primary consideration for correcting chemical dysfunction in the body is by eating right. However, our diet is only as good as what we digest, absorb, assimilate and utilize from the food we eat. We must make sure that all of our digestive functions are performing properly so that we can benefit from a proper diet. Dietary supplements containing vitamins, minerals, herbs, and hormones can help correct deficiencies and biochemical imbalances that stem from soil depletion, processed foods and inefficient digestion due to chronic disease.
Prolonged stress causes changes in stress hormones and increased inflammation, which inhibit digestion, immune function, and energy level. Most people who suffer from health problems experience these biochemical irregularities.
Biochemistry is also affected by exposure to toxins in our food and environment, as well as the toxic byproducts of infection. By taking a thorough history, interpreting blood tests, functional testing and the use of applied kinesiology, the doctor can target each individual’s weakest link in order to correct their biochemical dysfunction. However, in the Triad of Health, correcting one’s biochemistry often requires assessment and treatment of structure and emotions.
Our society as a whole is plagued by emotional difficulties. We see this in individuals as well as in groups of people. Mental and emotional stress both cause and result from biochemical dysfunction. For instance, blood sugar imbalances, allergies, and toxicity contribute to emotional and neurological conditions like depression, hyperkinesis, anxiety, anger management and impulse control issues.
Structural imbalances from brain injuries and physical trauma cause nervous system dysfunction. This results in mental problems, including confusion, learning disabilities, irritability and even psychosis. Both biochemistry and physical structural problems contribute to emotional issues such as PTSD.
The total concept of health: The sides of the equilateral triangle are in balance with each other. When there is a constant structural problem, the discomfort or pain may influence the person’s emotions. Emotions affect the digestive system, and stress interferes with optimal digestion. This affects the chemical side of the triangle as a nutritional deficiency develops and conditions such as malabsorption and dysbiosis develop. Muscles affected by gut inflammation and nutrient deficiency become weak, exacerbating postural and mobility problems, perpetuating the vicious circle of this intimate relationship between structure, biochemistry and emotions.
With Applied Kinesiology, we can diagnose the source of a health problem, correct it, and then demonstrate the improvement with posture, gait and a return to optimal balance and strength. This results in symptomatic relief and eliminates obstacles to the innate healing ability of the body.