A Definition of Normotonic and Hypertonic Muscles in AK
Wolfgang Gerz, MD
text from Lehrbuch der Applied Kinesiology in der naturheilkundlichen Praxis, 2. Auflage, p. 15

Muscle Testing Rectus Femoris -
Associated with the Small Intestine Meridian
When a muscle has been identified as strong, a further differentiation must be used to determine if this muscle is hypertonic or normotonic.
In AK, a normotonic muscle is defined as one which is strong, but is perceived as weakening when one of the following procedures is used:

a) TL* to the sedation point of the meridian associated with that muscle, on the side of the muscle being tested.


Small Intestine 8 -
The Sedation Point for the Small Intestine Meridian

b) >running the meridian in reverse<:
The associated meridian can be contacted and stroked lightly, but quickly, with the palmar aspect of the hand, in the direction from the highest point to the lowest point on the meridian. This should inhibit the related muscle for approximately 10 sec.

The Small Intestine Meridian
flows from little finger nail to in front of the ear.
To weaken, stroke backwards from ear to little finger.

c) Spindle Cell Manipulation:
A contact is taken to the center of the muscle belly with two fingers approximately 5 to 10 cm apart in line with the muscle. Pressure is then applied sharply, 5 times, with both fingers toward each other (approximation of the muscle belly fibers). This should inhibit a muscle for up to 10 sec.

Spindle Cell Manipulation to Weaken Rectus Femoris

d) Either of the two poles of a strong, axially polarized magnet (minimum 2000 gauss), centrally placed upon the belly of the muscle. Regarding the effects of the N and S pole of magnets on the strength of muscles, seemingly contradictory responses have been observed.
Therefore, at this time, it is suggested that both poles be tested.

If none of the above methods causes weakening of the muscle, it is defined as hypertonic. It is recommended that at least two of the above procedures be used when evaluating the status of a muscle.
* Experience has shown that TL (touch while testing the muscle or tapping before testing the muscle) to the related sedation point to be the most reliable of the four techniques described above. - Ed.