By Donna Eden

1.  Explicitly ask if it is okay to touch the client before making any physical contact. Be empathic and respectful if the client feels uncomfortable about being touched in any way and do no more than you have clear permission to do.

2.  Be sure that the limb being tested is not injured or compromised in any way that might be further hurt by the test.

3.  Clearly establish that if the client says “Stop” or another agreed upon signal, the practitioner will stop instantly. Also be clear that the client should tell you to stop if any pain is being experienced.

4.  Be alert for signs that a discussion is needed regarding how to proceed.

5.  After showing the client the position to be held and the direction you will be exerting pressure, ask the client to hold, giving notice that you are about to begin, and apply even, gradual pressure. A beginner’s error in energy testing is to “jump the gun.”

6.  Press for only 1 to 2 seconds.  Do not force the muscle; this is an energy test, not a test of muscle strength.  Stop if there is any pain.

7.  By starting with minimal pressure and only gradually increasing the pressure, you should be able to sense within 2 seconds that the muscle is staying locked or giving way with only a light touch. It is never necessary to use more than 2 pounds of pressure and 2 ounces will often do. There should, however, be enough pressure that both you and your client feel the muscle response.

8.  If the limb moves 2 inches or so and bounces back, the energy is moving through the muscle. Again, do not use force.

Touch for Health calls these last three points the “Rule of 2’s”:

• 2 pounds (maximum)

• 2 inches

• 2 seconds (maximum)