Book Description

This book presents the latest information and research on the prevention and management of musculoskeletal pain and dysfunction. It introduces the reader to an approach to clinical management and prevention based on that research. This text's impressively thorough coverage makes it an indispensable text for both researchers and clinicians in the field of musculoskeletal pain and dysfunction. • Written by 3 of the foremost researchers in the field, the material features a high level of credibility and respect, unlikely to be found in any other reference on musculoskeletal dysfunction. • Coverage offers the most up-to-date information available, as it is based on the very latest research from the key workers in the field around the world • Practical examples demonstrate the clinical relevance of the research to the student and busy practitioner • The text presents a new, problem-solving approach to back pain assessment and management, based on the latest understanding of the anatomy, physiology and biomechanics involved. • Extensive illustrations, line diagrams, and photographs complement the text with visual aides. ... Read more

Book Description

Reviews (9)

for beginners and advanced
I find myself referring to this book again and again. I always recommend it as an introduction to the Alexander technique. It assisted me greatly when I was first taking Alexander lessons. It is still valuable years later as I refresh and review. Easy to read, entertaining, cogent, and reflective. It reads almost as though you were having conversation with Mr. Gelb. If I had to use one book to introduce a new person to the Alexander technique, theory and understanding, this would be the one.

Body Learning - Gelb
I am a music major, and I am now in my third semester studying the Alexander Technique. This study has been the most important event in my musical life, and thankfully, it carries over into every other aspect of my life, as well. This book is the required reading for the course. Not that we get a grade on it. It's just immensely helpful. It's not a substitute for a trained Alexander teacher, but it provides another view point, a new way of putting things, of phrasing things, and can help the early AT student grasp the concept of it all a little better. I highly recommend this book to anyone wishing to learn more about the Alexander Technique, and improving the quality of your life.

One of the best introductory books on the Technique
The other intro book at this level is Chris Stevens' "Alexander Technique."

I used to rank Stevens ahead of Gelb, but the new edition of Body Learning has expanded coverage on practical matters like finding teachers and the nature and purpose of lessons. The two books are dead even now.

Some readers may be frustrated because the book (and its subject) are so radically different from the usual self-help dreck. One of the best new passages is one where Gelb explains that, at his publishers insistance, he will include a do-it-yourself Alexander 'exercise.' The exercise consists of picking up the telephone and scheduling a lesson!

Deciding to study the Alexander Technique may be one of the smartest decisions you ever make. The clear explanations in this book should help you before and after this decision.

An introduction that is unsatisfying
I don't recommend this book if you want to learn anything at all about how this technique is actually practiced. The impression one gets from the book is that apparently only Alexander himself and a few other self-interested "disciples" (read: current Alexander school directors) are intellectually talented and/or physiologically gifted enough to learn this magical technique and teach others, so you are left still wondering at the end of the book what the point was of reading it in the first place.

Good introduction to the Alexander Technique.
Gelb's book is clearly written and easy to understand - something much needed with the Alexander Technique as there is so much mis-information about it around. If you have any stress-related condition, I'd certainly suggest finding an Alexander teacher and giving the Technique a try. I'd also suggest getting this book and/or Fitness Without Stress by Robert Rickover, which is also an excellent introduction to the Technique. ... Read more

Reviews (1)

The Bowen Technique
What a great book! I only wish that it had been available when I was training in the technique over the last few years. That doesn't mean that it will be of no use to those who are qualified. It shows the work in a simple precise way with very clear pictures. It is a wonderful tool for the training therapist in this very gentle hands on therapy. A great reminder of where the moves are to go. I have it on my bookshelf next to my notes, if in doubt I check the book! The pictures remind me of exactly where to work.
I thank Julian dearly for his energy and love of a technique that in some form or other I feel the NHS will grab with both hands, due to it's ability to be used from the cradle to the grave. ... Read more

Book Description

Physical Therapist Assistant Examination Review, Fourth Edition is a two-volume set of PTA review books, and a FREE software program. This is the most current and extensive review on the market for the physical therapist assistant. These are three products that the physical therapist assistant will want in their possession as they embark on their career paths. The latest edition of this two-volume set contains thirty-four chapters of condensed data information that consists of lists, charts, comparisons, outlines, and short definitions.There are over 400 sample exam questions that will help you learn to choose the best answer. Three computer-timed test opportunities of 150 multiple choice questions on the software program maximize your computer testing skills and assist with integrated learning. ... Read more

Reviews (1)

GREAT study material
This is GREAT study material for the CPTA test. I have not taken it yet but, those I know who have have done well. The disk that comes with the books is a RIP OFF. You can only acess the info on the disks 3 TIMES. So, if you can find the books w/o the disk, you may save a few $$$. ... Read more

Book Description

The Second Edition of this text takes readers through the anatomy, physiology, and pathophysiology of the cardiac and pulmonary systems, and covers assessment and treatment of cardiopulmonary disorders. It features new chapters on cardiac pulmonary transplantation and acute care. Certified clinical specialists have collaborated to create this reference source. ... Read more

Reviews (2)

Use by Student Physical Therapists
I have found this text to be an excellent introduction to the observation of motor development in infants for students in physical therapy.

AIMS Review
I have found this to be an excellent tool for the assessment of infants birth to 12-18 months. The score sheet is easy to use and the test allows you to evaluate the infant without a lot of unnecessary manipulation. I would recommend this to any therapist who needs an extra tool for infant evaluations. ... Read more

Book Description

The book discusses theories and physiology relevant to the manual treatment of chronic pain, especially as it regards the soft tissues of the lower body. Step-by-step protocols that address each muscle of a region and a regional approach to treatment are features that make this book unique. A structural review of each region, including ligaments and functional anatomy, adds value for new students and practitioners alike. ... Read more

Reviews (1)

worth a buy if you do not mind typos
Clinical Application of Neuromuscular Techniques is an alternative to Travell's Trigger Point Manual if you do not do TP injections. It has great pictures, well explained treatment techniques (if you are up to date with your anatomy and medical terms) and lots of references. The disadvantage are typos (the editor must have had a bad day and was unable to write the German words for the references right, but also some English words are off!) Parts of the text are repeated in the book twice, what I thought is unnecessary and only adds to the number of pages but not the quality of content. ... Read more

Book Description

This text provides comprehensive information on the theory and practice of massage therapy, successfully fusing the anatomical sciences with hands-on techniques. It covers the base of Swedish massage techniques, in addition to clinical massage, Asian bodywork techniques, spa techniques, seated massage, and adaptations for special populations--addressing history, equipment, hygiene and sanitation, technique, contraindications, communication and client management, alternative therapies, and business. An entire unit on anatomy and physiology reinforces a general understanding of anatomical science while focusing on practical information that is most important to the massage practitioner, such as specific benefits, contraindications, touch research, and adaptations of massage to each individual body system. Extensive pedagogy includes chapter objectives, famous quotations, chapter self-tests, mini-labs, notes from the author, FYI boxes, biographies, and other special boxes. Interactive skill-building activities encourage readers not just to read, but to think about, experience, and discuss topics, as well as write about their goals and aspirations. ... Read more

Reviews (5)

Wonderful
This is the best book I've found on Amazon that has all a person needs to know about starting massage. There's information on table heights, contraindications, business practices and everything else. I would recommend this to anyone interested in taking a massage course, or starting in the profession.

Good reference for national board massage exam
I used this book for the National Certification Examination for Therapeutic Massage and Bodwork. It is useful as good knowledge source for the massage techniques parts of the exam. It is also listed as a reference by the National Certification Board of Massage and Bodywork for the NCETMB. I also used the following books which were very good:
The Ultimate Study Guide for the National Certification Examination for Therapeutic Massage and Bodywork: Key Review Questions and Answers
(Volume 1) (ISBN: 0971999643)
(Volume 2) (ISBN: 0971999651)
(Volume 3) (ISBN: 097199966X)
These 3 volumes are well worth the money and it made my life easier because it helped me pass the test with flying colors.

Medically detailed & Belongs under Nursing as well.
Great book if your a nurse like myself.
It Gives clear Answers and is the easiest book to read you will ever find.If you can't answer a medical question after reading this book, you need glasses or need to actually start reading period.
All anatomical information you would need to pass an lpn nursing test is in this one book.
It covers every organ system in depth and is actually better than most nursing books because you are never left wondering about anything.
It is perfectly organized, clearly written & easily understood.
Has self tests in it that actually are a fair and helpful challenge to the student.
This book leaves no system or organ undiscovered.
As far as a massage book goes, it helps you clearly understand how the body works, how the body responds & why it responds.
But it is not helpful in relation to any techniques EXCEPT Strecthing & lengthening.I give it 4 stars as a massage book and a 5 plus star rating as a nursing book.
It's worth every dime you pay for it because you won't need another anatomy book ever.

My brain is full now. May I be excused?
This is a respectable text for beginning massage students, and is full of great and interesting information. It's not the absolute last word in anatomy's role in massage, and shouldn't be anyone's only source of information, but as one text within a larger and complete curriculum, it's very useful. It's written at a fairly accessible level without being dumbed down. Sometimes it does get a little dry, but that may be the nature of the subject matter -- it's only so much you can jazz it up and still get the point across.

The book is now available from Saunders. Please update.
The book is now available from Saunders. Please update your information on the book. ... Read more

Book Description

Gait analysis is the systematic study of human walking. It is used for diagnosis and treatment planning in people with medical conditions that affect the way they walk. Most of the literature in the field is highly specialized and very technical. This book aims to bring gait analysis out of the 'ivory tower' of the research laboratory and put it where it belongs, in the 'real world' of the clinic. ... Read more

Book Description

The Myofascial Release Manual is now available in a new, thoroughly updated, and refined third edition. This improved and expanded book places a greater emphasis on hand placements that is reinforced with over 350 photographs. Three renowned experts in their own field, Sam Keggereis, PT, ATC, Steven Nowicki, PhD, and Robert Ward, D.O, have all contributed to this third edition, offering their unique insight and clarity into the technique of Myofascial Release. This timely book has a user-friendly format that concentrates on the specific how-tos of the myofascial techniques, as well as offering an explanation of the theory and experience of the method of Myofascial Release. The book begins by presenting the basic learning steps of the techniques, then takes the reader into the advanced techniques and evaluations. Additional resources such as posture evaluation forms and references are included at the end of the book, to augment the value of this superior learning tool.The Myofascial Release Manual, Third Edition is an essential manual that includes answers to commonly asked questions and does an excellent job of illustrating hand placement for many of the muscles in the body. Carol J. Manheim, MS, MEd, PT, LPC, renowned in the area of Myofascial Release, has developed this new edition to be modeled after her own extensive background, teaching experiences, and lectures. ... Read more

Reviews (2)

I wish Ward Wrote More
The author brags that Ward, who termed the phrase "myofascial release" and helped popularized it among mainstream American Osteopaths, was one of the co-authors but he only contributes two paragraphs regarding myofascial release. The book describes different techniques for different problems but the reader should be warned: Myofascial release is both clinician and patient dependent, so the book should only be a guide of what you could possibly do. Furthermore, myofascial release involves three parts: compression, traction and twist. The author just describes stretching in her techniques. Because myofascial release is so patient and clinician dependent writing a book on this particular technique is very difficult. The author has not been able to meet the challenge.

a practical book
This book is useful to help you apply the manual techniques of trigger point release. However,you will have to buy other books to have a complete guide about the practice of myofascial release. This book can help you. ... Read more

Book Description

Authored by an acknowledged expert on muscle and movement imbalances, this well-illustrated book presents a classification system of mechanical pain syndrome that is designed to direct the exercise prescription and the correction of faulty movement patterns. The diagnostic categories, associated muscle and movement imbalances, recommendations for treatment, examination, exercise principles, specific corrective exercises, and modification of functional activities for case management are described in detail. This book is designed to give practitioners an organized and structured method of analyzing the mechanical cause of movement impairment syndrome, the contributing factors and a strategy for management. ... Read more

Reviews (2)

Precision movement matters!
Having harrassed the author for close to four years I am pleased to say that this text represents what might best described an a "hinge in history". I agree that the concepts and examination items might be challenging for those used to a "cookbook" strategy but I am sure Shirley will agree that she did NOT invent anatomy or kinesiology! Systematic clinical examination, identifying movement deviations from mechanical precision and optimising efficient movement patterns are not large leaps of logic. Major car manufacturers and airlines have been doing this for years; analyse patterns of wear and tear on components and see what lasts the longest! However, humans in their comfortable/familiar patterns don't invest in the valid and rational practice of prevention and damage analysis. I know UK colleagues will take the path of least resistance when trying out the exam items within this book and say "Well it doesn't predict chronicity!" or "What about psychosocial factors?". To them and the pain biology fanatics I say this...when viruses, bacteria, trauma, genetics and family relationships have been analysed, what are the three primary drivers of nociception? Bogduk delineated the mechanical deformation model of nociception; Sahrmann has now thrown down the gauntlet with the movement paradigm to support or negate. Roll up your sleeves, break a sweat and join those of us liberated from surreal Southern Hemisphere skeleton pushing. Active rehabilitation with empiricism, determinism and a healthy cynicism! This text gives content and not just theory/process models - try telling a student that clinical reasoning is a valid model when they don't know what to look for!

Long awaited text for expert practice
Physical therapists like myself have been waiting for a text from the author for over 10 years. Definitely a text for someone well versed in the anatomy and mechaincs of the musculoskeletal system. This text is written in clear categories and deals with problems in three general areas. It takes effort and analytic thinking to understand the myriad of motions listed in the text. A CD with actual demonstrations would help immensely in seeing all the factors the author is illustrating. The introduction covers very complex ideas made as simple as possible by the author. I would recommend this text for any movement specialist but I would caveat my recommendation with the warning that hard work is needed to really grasp the techniques listed in this text. This author is saying things that need to be learned by movement specialists and only can be applied by an expert. ... Read more

Reviews (1)

Writing Soap Notes
Writing soap notes is exactly what I needed. It not only shows you how to write soap notes but also has exercises for you to complete. The correct answers are included in the back of the book. I would recommend this to any health care professional needing to learn or improve their soap note writing ability. ... Read more

Book Description

Whether it’s the tang of ozone in the air just before a rainstorm, the homey smell of freshly baked bread, or the inspiring scent of roses, natural aromas are everywhere with us, influencing our moods, and informing our perceptions. But natural aromas are capable of much more. Science is just beginning to reveal how aromas affect our bodies as well as our spirits, and what once seemed far-fetched–that you can treat many common ailments with nothing more than a pleasing smell–is now being taken seriously by many in the medical community. Yes, you can smell your way to good health, and now Aromatherapy For Dummies shows you how.

This down-to-earth guide takes the mystery out of essential oils and other aromatherapy tools, and shows you how pleasing scents can cure what ails you and enhance your life at home and at work. Among other things, you’ll discover how to:

• Safely and easily treat hundreds of common ailments
• Increase f ocus and concentration
• Relieve tension and relax
• Improve athletic performance
• Enhance romance
• Sniff out the right essential oils
• Create fragrant essences in your kitchen

Under the expert guidance of one of America’s leading botanical experts, you’ll bring the wonders of aromatherapy into your own life. Kathy Keville provides clear, concise, scientifically informed explanations of how plant essences can support body, mind, and spirit. She offers common sense advice on everything from therapeutics and cosmetics to the recreational uses of essential oils. And she supplies:

• Easy-to-follow instructions on how to select genuine aromatherapy products
• Symptom Guide–simple and easy remedies for 60 common conditions, listed alphabetically by symptom
• Aroma Guide–an A-to-Z guide of fragrant plants used in aromatherapy
• More than a hundred recipes for everything from oily skin to indigestion that you can whip up at home in five minutes

The world is full of natural fragrances that can help you feel better, work smarter, play harder, and relax. It’s time to get well with the healing power of smell, and now Aromatherapy For Dummies shows you how. ... Read more

Reviews (1)

This should be the first book you should read !
I was looking at several aromatherapy books before actually buying one. I must have looked at dozens of books..Being a beginner, this was by far the most entertaining and educational book out there on aromatherapy! Many books are very informative, but not a particularly interesting read. In this case, the humour and easy going manner of the book makes you want to read on and on. The chapters are well organized, and there is even a symptom & oil directory. If you are just beginning, this is the book to start your aromatherapy collection!!!! ... Read more

Book Description

Education is the lifeline that can help spinal cord injured patients return to productive, healthful livesor begin life anew.Inside the Spinal Cord Injury Handbook, patients, family members, healthcare providers and attorneys learn the six major arenas that make up optimum health and rehabilitation success.These include mobility, skin care, sexuality and myths that pervade society. ... Read more

Reviews (2)

Excellent Book
This book is an excellent resource for general public and professionals who are interested in the theme of spinal cord injury (SCI). It uses clear language and also good humor. All to help you understand the important basics of SCI and also to help you survive to SCI. I am using it for my doctoral dissertation as an excellent reference. Congratulations to the authors! I highly recommend this book.

The Spinal Cord Injry Handbook
This book was great. It told about the various types of spinal injuries and how each injury is different based on where the injury was located and how it affected your body and daily life skills.

It also gave insight as to what the family has to deal with as well as the patient.It also covered everything from what a spinal cord injury was to diagnosis and treatment;skin care; rehab;bladder and bowel management and caregiver relief. This is the A-Z book when in comes to spinal injuries.

I found in very informative as my husband recently suffered a spinal cord injury at work and we were told that he would never walk again. However, we have been blessed and he is walking 100 ft w/a walker at a time and is slowly regaining movement in his lower extremeties and we hope that he will be back to his old self soon.

I am ordering this book for a friend who now has to deal with this same injury. Thanks... ... Read more

Reviews (4)

Helpful Yoga Series + Variety of Postures to Heal Ailments
This is by far my favorite Yoga book. I have been practicing Hatha Yoga for years (Hatha Yoga is the physical Yoga that is the most common form in the Western world), but have discovered that many of the techniques and sets of asanas (exercises) described in Yoga books were not very tuned in to Westerners. Acu-Yoga combines Acupressure and Hatha Yoga into a very palatable form for the common Westerner. It is the best book I've seen as of yet for anyone suffering an acute or chronic disease or symptom. There are symptomatic exercises for such discomforts as the common cold, sinus problems, menstrual tension to exercises for more serious problems such as hypertension and spinal disorders. I have often warded off an oncoming flu or cold by following some of the advice in Acu-Yoga. There is additional supplemental advice from Michael Gach, in terms of lifestyle and nutritional imbalances - and very effective solutions to bring our bodies back into a state of harmony.

For instance, on our natural resistance to illness, Gach writes: "An ancient Indian method for maintaining resistance against illness is to swing a thick branch or club back and forth. The Yogis would do this when they felt any illness about to come on, since it was common knowledge that the tensions which accumulate between the shoulder blades contribute to illness. The swinging motion helped break down this tension. Swinging a baseball bat around moves and stretches the shoulder blades to release the tensions that collect there."

He goes on to describe the exact acupressure points around the tips of the shoulder blades, and then delves into a Yoga asana to help alleviate the oncoming flu or cold. Every exercise is complete with both a photo and an illustration, which details precisely his written directions. I have a terrible time learning physical things from books, even when they have illustrations and photos, but I have never had difficulty from Acu-Yoga.

Even if you aren't prone to illness or a symptomatic approach isn't for you, Acu-Yoga is split into 5 parts: a general introduction to the philosophies and practices of yoga and acupressure, a series of exercises based on the meridians (channels) of acupressure, a whole-body self-treatment emphasizing flexibility of the spine, a series of exercises that balance the chakras, and then the Acu-Yoga postures that benefit specific conditions.

This is a perfect book for the Westerner just beginning to practice Yoga, and for anyone who has an interest in expanding their current horizons of Hatha Yoga and Acupressure.

Yoga for Beginners and Experienced Practitioners
This is the one book that I recommend for anyone interested in yoga and overall health. By combining postures with meridians, (flows of energy thruout the body)and specific organs of the body, the information gives the yoga practitioner a more complete sense of the benefits of that posture. This also allows for a better focus, more mindfulness of the posture and intent. The photos and essays are clear and easy to view. Enjoy!

Acu-Yoga
I'd agree that Gach writes a very straight forward and simple book. If you are a beginner to the acupressure/kinesiology world, you will easily understand the basics [with the aid of this book]. The book gives many useful points, but for general problems most of the time. His knowledge in some promblematic areas goes into more depth than others. So, if you are looking for help with a specific problem, little information might be given or non at all. For example, the book gives great explanations and cures for colds, indegestion, depression and headache, however, it explains very little about allergies and sinuses. Gach backs his explanations with a strong facts and basic common sense.

I think that the book could give a better explanation on how to stimulate points. The diagrams of the locations of points are very useful and understandable. Overall, the book is well organized and convienent. If done correctly, the Yoga exercises are very powerful. With just a couple of exercises you can be healed instantly. This book left me curious buy more books on acupressure and is great reference to find quick cures.

An excellent, informative introduction to acupressure.
Acu-Yoga is a well-written introduction to the use of basic yoga techniques to stimulate acupuncture points throughout the body, acupressure. 13 years ago, I cracked a vertebra and have had chronic low back pain ever since. The spinal flexibility series (among others) in Mr. Reed's book helped me control the pain caused by muscle spasm and return to normal function within a few weeks. Acu-Yoga also provides information about the chakras, the organ meridians and the eight regulatory channels, and how these energetic systems work to restore and preserve internal balance. For someone who is interested in using gentle, self-paced exercise to relieve pain and improve in overall health and vitality, this is an excellent resource. ... Read more

Reviews (1)

Gua Sha: Atraditional Technique for Modern Practice
Gua Sha is a technique that uses a skin lubricant, such as massage oil and a simple chinese ceramic soup spoon (no sharp edges now!). It's a life saver for the tired figers of those who have to give massages to those with tight, fibrous, ropy or crunchy muscles. I first came across this book at an acupuncture conference in 1996. It was one of my best purchases of the year. The book covers in depth, a topic only glanced upon in most acupuncture schools. It's technique is not just for acupuncturists. I believe it's a must read for massage professionals, especially if your hands are starting to wear out from years of giving massage.

The beauty of the book is the pictures of the skin discoloration that may occur if you are very vigorous in your technique. They can be shown to clients as a form of informed consent. If you are more moderate in your technique, this extreme reaction will rarely occur past the first hour. However, a forewarned patient is one that will not sue you. Worth the price of the book right there!

Secondly, in most acupuncture schools, gua sha is largely taught as a technique for wind-cold invasion or stiff necks. My practice has included alot of chronic musculo-skeletal pain due to old sport injuries and the such. Before reading this book, I limited the technique to scapular and upper back pain, but after reading it, have confidentally expanded gua sha to every sort of muscular injury with great results. I have saved a number of people from exploratory surgery by removing pains of unknown etiology, thru the use of this technique and proper muscle knowledge. This is why I recommend it for massage therapists, physical therapists as well as Oriental and TCM practitioners.

This book includes a resource area that gives you ideas for what areas of the body to address for various ailments, if you are afraid to experiment on your own, or on yourself. I believe, if you add a recently published companion book by the same publishers concerning cupping (Cupping Therapy by Chirall), you will have a compementary set of low cost therapies for muscular aches (not to mention some other internal medicine applications), that are a very effective addition for any TCM or massage practice. ... Read more

Book Description

Developed by the author, SomatoEmotional Release is a technique for bringing psychotherapeutic elements into craniosacral therapy. It helps rid the mind and body of the residual effects of trauma by anatomically freeing the central channel of the body. John E. Upledger presents the history, theory, and practice of this subtle form of healing. 20 black-and-white illustrations are included. ... Read more

Book Description

Written in easy-to-understand language that's ideal for all bodywork therapists and acupressure practitioners, this popular textbook illustrates how to make precise, systematic evaluations of soft tissue problems. It provides up-to-date information related to a specific range of therapeutic techniques. A new accompanying CD-ROM, complete with video clips that demonstrate how to perform the methods described in the text, offers visual cues for unique, clinically relevant instruction. ... Read more