Fibromyalgia and Chronic Myofascial Pain Syndrome: A Survival Manual.

Starlanyl D, Copeland ME. Oakland, CA 94609, New Harbinger Publications Inc, 1996, paperback, 402 pp, illus, $19.95.

This text is designed to help those with fibromyalgia syndrome (FMS), myofascial pain syndrome (MPS), or a combination of both. It is written both for those individuals and for those who treat them and is intended to be used as an educational tool, treatment manual, and reference source. The text is comprehensive and addresses all aspects of these illnesses in terms that are easily understood. The authors, both of whom have FMS/MPS, relate their personal experiences and provide a thorough review of the available literature.

The text is divided into six parts. Part 1 defines and differentiates the terminology and associated conditions related to FMS/MPS. Part 2 discusses common symptoms of FMS/MPS and is presented in a question-and-answer format, much of which is related to Travell's work on trigger points. Part 3 contains related information on chronic pain, sleep, irritable bowel syndrome, flare or high-intensity pain, and pregnancy. Part 4, "Mind Over Matters," is most interesting and examines the connection between mind and body. Part 5 reviews treatment, both traditional and nontraditional, of FMS/MPS. Physical therapy treatment of FMS/MPS is placed under the term called "bodywork."

Included in the authors' definition of "bodywork" was craniosacral release, the Alexander technique, yoga, acupuncture, chiropractic manipulation, and the Feldenkrais method, to name a few. Part 6 discusses other issues affecting those with FMS/MPS, including family- and work-related issues, legal matters, travel, children with FMS/MPS, and how best to find the right medical supervision and treatment.

The text is easy to read and follows a clear progression. There are few illustrations in the book, and those are primarily of trigger points and referred pain patterns.

The book would most benefit those with FMS/MPS. Although the book is not targeted for physical therapists, it would help therapists who treat these illnesses gain a comprehensive understanding of FMS/MPS and its often ignored implications beyond the physical manifestation. The book should be read by those health care professionals who routinely treat patients with FMS/MPS.

Joseph M David, MS, PT, OCS, CSCS David Physical Therapy and Sports Medicine Center Pittsburgh, Pa

Mr David is in private practice and specializes in orthopedic and sports-related injury and myofascial release.