Foot Orthotics in Therapy and Sport.

Davis JM, Dolan MG, Hunter S. Champaign, IL 61825-5076, Human Kinetics Publishers, 1995, paperback, 141 pp, illus, $35.

The purpose of this book is to provide step-by-step instruction to physical therapists, athletic trainers, and other sports medicine practitioners in the fabrication of temporary and permanent orthoses. The authors accomplished this by discussing various techniques, equipment, and kits that can be used. They also included information on the costs, the ease of use, and the efficacy of orthotic use with various patient populations.

There is a logical flow to the book. Earlier chapters are devoted to the scope and background of orthotic therapy, and later chapters deal with casting and fabrication. The chapters on casting and fabrication techniques are written in a step-by-step format that assists the reader in duplicating the process.

The book provides a thorough background of the general principles of orthotic therapy. Chapter 1 provides the reader with various definitions, indications for use, and descriptions of the components of the arthoses. Chapter 2 deals with the relationship of foot biomechanics and lower-extremity pathology. This informs the reader about abnormalities that occur during the various phases of the gait cycle, their ramifications, and the need to correct the abnormalities. This chapter includes a noteworthy chart that outlines various theories from experts in the field on the effects of pronation on anterior knee pain. Chapter 4 provides a basic overview of the biomechanical examination, which is a specialized evaluation of the relationship of the foot to gait and function. The authors are quick to point out that a thorough orthopedic assessment that includes the biomechanical examination is essential to gain a clear picture of patients and their problems. Chapter 6 is devoted entirely to the various equipment and materials used in casting and their properties.

Throughout the book, black-and-white photographs clearly illustrate casting techniques and various methods of fabrication and modification of orthotics. Text associated with the photographs is clear and direct. This book is a valuable resource for any practitioner who plans on fabricating arthoses inhouse.

Carrie Silver-Bernstein, PT, CSCS Team Conditioning Concepts Coventry, Conn

Ms Silver-Bernstein is Owner, Team Conditioning Concepts, and specializes in the rehabilitation and conditioning of athletes of all abilities, from recreational to professional.