Handbook of Pediatric Physical Therapy.

Long TM, Cintas HL, eds. Baltimore, MD 21202, Williams & Wilkins, 1995, paperback, 291 pp, $28.

The purpose of this book is to provide a succinct, comprehensive reference on the specialty area of pediatric physical therapy. The editors have created a pocket reference that can literally be carried by the therapist. They suggest that this handbook provides all of the essential information needed by any level of pediatric physical therapist to assess and evaluate children, develop and implement a treatment plan, and determine when assistance is needed. This book has been designed to eliminate the tedious search for information and is organized in an outline format, allowing for ease in accessing information quickly. The contributors are all pediatric certified specialists with a wide range of expertise. For the purpose of this book, the subject matter is covered in sufficient depth. The editors, recognizing an ever-changing health care delivery system, have developed a reference tool that can provide the therapist with the necessary information to initiate an intervention plan in an efficient manner, even when faced with time constraints.

The handbook is divided into six chapters. Chapter 1, "Growth and Development," focuses on the stages of development and on conditions and factors that may affect development. Chapter 2, "Measurement," provides some basic theory of measurement and interpretation of standardized tests. It introduces the reader to a variety of measurement tools, but advises the reader to refer to test manuals prior to administering and interpreting a standardized measure. Chapter 3, "Pediatric Disorders," utilizes the Nagi adaptation disablement model, organizing each disorder according to pathology and etiology, impairment, functional limitations, and treatment strategies. Chapter 4, "Adaptive Equipment," discusses the purposes of equipment unique to pediatric physical therapy. This chapter includes descriptions of treatment equipment, orthoses, and mobility devices. Chapter 5, "Locomotion," reviews developmental changes occurring in typical gait, outlining the advantages and limitations of numerous gait assessment methods. Atypical locomotion patterns are described, including variations in the development of gait as a result of environmental, physical, and cultural factors. Chapter 6, "Administrative Issues," addresses the philosophical, legislative, and regulatory issues of pediatric physical therapy. A "Resource" section lists advocacy groups, professional organizations, and clearinghouses.

Each chapter has been referenced in a "Sources" section in the back of the book. The references are valuable for those seeking more detailed information. It would have been helpful, however, to have the references within the chapters to know which references are represented by specific content.

This handbook is well written and understandable. It is organized logically, and the information is easily accessed. The numerous tables complement the text and are very effective, are informative, and understandable. I would recommend this book to any therapist, regardless of area of expertise. It is a wonderful reference for therapists at all levels of the profession who might have the opportunity to work with children. It it especially valuable for physical therapist students, who, because of their lack of experience with this population, require a reliable, comprehensive reference to provide them with necessary information to facilitate successful interactions with children and their families in clinical settings. I found this book more interesting than a traditional text and, possibly due to its conciseness and diverse content, I was compelled to read it from cover to cover.

Deborah E Thorpe, PT, PCS Allegheny University of Health Sciences Philadelphia, Pa

Ms Thorpe is a full-time doctoral student at Allegheny University of Health Sciences (formerly Hahnemann University), where she is working toward a doctorate in pediatric physical therapy with a focus on the effect of cognitive strategies on motor learning. She is also currently doing consultant work for an early childhood intervention facility in Philadelphia.