Joint Structure and Function: A Comprehensive Analysis, 3d ed.

Joint Structure and Function: A Comprehensive Analysis, ed 3 Levangie PK, Norkin CC. Philadelphia, PA 19103, FA Davis Co, 2001, hardcover, 512 pp, illus, ISBN 0-8036-0710-5, $45.95.

In the first edition, Levangie and Norkin produced a transdisciplinary text that encompassed the basic theories in biomechanics, muscle physiology, joint structure, and coordinated muscular function that readers needed in order to understand normal and pathological function. These theories would provide the foundation for understanding current trends in musculoskeletal examination, evaluation, and intervention.

Good work stands the test of time. Now almost 20 years later, the third edition informs the reader of new research and hypotheses in biomedical science, and it continues to provide students of kinesiology with a basic tool for understanding normal and abnormal function.

The organization of this book has not changed, and it is logical and appealing from a pedagogical perspective. The first 3 chapters present basic concepts in biomechanics, joint structure and function (including mechanical properties of biological materials and osteokinematic and arthrokinematic principles), and muscle mechanics. These concepts are subsequently applied and integrated in chapters 4 through 12 where individual joint complexes are presented using a cephalocaudal, proximal-distal approach. The text concludes with 2 detailed chapters on the biomechanics and motor control of posture and gait.

For the educator, the behavioral objectives, numerous up-to-date references, recommended readings, and study questions all make this text appealing. Sample static equilibrium problems, numerous line drawings, sketches, summary tables, and figures also complement the text. Printing the line drawings and figures in color would be beneficial (everything is in black and white), but they fulfill their purpose overall. A nice and somewhat distinctive feature of this biomechanical text is its application of kinesiological principles to the understanding of common pathological conditions, which can be found at the conclusion of most chapters.

I have used the previous editions of this text for at least 10 years and believe that the new edition is accurate, well written, and readable. In their attempt to include current research methods and findings, the authors have provided many facts and details that document specific principles. The abundance of facts, however, may obscure some basic concepts, and students may sometimes need help recognizing the bigger picture of the material presented in the text. In addition, the authors have neglected to include recent work regarding sacroiliac (eg, the 3rd Interdisciplinary World Congress on Low Back and Pelvic Pain) and thoracic cage kinematics (eg, Diane Lee's book Manual Therapy for the Thorax: A Biomechanical Approach [1994]). In my situation, therefore, I must provide students with supplementary foundational material on the sacroiliac and thoracic joints.

All in all, because of its comprehensiveness and the authors' continued efforts to remain current, Joint Structure and Function remains one of the best texts available for students in the health care professions who need to understand human kinesiology. This book also would be a good reference for practitioners who need to brush up on kinesiological principles.

Gordon J Alderink, PT
Grand Valley State University
Allendale, Mich

Mr Alderink is Assistant Professor in the Physical Therapy Department. He teaches kinesiology, biomechanics, and differential diagnosis in orthopedic physical therapy. He also directs clinical and research gait analysis activities at the Motion Analysis Center at Mary Free Hospital & Rehabilitation Center.