Manipulative Therapy in Rehabilitation of the Locomotor System, 2d ed.

The author presents an English-language version of a textbook that was first written in Czech in 1966. The book is good reading for any practitioner of the healing arts; however, it has a strong osteopathic affinity. This edition focuses on manipulation and its effect on impaired function of the locomotor system.

The author's coverage of the subject matter is comprehensive. The book consists of 10 chapters. The first 2 chapters address the origin of pain and its influence on the locomotor system. Chapter 1 offers an interesting history of manipulative therapy and provides the reader with an understanding of both the development of and differences between the osteopathic and chiropractic scopes of treatment. Chapter 2 examines the theoretical considerations for the causes of movement restrictions and their relationship to pain and impaired function of the locomotor system.

The third chapter looks at functional anatomy and radiography of the spinal column. Whereas the coverage of anatomy was easy to understand, I found the radiographic information more difficult to follow. Chapter 4 is an excellent presentation on the examination of the locomotor system and possible disturbances. This chapter includes up-to-date examination techniques accompanied by 69 illustrations that complemented the text well. Chapter 5 addresses the different methods of treating lesions of the locomotor system. Although the author uses most of this chapter to describe indications for manipulative management, he does briefly present his views on traction, soft tissue manipulation, reflex therapy, massage, electrical stimulation, acupuncture, pharmacology, braces and supports, surgery, and remedial exercise.

The "meat" of the book is in chapter 6, which details therapeutic manipulative techniques for most of the extremity joints and spinal column. The author does a fine job of presenting the techniques in a clear, concise, and organized manner. This chapter also contains 148 illustrations that immensely help the reader to distinguish correct hand placement and proper direction of force when utilizing manipulation.

Chapters 7 through 10 address clinical aspects of disturbed function of the locomotor system, principles of prophylaxis, the traumatic effect on impaired function of the locomotor system, and the role of manipulation today and in the future. These short chapters include many interesting observations and provide a fitting conclusion to the text.

This book is well written and well organized. It contains an extensive 23-page bibliography. There are numerous tables and illustrations that aid in the understanding of the text. The book could be used in graduate-level training of physical therapists specializing in orthopedics. It might also provide a useful reference for those who already include manipulation in their practice.