Physical Therapy for Children.

Campbell SK, ed. Philadelphia, PA 19106-3399, WB Saunders Co, 1994, hardback, 945 pp, illus, $55.

The goal of the editor and associate editors of this text is to provide the first comprehensive reference book for the practice of pediatric physical therapy. They have marvelously accomplished this goal by providing a text that addresses inclusive coverage of the most common pediatric conditions, best practice characteristics, and critical wellness issues across the life span of persons with disabilities. Focus is placed on the process of disablement from the organ systems level to functional capabilities in natural settings. The National Center for Medical Rehabilitation Research model of the disabling process forms the basis for Physical Therapy for Children, creating a major focus on prevention of disability across the life span.

The text is divided into five sections. Each section is subdivided into chapters. Section I addresses motor, performance of children and clinical decision-making skills, forming the conceptual basis for subsequent chapters on specific pediatric conditions. Sections 2 through 4 of the book describe the pathophysiology and physical therapy management of pediatric musculoskeletal, neurologic, and cardiopulmonary conditions. Section 5 describes special settings and special considerations in the practice of pediatric physical therapy such as burns, the special care nursery, private practice, and medicolegal issues. In-depth case histories are presented in each chapter, helping to reinforce the content, in addition to physical therapy concerns that help delineate each of the dimensions of the disabling process. Intervention strategies emphasize the "team approach" and "family-centered" services with collaborative goal setting.

The validity and reliability of the information presented is consistently documented. Current, relevant research is discussed throughout the text, and reference lists are exhaustive. The editors continually challenge the reader to conduct single-subject-design studies to systematically examine the effects of specific interventions in an attempt to provide responsible and efficacious treatment for their clients.

Physical Therapy for Children displays uniform style and chapter organization among the multiple contributors. Figures and tables are pertinent and abundant, supporting and enhancing the content of the text. The text is unique in that it embraces several areas within the scope of pediatric physical therapy that have traditionally been neglected in the literature, such as cultural competence, children's fitness, and private practice.

This book contains a wealth of information fob pediatric physical therapists at all levels of practice. It should be included on the bookshelves of every physical therapy practice dealing with pediatric clients.

Ms Thorpe is assistant professor in the physical therapy program and conducts research in aquatic therapy and its effects on children with cerebral palsy.