Physical Therapy of the Shoulder.

Physical Therapy of the Shoulder This is one of 20 volumes published in the Clinics in Physical Therapy series. The 14 chapters in this text describe a variety of soft tissue problems encountered by the practicing therapist.

The introductory section on anatomy and biomechanics urges the reader to consider all the complexities of the shoulder girdle in formulating a rational treatment approach. This section has excellent schematic drawings and is well referenced. The description of evaluation techniques is a good review of palpation skills and takes a consistent approach to the topic. Specific clinical findings in a limited number of diagnoses are reviewed in detail.

The chapter on the problem of management of the frozen shoulder emphasizes the Cyriax approach. The section on treatment is written in general terms because of the nonspecific nature of this condition. A thorough review of the literature also is included.

The chapter on the hemiplegic shoulder follows a similar pattern, listing very detailed evaluation techniques and general treatment guidelines. The authors are careful not to offer a cookbook approach to the problem. This chapter is particularly well illustrated.

Thoracic outlet syndrome and its differential diagnosis are reviewed in the next section. The emphasis is on a progressive course of conservative treatment. The following chapter on description of brachial plexus lesions basically is an anatomic review and offers no new information regarding treatment.

The review of current research is surprisingly incomplete, touching on only three areas: normal isokinetic values, recurrent dislocation, and anterior impingement syndrome.

The chapter on the mechanics of throwing and the physical examination of subsequent injuries is well illustrated. An appendix on establishing an exercise program also is included and could be useful for patient education.

Joint mobilization is described in detail in a chapter written by the editor. The histological effects of passive motion and specific techniques for the therapist are outlined clearly. The principles can be applied to nearly all the previous chapters, which serves as an excellent reference. Chapters on myofascial dysfunction and total shoulder complete the text.

Although the editor's intention was to make this book a comprehensive review of the shoulder, the text falls short of this goal in several areas. There is little discussion of degenerative joint disease or fractures. The review of research is limited and needs to be expanded. Nevertheless, for the management of soft tissue pathology in the shoulder girdle, this book should be considered a good reference for the clinician.