Textbook of Running Medicine. (Book Review).

edited by Francis G. O'Connor, Robert P. Wilder, and Robert Nirschl, 696 pp, with illus, $85, ISBN 0-07-135977-X, New York, NY, McGraw Hill, 2001.

The Textbook of Running Medicine is the first complete medical textbook dedicated exclusively to the medicine of running. As Timothy Noakes, M.D., stated in the book's foreword, "Here indeed is the one-stop textbook that the care provider can access in order to elucidate the runner's problems, their causes, and their cures."

The text commences with an excellent overview of the epidemiology of running and proceeds with a thorough summary of biomechanics and human anatomy as they relate to running. It then presents an extensive description of the treatment of injuries commonly associated with the sport.

The information provided on tendinosis and tendons, evaluation techniques, and non-surgical care and rehabilitation is thorough and specially designed for those providing care to the running community. I found the information to be very useful. I also found the section clarifying the relationship between running and osteoarthritis to be of extreme value. In fact, I have used it clinical resource several times already. The authors consider training issues, proper nutrition, and helpful dietary supplements fundamental to ensuring continued good health and optimal performance for a runner. The information on aqua-jogging and foot orthotics is also valuable and exclusively tailored for runners.

Unfortunately, the chapter dedicated to healing agents such as hot packs, ultrasound, and electrical stimulation did not discuss how these modalities can be used to most effectively treat running injuries. This was a disappointment. The sections on massage and manual medicine, therapeutic exercise and strength training could also be improved. Ample information is provided in reference to the definitions, history, and benefits of these interventions, yet few examples are offered that might enable the runner to further develop their performance. I also would have liked to seen examples of how the authors, themselves, would approach the treatment of runners.

However, even given these limitations, this book is a must read for members of AMAA and, indeed, for all medical workers who deal with runners in their practice. Additionally, the text was edited and several of the chapters were written by AMAA members. Having this book on your reference shelf, will not only enhance your clinical skills but also support your AMAA colleagues.