The Biomechanics of the Foot and Ankle, 2nd ed.

The purpose of this book is to discuss in detail the biomechanics of the foot and ankle and to develop a practical clinical model by, which the clinician can effectively assess and treat foot and ankle disorders. The authors accomplish this through a well-written and comprehensive text that should be useful for clinical practice. This book is effective in bridging the gap between theory and practice by providing Information that is essential for evaluation and treatment of foot and ankle dysfunction. In this edition, two new chapters have been added Closed Kinetic Chain and Gait" and The Application of Kinetic Chain Rehabilitation in the Lower Extremities." Like the first edition, this book is divided into three main sections.

Section 1, "Biomechanics of the Foot and Ankle," begins with a chapter on normal anatomy, and biomechanics and is followed by a chapter on abnormal biomechanics. These first two chapters are well organized and provide a good basis for the rest of the text. Chapter 3 is an intelligent and clearly written description of the processes involved in the development and maturation of the adult pattern of gait. Chapter 4 covers closed kinetic chain and gait. It is interesting and well presented, but there is some overlapping with the contents of chapter 3. The description of the "six determinants of gait" differs from the original description in the literature on which it was based.

Chapter 5 covers clinical assessment of the normal foot and the abnormal foot and includes basic information, such as range of motion and appearance of the foot. Chapter 6 is an overview of biomechanical radiographic evaluation. It has been revised to include scanning and imaging techniques, although no photographs of these techniques are included. Chapter 7 encompasses biomechanical exaluation for functional orthoses. The evaluation for and fitting of orthoses are covered well in this text; however, the information is scattered throughout several chapters, which may be confusing if the reader needs to quickly locate information or is not experienced in orthoses. Chapters 6 and 7 would have been better placed in section 2, and indeed the preface lists them there, even though they are in section 1.

Section 2, "Biomechanical Evaluation," begins with a strong overview of evaluation and treatment of overuse syndromes in the lower extremities. Case studies of common overuse injuries, such as plantar fasciitis, make the chapter highly practical. Chapter 9 reviews the epidemiology, pathophysiology, general evaluation schemes, and treatment regimens for diabetic foot problems. No sample of a diabetic foot evaluation form is presented, but it would have been beneficial. The descriptions of total contact casting are cursory, especially considering the value of this treatment option.

Section 3 is entitled "Treatment Approaches to Restore Normal Movement." Chapter 10, "Biomechanical Orthotics," very clearly describes common methods and rationale for the design of biomechanical orthoses. Chapter 11, entitled "Physical Therapy," is a compilation of six case studies of common foot and ankle diagnoses, such as lateral ligamentous sprains. Each case study is well developed and is valuable in helping the reader develop problem-solving skills. Treatment approaches are based on sound scientific principles and incorporate many procedures, such as modalities, joint mobilization, exercise, and patient education. Chapter 12 is new to this edition and reviews the characteristics and applications of kinetic-chain training as it relates to the lower extremity. This chapter is an excellent overview of kinetic chain rehabilitation and its advantages and disadvantages. A review of joint forces during activity is included and adds to this chapter. Chapter 13 covers some of the various surgical options for management of several pathologic conditions of the lower extremity, including pes planus, hallux valgus, and others.

This book should certainly be useful to the clinician who is involved in treatment of the foot and ankle. It is both comprehensive and universal enough to be used as a textbook in physical therapy curricula. The abundance of case studies throughout the book is a major strength. This book is written primarily for physical therapists and physical therapist assistants, although other health care professionals who treat the foot and ankle also may find it useful. Physical therapists who have experience in treating the foot and ankle will find it accurate and current. Students and physical therapy practitioners with less experience should also find the entire book a valuable resource. The repetition of certain topics, such as lower-extremity biomechanical assessment, is a potential weakness of the text. These criticisms, however, do not detract from the overall quality of this book, which is excellent.

David Levine, PhD, PT The University of Tennessee at Chattanooga Chattanooga, Tenn

Dr Levine is UC Foundation Assistant Professor in the department of physical therapy. His teaching, research, and clinical practice are in the areas of orthopedics and sports medicine.