Therapeutic Modalities in Sports Medicine, 2d ed.

Prentice W, ed. St Louis, MO 63146, Times Mirror/Mosby College Publishing, 1990, hardback, 318 pp, illus, $41.95.

This book can be used as a general reference for the physical therapy modalities commonly used by sports physical therapists, athletic trainers, and other sports medicine personnel. The beginning chapters do an excellent job of providing an overview of the basic principles that govern the use of electrotherapeutic modalities. The chapter on electrical stimulation currents covers most of the common electrical stimulators that are available. The author does a remarkable job of reviewing the different kinds of waveforms and the mechanism by which these stimulators work. He also thorougly reviews the physiology of electrical stimulation as it is used in the treatment of athletic injuries. Contents of this book range from pain and the mechanisms of pain to therapeutic modalities in relation to the electromagnetic acoustic spectrum. The basic principles of electricity and the physiologic responses to the use of electricity are very well covered.

All the various physical therapy modatities are addressed in both a distinct and succinct manner. The modalities of ultrasound, diathermy, ultraviolet therapy, low-power lasers, infrared modalities, intermittent compression devices, massage, and traction are all included in the text. The chapter on electrostimulation currents is quite interesting. It addresses many of the different protocols used in the sports medicine clinics and also covers "Russian" current stimulators and interferential current stimulators. The chapter on ultrasound is also very informative and describes the common indications and contraindications, as well as the use of phonophoresis. The chapter on traction illustrates the use of traction with different mechanical devices and with traction utilizing mobilization and positional distraction procedures. This topic was addressed in relation to the treatment of athletic injuries.

This book is a compact, well-written ten about the use of physical therapy modalities with athletic injuries and provides good illustrations and photographs. It is a very handy reference and offers a wide variety of information for both physical therapy students and athletic training students wanting to cover the concept of physical therapy modalities in sports physical therapy or in sports medicine in general. I think it is a good ten for the sports medicine practitioner to have in his or her office for ready reference.

Louis A Greenwald, PT

Medical Associates Sports Medicine Dubuque, Iowa