Evidence-Based Guide to Therapeutic Physical Agents

From The Critics

Reviewer: Karyn Lange Campbell, BS, MPT, CMT(Mount St. Mary's College)
Description: This book provides the health professional with an easy-to-read referrence regarding indications, contraindications, therapeutic and physiologic effects, and dosimetry of physical agents used in the field. Among the unique characteristics of this book is the informative tables which contain numerous conditions and diagnoses for which a modality is commonly applied with reference to clinical studies (including a grade for the amount of supporting evidence).
Purpose: The purpose is to provide a guide for the use of therapeutic agents in the health profession which is based on clinical evidence. Considering the paucity of human research regarding the use of modalities, even those as common as contrast bath treatment, this book is a refreshing addition to a student or practitioner's library. These objectives are met.
Audience: The book is designed for the student and practitioner of physical therapy and occupational therapy, and athletic trainers. The author also targets physicians who would be prescribing rehabilitation using modalities as part of the treatment plan. The author accomplishes this goal. As a physical therapist and PhD, the author shows credible authority to address this topic.
Features: This book discusses the history, physiology, therapeutic effects, precautions, contraindications, indications, and dosimetry of the most commonly applied modalities in the health profession. The modalities included in the book range from ultrasound and electrical stimulation to cryotherapy. The book provides a summary at the conclusion of each chapter of samples of proper documentation. Application tips are also discussed. Illustrations and quick reference indications tables are placed throughout the book.
Assessment: This book is a good comprehensive research-based reference guide for the health professional. It is very useful, providing several tables and helpful hints. The text includes detailed information regarding various models of equipment and their application as well. However, I would like to have seen a more extensive listing of outpatient orthopedic-related conditions and the amount of clinical research support. Overall, this is a very useful book to assist the clinician and student in providing patient care.

From The Critics

This handbook provides students and clinicians with an evidence-based guide to the most commonly practiced therapeutic physical agents in the fields of physical medicine, rehabilitation, and sports therapy. Using a concise outline format, it reviews 10 electro-type and four thermal-type agents. In the first 14 chapters, Bélanger (physiotherapy, Laval U.) presents information on agents based on various types of electric current, nonionizing radiation, and acoustic energy. The subsequent six chapters provide a series of practical guidelines. Other features include b&w illustrations, and boxes with summarized information. Spiral binding. Annotation c. Book News, Inc., Portland, OR (booknews.com)

4 Stars! from Doody