Physiology, Orthopedics, Physiology - Sense & Motion

Science of Flexibility

Name: Science of Flexibility
Author: Michael J. Alter
ISBN: 9780873229777

by Michael J. Alter

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Overview

Science of Flexibility has long been considered the leading reference on the topic, and this second edition reaffirms that status. No other book covers these concepts and principles better.

Based on the latest research, this completely revised and updated edition includes five new chapters, nearly doubling the content. These chapters discuss

the hypermobility of joints,
joint manipulation and chiropractic adjustment,
controversial stretches,
the relationship of stretching and special populations, and
the functionality of stretching and flexibility for specific sports and health conditions.

In the first few chapters, readers will learn about factors that limit flexibility, such as the titin filament in muscle, plasticity in the spinal cord's neural circuits, and the influence of circadian cycles.

The remaining chapters discuss how such limiting factors can be modified to enhance joint range of motion. These chapters feature a variety of techniques to enhance flexibility throughout the body.

With more than 1,400 scholarly and professional references and over 200 illustrations, photos, and tables, Science of Flexibility is invaluable for

exercise scientists,
health and fitness professionals,
athletic trainers,
sport physical therapists and chiropractors,
massage therapists, and
instructors and practitioners of dance, yoga, and the martial arts.

It's also an excellent textbook for physical therapy, massage therapy, and other professional therapy training programs.

The book contains black-and-white illustrations.

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Editorials

From The Critics

Reviewer: David Kujawa, PT, OCS(Medical College of Ohio School of Allied Health)
Description: This book provides a general overview of flexibility and its relationship to development. It incorporates recent research in basic and clinical sciences to explain and substantiate the theories and procedures associated with a variety of healthcare disciplines.
Purpose: The purpose is to present a survey of the various theories of flexibility and the clinical factors that influence it. This multidisciplinary approach is valuable because of the fact that healthcare consumers can and do seek the services of a variety of practitioners to restore mobility, e.g. chiropractors, osteopaths, physical therapists, massage therapists, and athletic trainers. Overall, the book meets its objective.
Audience: The book is intended for professionals involved in the management and treatment of flexibility problems in a variety of settings. Students would find value in its multidisciplinary approach. The author has substantial experience in the area of flexibility and is a recognized expert on the subject.
Features: This second edition expands the scope of the first edition. New chapters have been added, including one that deals with the relationship of stretching and special populations: the elderly, pregnant women, and the physically challenged. The illustrations, tables, and graphs have been updated, and the reference list has almost tripled in entries.
Assessment: This book provides a very good overview of the subject of flexibility. It is useful for students and practitioners from a variety of disciplines who are involved in the assessment and treatment of clients with flexibility problems. It brings together various theoretical concepts and clinical issues, such as in the chapter dealing with special populations, which is a valuable asset, both in the classroom and clinic.

David Kujawa

This book provides a general overview of flexibility and its relationship to development. It incorporates recent research in basic and clinical sciences to explain and substantiate the theories and procedures associated with a variety of healthcare disciplines. The purpose is to present a survey of the various theories of flexibility and the clinical factors that influence it. This multidisciplinary approach is valuable because of the fact that healthcare consumers can and do seek the services of a variety of practitioners to restore mobility, e.g. chiropractors, osteopaths, physical therapists, massage therapists, and athletic trainers. Overall, the book meets its objective. The book is intended for professionals involved in the management and treatment of flexibility problems in a variety of settings. Students would find value in its multidisciplinary approach. The author has substantial experience in the area of flexibility and is a recognized expert on the subject. This second edition expands the scope of the first edition. New chapters have been added, including one that deals with the relationship of stretching and special populations: the elderly, pregnant women, and the physically challenged. The illustrations, tables, and graphs have been updated, and the reference list has almost tripled in entries. This book provides a very good overview of the subject of flexibility. It is useful for students and practitioners from a variety of disciplines who are involved in the assessment and treatment of clients with flexibility problems. It brings together various theoretical concepts and clinical issues, such as in the chapter dealing with special populations, which is avaluable asset, both in the classroom and clinic.

Booknews

A reference text on concepts and principles of flexibility, of interest to professionals and students in exercise science, health/fitness, sport and physical therapy, and massage therapy, as well as practitioners of dance, yoga, and martial arts. Offers chapters on properties of connective and soft tissues, neurophysiological aspects, and anatomy and flexibility of various areas, as well as information on relaxation and social and emotional aspects. This second edition contains five new chapters on topics such as joint manipulation and chiropractic adjustment, controversial stretches, and stretching for specific conditions. Annotation c. Book News, Inc., Portland, OR (booknews.com)

3 Stars from Doody