Therapeutic Exercise: Foundations and Techniques

Reviewer: Christopher James Hughes, PT,PhD,OCS,CSCS(Slippery Rock University)
Description: This is an updated compilation of the principles and techniques that form the basis of prescribing individualized therapeutic exercise in rehabilitation. The previous edition was published in 1996.
Purpose: The purpose, according to the primary authors, is to provide a foundation of concepts and techniques upon which an individualized program of therapeutic exercise can be built. This is a worthy objective since there are few comprehensive books in the area of therapeutic exercise. This fourth edition represents a major revision. Several chapters have been rewritten and new information on mobilization with movement techniques as well as aquatic exercise have been added. The language has been completely updated to be consistent with terminology in APTA's Guide to Physical Therapist Practice, 2nd edition (American Physical Therapy Association, 2001). The revisions have strengthened the book considerably and I believe the authors have met their objectives.
Audience: The information is pertinent to physical therapists, occupational therapists, physiatrists, and others in rehabilitation medicine who prescribe therapeutic exercise programs for patients with musculoskeletal problems. However, the primary audience appears to be physical therapy students and practicing therapists. The authors are credible authorities in the areas of therapeutic exercise.
Features: A wealth of information is covered in each chapter. The emphasis is on treatment and exercise progression. However, a separate appendix addresses guidelines for performing a musculoskeletal examination. Regional coverage of the major joints of the body includes an anatomical and kinesiological review of each joint. Nonoperative and operative management of common musculoskeletal injuries is found in each section. Critical thinking exercises, laboratory exercises and case study questions are found at the end of each chapter to provide the reader with strong application of the didactic material. Specialized chapters are also included for managing the obstetric patient, vascular disorders of the extremities, and pulmonary conditions. Illustrations, tables, and graphs are well done and highlight important material for the reader. The learning objectives at the beginning of each chapter are clearly written. Exercise progressions and guidelines are reasonable and will provide the reader with a basic template to follow during rehabilitation of the pathologies cited. Because of the increased size of the book, the spiral bound cover seems insufficient for easily perusing the material. However, the spiral binding may be appropriate for students using the book in laboratory activities.
Assessment: This is one of the most comprehensive books on therapeutic exercise. The material is well written and well referenced. I believe the information would be ideal for courses in physical therapy that focus on therapeutic exercise for the orthopedic population. Practicing clinicians will find this to be a good reference and review of current techniques. Purchase of the fourth edition is warranted since many new sections have been added. The authors should be commended on compiling and continuously upgrading this very important book. I highly recommend it.

4 Stars! from Doody