Anatomy. Physiology and Kinesiology Notes for Students, by Betty C Gray MCSP. EXTEND, 3 The Boulevard, Sheringham, Norfolk NR26 8LJ. 1987. Illus. 60 pages. €3.70 (includes p&p).
Understanding Orthopaedics is an excellent reference book for students and qualified staff alike, complementing the usual pathologically-based orthopaedic textbooks.
This excellent book is aimed at students taking an EXTEND teacher training course. EXTEND exercises are based on the BagotStack system used by the Womens League for Health and Beauty from which the organisation EXTEND developed. Classes are given for the over-60s and for people with a physical or mental disability. EXTEND started in 1976 and exercises were originally taught to nurses, physiotherapists and occupational therapists. The anatomy component of the course was added because there were not enough applicants with paramedical qualifications applying for EXTEND teacher training. The author is the physiotherapy adviser to EXTEND and as a physiotherapist worked for many years with elderly people both in the public and private sector. The book has sections on the skeleton, joints, circulation, endocrine glands, digestion, excretion, skin, and the nervous system. There is a description of the subject, then the practical application is given - eg after a description of the skeleton the author introduces posture and relaxation to show how the body 'hangs' on the skeleton. Each section also deals with the problems related to illness. Very clear warnings are given about exercises to avoid in specific conditions, also the 'dos' and 'don'ts' to consider when setting up a class. Apart from its intended use, this book could be a valuable component of other training courses. I would recommend it to any physiotherapist who is interested in running training courses for physiotherapy helpers and/or residential care staff.
FIONA COUTTS MCSP Simple Relaxation (2nd edn), by Laura Mitchell MCSP DipTP. John Murray, London, 1987 (ISBN0 7195 4388 6). Illus. 144 pages. €4.95. Since Laura Mitchell first introduced her method of relaxation in 1963 it has been widely used by many to alleviate tension and induce restful relaxation. This book, first published in 1977, sets out clearly the principles behind the Mitchell method, the position of stress and the commands used to change this to a position of relaxation, both of body and mind. The adaptation of the method to a variety of situations including driving; interviews;
Occupational Therapy for Children with Disabilities, by Dorothy E Penso. Croom Helm, Beckenham, 1987 (ISBN 0 7099 4049 1). 181 pages. €8.95.
Understanding Orthopaedics, by J M Sikorski BSc MB BS(Lond)FRCS MD(Bristo1). Butterworths, London, 1986 (ISBN 0 409 49098 9). 233 pages. €15.
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The main changes between this and the first edition are primarily concerned with the presentation of information and updating some aspects of physiology. The text basically follows the same format as the 1979 edition. Within its 27 chapters the book provides a general overview of the anatomy and physiology of the body. It adopts a systematic approach which facilitates the integration of relevant anatomy, histology and physiology of all major systems. Throughout the text the authors have attempted to relate the information to clinical practice. However, there are a few chapters where the anatomy and physiology are treated independently and others which would benefit from a stronger emphasis on the form/function relation of structures. The information is presented in a concise, easy-to-read style and this edition has the benefit of an increased number of diagrams. Students will generally require more detail in most areas, but the book will provide a good understanding of the mechanism and functions of the body. A E TAYLOR BA MCSP DipTP
THELMA HARVEY BA MCSP
The author sets out to give an overall background view of the complicated field of orthopaedics. Understanding Orthopaedics successfully does this through a wide range of comprehensive chapters from acute trauma and emergency room treatments, through the symptoms significant in orthopaedic problems, to why failures of bone, joint and soft tissue occur. Finally it describes the often-forgotten problem of protective mobility, posture and occupationrelated problems. It is refreshing to see a medical textbook which forgets the pathology, and concentrates more on relevant signs and symptoms and their treatment, while also giving the medical insight into aspects of orthopaedics often forgotten by therapists, eg development and maturation of the musculoskeletal system or life/limb threatening emergencies. Each chapter is well laid out and easily comprehended giving an overall view of the subject and not giving strict treatment routines. The flow-charts, pictures and diagrams laid out clearly in each chapter help to provide a concise understanding as to why certain medical treatment regimes or decisions are made. The summary at the end of each chapter provides a reminder of relevant facts, or an easy reference page.
Anatomy and Physiology for Physiotherapists (2nd edn), by D B Moffat and R F Mottram. Blackwell, Oxford, 1987 (ISBN 0 632 01464 4). Illus. 6 7 0 pages. €14.95.
Application of the Mitchell technique to driving a vehicle
Occupational therapists are now more involved in working with children with disabilities. The author begins by looking at the child's environment, his family and the role of the occupational therapist and allied professionals. Later she describes the nature and range of disabilities which children may have and offers sound practical strategies to overcome specific problems and help their general development. She concludes by discussing assessment and therapeutic procedures to meet individual needs of children. Chapters which are of particular interest to physiotherapists are those which describe the relationships between motor activity and play, sensory, play, perceptual and independence skills. This is a comprehensive, well-referenced, concise and readable book. It will be useful to Chartered paediatric physiotherapistswho would like to consolidate their skills or gain new ideas and methods and learn about the contribution of occupational therapy for children with special needs.
insomnia; illness; and the ante-natal, labouring and post-natal mother is also discussed. Those already teaching the Mitchell method may find it useful to re-examine the original method since one tends to add one's own embellishments which alter the original technique and may detract from its effectiyeness. This latess edition contains a new chapter on 'Lifestyle and stress', which discusses the factors causing stress, including a section on the pressures exerted by change in lifestyle, and gives helpful advice on making the best use of leisure time and coping with the strains of a busy life. This is a book which will benefit physiotherapists and their patients. It is clearly set out, helpfully illustrated and readable. Anyone following the instructions carefully will be well equipped to control their reactions to stressful situations and adopt a more relaxed and healthy way of life.
The Industrial Society has produced a very useful guide on organising an open day. Of general use to hospitals as well as other institutions and organisations, How to Run a Succcessfd Open Day sets out simply and clearly all the dos and don'ts. With so many hospitals and clinics throwing open their doors to the public - and rightly so - this booklet is a must.
SUE BUSH GradDipPhys MCSP
STUART SKYTE
CHlA SWEE HONG MA DipCOT How t o Run a Successful Open Day. The Industrial Society, 3 Carlton House Terrace, London SWlY 5DG. 2 0 pages. Free on request.
physiotherapy, July 1988, vol74,
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