Clinical Applications of Neuromuscular Techniques: The Upper Body, Volume 1: Upper Body v. 1

"Those familiar with Chaitow’s previous books in the Advanced Soft Tissue Techniques series (Muscle Energy Techniques, Modern Neuromuscular Techniques, and Positional Release Techniques) will recognise the format of this volume: many photos and well drawn diagrams that clearly illustrate the various techniques, supported by well-written and stimulating explanatory text. There is inevitably a fair amount of reiteration of previously covered ground, but here the authors have done a good job of drawing together various strands in modern thinking and practice of soft tissue techniques in one comprehensive text.

The first third of the book is devoted to several chapters that provide an overview of current thinking and research into dysfunctional soft tissue states. There are wide-ranging and heavily referenced discussions on subjects such as Connective tissue and the fascial system, Causes of musculoskeletal dysfunction, Trigger points, Inflammation and pain. The emphasis is on providing useful theoretical models that may support clinical practice. The remainder of the book consists in four lengthy chapters that present assessment and treatment procedures for dealing with regional musculoskeletal dysfunction, covering the cervical region, the cranium, the shoulder, arm and hand, and the thorax. An eclectic range of treatment approaches is described, including muscle energy, myofascial release, positional release techniques as well as NMT. Interspersed with the text are many figures and boxes containing useful additional information.

The focus throughout is on evaluation and treatment from a biomechanical perspective. This is a natural bedfellow of the protocol-driven approach to practice implied by the authors, and the step-by-step ‘how-to’ structure of this book. Therein lies its limitation, or its appeal, depending on your perspective. One further note of caution: this book is not cheap, and if you like it you may feel compelled to acquire the equally pricey companion volume, which covers the lower body."
~ Written on 2003-04-25