This expertly authored book is a valuable clinical manual for therapists interested in cranial manipulation, a fast-growing area of manual therapy practice. The new edition presents the latest thinking on the use of this valuable approach, supported by the most up-to-date research evidence related to its use. Osteopathic biomechanical and biodynamic concepts are thoroughly examined, in addition to chiropractic and dental approaches involving cranial and cranio-facial manipulation. The book's unique approach explores both soft tissue and osseous applications, and provides guidance on which option to select in different clinical situations. Descriptions and explanations of techniques are supported by high-quality illustrations, a CD-ROM containing actual video demonstrations, and practical exercises integrated within the text. Cranial osteopathic, cranio-sacral, sacro-occipital (chiropractic), cranio-facial, and dental methods and perspectives are explained and compared. Evidence-based coverage highlights the clinical relevance of the latest research findings. Both osseous and soft tissue assessment and treatment options, and offers guidance on appropriate selection. Clear line drawings supplement the text. Important discussions of theory support guidelines for putting concepts into practice. Numerous exercises on palpation, assessment, and treatment allow the reader to practice techniques and check their understanding as they go. Written by one of the most highly respected practitioners in the field. A companion CD-ROM contains the entire text as well as video segments demonstrating how to perform the technique. Icons in the text direct readers to video footage on the CD-ROM that demonstrates the technique as it's described. Expanded information is provided on the use of this technique with children. A question-and-answer format has been incorporated into several chapters. A new chapter addresses conditions most commonly treated successfully with this technique. New two-color design clarifies the illustrations and makes the text easy to follow. New contributed chapters discuss the scope of cranial work, the biodynamic model of osteopathy in the cranial field, chiropractic in the cranial field, the link between cranial dysfunction, and the teeth from a dental perspective.

The book discusses theories and physiology relevant to the manual treatment of chronic pain, especially as it regards the soft tissues of the upper body. Step-by-step protocols that address each muscle of a region and a regional approach to treatment are features that make this book unique. A structural review of each region, including ligaments and functional anatomy, adds value for new students and practitioners alike. - Comprehensive 'one-stop' text on care of somatic pain and dysfunction - Designed and written to meet the needs of those working with neuromuscular dysfunction in a variety of professions - All muscles covered from perspective of assessment & treatment of myofascial pain - Describes the normal anatomy and physiology as well as the dysfunctions which may arise - Gives indications for treatments and guidance on making the appropriate treatment choice for each patient - Combines NMT, MET, PR and much more to give a variety of treatment options for each case - Describes the different NMT techniques in relation to the joint anatomy involved - Practical step-by-step technique descriptions - Includes not only manual techniques but also acupuncture, hydrotherapies and nutritional support as well as guidance for the patient in the use of self-help approaches - Two-color format - Up-to-date evidence based content

NATUROPATHIC PHYSICAL MEDICINE provides a philosophical naturopathic perspective, as well as practical clinical applications, for manual and physical approaches to health care. A wide range of bodywork and movement approaches and modalities are evaluated in relation to their ability to be appropriately used in naturopathic treatment and rehabilitation settings. The model of care emphasised in this text recognizes that naturopathically oriented therapeutic interventions usually focus on achieving one or all of the following: enhancement of function so that the person, system or part, can better self-regulate in response to adaptive demands; modification or removal of adaptive load factors; and symptomatic relief without creation of significant additional adaptive changes.

Far from being simply a sequence of techniques, as practised in many countries osteopathy is an independent primary health care system based on principles applied through a manual practice: a unique profession that takes care of the whole person through the application of five models (biomechanical, neurological, respiratory-circulatory, metabolic, and behavioral). These conceptual models of the relationship between structure and function allow osteopaths to evaluate treatment with the aim of promoting health rather than curing disease. This book is intended as a manual for both students and osteopathic professionals interested in exploring the principles, objectives, origins and application of the five osteopathic models, from traditional concepts up to a modern vision, based on evidence and critical thinking. The selection criteria and rules for the application of each model, with their limitations and potential, are examined, to enable the reader to understand the rationale behind their use in a comprehensive, holistic and patient-centered practice.