Main description:

Prepared by an international authority, Therapeutic Stretching: Towards a Functional Approach offers a highly accessible account of the latest information regarding the role of therapeutic stretching in the management of restricted range of movement (ROM) disorders.

Richly illustrated throughout, this exciting new volume covers the physiological basis of stretching, explores its classification and examines what is normal and abnormal in terms of ROM. Chapters then explain the processes that are associated with ROM loss and recovery as well as what makes stretching effective. The experience of pain, sensitization and pain tolerance in relation to stretching and ROM recovery are also discussed.

Embracing the latest scientific research, this revolutionary book debunks many traditionally accepted stretching theories and associated techniques and supplants them with a more robust, scientifically valid system of practice.

Accompanied by a range of practical on-line videos and over 150 photographs, this volume will be ideal for all manual and physical therapists, sports and personal trainers, and athletes who require special movement ranges.

"This is a highly enjoyable and well presented book that I recommend for any clinician from student to experienced practitioner. It is suitable for all physiotherapists, manual therapists, sports physiotherapists/therapists, strength and conditioning coaches, sports scientists, athletes and patients who would like to understand, recover and improve their range and ease of movement." Reviewed by: Jimmy Reynolds, Head of Sports Medicine - Academy, Ipswich Town Football Club, Date: Oct 14

Helps transform thinking about the therapeutic value of stretching and how it is best applied in the clinical setting
Examines the difference between therapeutic and recreational stretching
Focuses on the use of stretching in conditions where individuals experience a loss in range of movement (ROM)
Explores what makes stretching effective, identifying behaviour as a main driving force for adaptive changes
Discusses the experience of pain, sensitization and pain tolerance in relation to stretching and ROM recovery
Contains over 150 photographs and 45 minutes of video describing this new revolutionary approach
Applicable to a variety of perspectives including osteopathy, chiropractic, physical therapy, sports and personal trainers
Ideal for experienced practitioners as well as those taking undergraduate and postgraduate courses

Contents:

Chapter 1 - Introduction to therapeutic and functional stretching

Chapter 2 - Functional and dysfunctional ROM

Chapter 3 - Causes of ROM loss and therapeutic potential of rehabilitation

Chapter 4 - Adaptation in ROM loss and recovery

Chapter 5 - Specificity in ROM rehabilitation

Chapter 6 - The overloading condition for recovery

Chapter 7 - Exposure and scheduling the ROM challenge

Chapter 8 - Rehabilitating the active ROM: neuromuscular rehabilitation

Chapter 9 - Pain management and ROM-desensitization

Chapter 10 - Stretch tolerance model

Chapter 11 - Psychological and behavioral considerations in ROM rehabilitation

Chapter 12 - Towards a functional approach

Chapter 13 - Demonstration of functional approach in ROM rehabilitation

Chapter 14 - Summary