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Joint Structure and Function: A Comprehensive Analysis, ed 4

Levangie PK, Norkin CC, eds. Philadelphia, PA 19103, FA Davis Co, 2005, hardcover, 588 pp, illus, ISBN 0-8036- 1191-9, $54.95.

Joint Structure and Function is a work that has stood the test of time. In this edition, the editors use new technologies, current evidence, the experience of colleagues, and a more integrated approach to facilitate the preparation of future health care practitioners who wish to understand human kinesiology and pathokinesiology. For example, changes in size, layout, and a 2-color format have improved the images and the readability. Line drawings have been added and enhanced with the use of digital technology, and there is a greater variety of image options, including photographs, medical imaging, and other 3-dimensional computer outputs.

Recognizing the difficulty of remaining current in all areas, the editors utilized experts in research, education, and practice (13 authors and 19 reviewers) to update this edition. These recognized scholars present the best available evidence, making this text even more clinically relevant. Finally, scattered throughout the chapters are boxes called "Concept Cornerstones," "Continuing Exploration," "Patient Case," and "Patient Application." In my opinion, these add-ons are the most significant improvement to this edition. These boxes contain invaluable scientific and clinical insights. Moreover, the initial patient vignettes that are presented at the beginning of each chapter are expanded, so that as the reader progresses through the chapter, additional patient information is provided that encourages the reader to integrate new foundational information with new patient information. The authors believe, and I agree, that using case-based and problem-based learning strategies will substantially help readers retain an understanding of the continuum between normal and impaired function.

The essential organization of this book has not changed, and it is logical and appealing from a pedagogical perspective. There are 5 sections: "Joint Structure and Function: Foundational Concepts," which covers the basics of biomechanics, joint structure, and muscle; "Axial Skeletal Joint Complexes"; "Upper Extremity Joint Complexes"; "Hip Joint"; and "Integrated Function," which discusses posture and gait. Each chapter begins with an outline of chapter contents and ends with a list of relevant and most current references. Reading this text can become torturous at times, because of how the authors have extensively weaved literature findings into the narrative, but chapters are well-organized and understandable. Usually, each chapter’s final sections provide biomechanically related information on the effects of exercise, immobilization, injury, or aging, all of which makes this text more clinically relevant. New information has been added to every chapter, but the chapters on posture and gait in particular contain expanded information that comes from the research literature where advancements in technology have provided more relevant information. The only thing missing from this text is an integrated explanation of thoracic vertebral and rib kinematics, such as in Diane Lee’s The Thorax: An Integrated Approach.

The improvements in this new edition of Joint Structure and Function place this text on the cutting edge. I recommend its use by educators and clinicians alike. For those with older editions of this book, purchasing this new edition is worth the cost because of new clinically relevant features.

Gordon J Alderink, PT, PhD

Grand Valley State University, Grand Rapids, Mich

	Editor's Notes

 
Alderink is an Associate Professor in the Physical Therapy Program at Grand Valley State University. He teaches biomechanics, research methods, and spinal manual therapy. His research focuses on spine, throwing, and gait biomechanics.

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This Article Full Text (PDF) Submit a response Alert me when this article is cited Alert me when Rapid Responses are posted Alert me if a correction is posted Services Email this article to a friend Similar articles in this journal Alert me to new issues of the journal Download to citation manager Citing Articles Citing Articles via Google Scholar Google Scholar Articles by Alderink, G. J Search for Related Content PubMed Articles by Alderink, G. J Related Collections Anatomy and Physiology: Musculoskeletal System Kinesiology/Biomechanics Social Bookmarking                      What's this?