Stretching for Functional Flexibility

Stretching for Functional Flexibility is a reference guide for the safe, effective, and efficient application of stretching exercises to improve range of motion and movement potential. Based on the most current research, this text is a valuable reference for physical, occupational and massage therapists, athletic trainers, fitness trainers, coaches, sports and orthopedic physicians, doctors of chiropractic, and many other professionals dealing with the health and performance of the musculoskeletal system. The text provides all of the information necessary to design and implement a safe and effective stretching program. A companion Website will offer the fully searchable text and an image bank for instructors. Doody Review Services Reviewer: Kevin T Lehmann, MS ATC CSCS(Western Michigan University) Description: This is a well-organized, comprehensive resource for those interested in improving musculoskeletal flexibility and function related to sport or lifestyle. Clear and appropriate illustrations aid both lay readers and clinicians. Purpose: The author and illustrator have provided a user-friendly flexibility reference for clinicians and the general population, using up-to-date research, high-quality illustrations, and personal experience. The book is an additional resource for those wishing to remain current in functional flexibility. Audience: Organized for healthcare clinicians such as physical therapists or athletic trainers to use as a quick reference, the book provides adequate access to additional materials for readers such as healthcare professions students. The author's experience as a physical therapist is evident throughout and the book, without question, provides the qualitative approach to functional flexibility. Features: Covering functional flexibility from basic anatomy to workplace stretching programs, the book covers much ground including recent research and injury rehabilitation. The use of multicolor illustrations in a simple, easy to use format is refreshing. Caution boxes are designed to warn readers and potentially those actually performing the action of important flexibility guidelines. Multiple stretching programs are provided to aid clinicians and support the end-users' goals. Both individual and group muscle stretches are covered as well as those that are popular among various sports and leisure activities, including Yoga. I would like to see more information regarding advanced techniques and those gaining acceptance in the healthcare professions. Assessment: Most physical therapists, athletic trainers, and strength coaches will appreciate the vast amount of material in this book. Using research and personal experience, the author and illustrator have provided a quality resource for those who wish to use it in the rehabilitation room, the classroom, and the living room. "Based on scientific research and the author's own clinical experience, Stretching for Functional Flexibility guides you through the safe, effective, and efficient application of stretching exercises for improving range of motion and movement potential. Everything you need to design and implement optimal stretching programs for clients or for yourself is provided, including tested techniques and principles. Not simply a guide to stretching, this book covers the origin, insertion, innervation, and action of each muscle to help you understand the larger context of the human musculoskeletal system and biomechanics." "Stretching for Functional Flexibility logically begins with the fundamentals needed to understand stretching, then covers basic stretches and stretching programs, and ends with special applications." "Stretching for Functional Flexibility is ideal for fitness specialists and athletic trainers; coaches; physical, occupational, and massage therapists; sports and orthopedic physicians, doctors of chiropractic; and other health and fitness professionals interested in optimizing the health and performance of the musculoskeletal system."--Résumé de l'éditeur Introduction to stretching General principles for safe and effective stretching Assessing flexibility Stretches for individual muscles Stretches for major muscle groups Stretching programs for the whole body Improving posture through flexibility Workplace stretching programs Stretching for sports Stretching for rehabilitation of injuries Advanced stretching. "Stretching for Functional Flexibility is ideal for fitness specialists and athletic trainers; coaches; physical, occupational, and massage therapists; sports and orthopedic physicians, doctors of chiropractic; and other health and fitness professionals interested in optimizing the health and performance of the musculoskeletal system."--BOOK JACKET