book presents the latest information and research on the prevention and management of musculoskeletal pain and dysfunction. It introduces the reader to an approach to clinical management and prevention based on that research. This text's impressively thorough coverage makes it an indispensable text for both researchers and clinicians in the field of musculoskeletal pain and dysfunction.

· Written by 3 of the foremost researchers in the field, the material features a high level of credibility and respect, unlikely to be found in any other reference on musculoskeletal dysfunction.
· Coverage offers the most up-to-date information available, as it is based on the very latest research from the key workers in the field around the world
· Practical examples demonstrate the clinical relevance of the research to the student and busy practitioner
· The text presents a new, problem-solving approach to back pain assessment and management, based on the latest understanding of the anatomy, physiology and biomechanics involved.
· Extensive illustrations, line diagrams, and photographs complement the text with visual aides.

· Many new illustrations help the reader to understand key points.
· The text includes new, detailed information on Panjabi's model, the passive system, the neural system, the muscle system, and the dysfunctions in each system and their interrelationships.
· Refocused material provides the reader with knowledge necessary to real-life practice by placing new emphasis on the principles relating to injury prevention and its importance for reducing health costs.
· Expanded coverage of issues of the neural spine and ergonomics help the reader come

1 The time to move forward by Carolyn Richardson 3


Pt. 1 Introduction 11

2 Lumbopelvic stability : a functional model of the biomechanics and motor control by Paul Hodges 13


Pt. 2 Specific joint protection of the spinal segments 29

3 Abdominal mechanism and support of the lumbar spine and pelvis by Paul Hodges 31

4 Paraspinal mechanism and support of the lumbar spine by Julie Hides 59


Pt. 3 The antigravity muscle support system 75

5 Stiffness of the lumbopelvic region for load transfer by Carolyn Richardson and Julie Hides 77

6 The role of weightbearing and non-weightbearing muscles by Carolyn Richardson 93

7 The deload model of injury by Carolyn Richardson 105

8 Joint injury by Julie Hides 119

9 Pain models by Paul Hodges 129

10 Abdominal mechanism in low back pain by Paul Hodges 141

11 Paraspinal mechanism in low back pain by Julie Hides 149

12 Impairments in muscles controlling pelvic orientation and weightbearing by Carolyn Richardson 163

13 Principles of the 'segmental stabilization' exercise model by Carolyn Richardson and Julie Hides and Paul Hodges 175

14 Local segmental control by Julie Hide and Carolyn Richardson and Paul Hodges 185

15 Closed chain segmental control by Carolyn Richardson and Julie Hides 221

16 Open chain segmental control and progression into function by Carolyn Richardson and Julie Hides 2