Book reviews 609

Butterworth Heinemann, Oxford 2000, 2nd edn (ISBN 0 7506 7202 I ) lllus 386 pages

bv Doualas J Gelb MD PhD f22.50 This text is designed t o give a systematic approach to the examination of' the neurological system. The book is clearly aimed at medical students and junior doctors and possibly GPs to guide the neurological examination process.

Gclb iitid his co-;iuthors write clearly and readably, providing a 1ogic;il progression from basic examination to more detailed differential testing.

< h e studies ;ire uselidly placed at the beginning of each section and are used t o help the diagnostic process.

T h r inli)rination is up-to-date insofar as it mentions the most recent drug ad\ances in niultiple sclerosis and talks about new variant CJD.

This text would be a useful addition to any department library. I t would be a useful reference tool for physiotherapists working with neurology outpatients who may need t o challenge the diagnoses o f some referrals.

The hook should be taken in context and not used by physiotherapy students as a guide to the total management of neurological conditions, particularly as there is very little reference to physiotherapy, even in the stroke section.

Sara Harding MCSP

Butterworth Heinemann, Oxford 2000, 2nd edn (IBSN 0 7506 3290 9). 224 pages

edited bv Ann ComDton and Maw Ashwin f22.99 This hook is a welcome addition to a limited library available to physiotherapists working in the community, and since the first edition was published in 1992 changes in the philosophy and provision of care have brwi considerable. Although this second edition is intended as ;I handbook for all community care professiotials. physiothrrapists working alone o r in multi- disciplinary teains will find i t useful.

The stated aim o f the book is t o provide a framework to romniunity care theory and practice and t o improve readers' knowledge base and practical skills. Its parameters do not inclutlr clinical information and treatment techniques.

I n addition t o the editors, the ten other contributors to the book :ire well q d i f i e d lecturers and trainers in all aspects of social and health care.

The hook is divided into four sections. The first section provides the core knowledge looking at social, legal, psychologic;il ;ind philosophical issues within community practice. I n it thcrc is ;in excellent chapter by Howard Davis on

'Stockingglove' distribution of sensory loss typical of polyneuropathx as illustrated in 'Introduction to Clinical Neuropathy'. Left figure shows mild disease with on& distal lower extremities involved. figure on right has more severe disease with proximal extension in lower extremities and distal upper extremities are also involved

professional legal information vital to physiotherapists working in the domiciliary or residential home environment, o r for those planning community services.

The second section explores organisational aspects such as joint care management, interprofessional and collaborative working practice.

The third section examines some essential practitioner skills required for helping people within their own environment. There is a particularly useful chapter which addresses ways in which practitioners may become more skilled in managing Family situations to the benefit of all, especially identified clients.

The final section focuses on the needs of practitioners, with an emphasis on problem solving and improving planning and organisation of the treatment process. In addition it explores a range o f teaching strategies relevant to community practice.

The chapters are well written and include case studies and individual o r group exercises to help readers understand and relate key issues to their experience and practice. Appropriate references are listed.

This is a comprehensive book, good value for money and an asset for university libraries, individuals, and commrinity teams and services.

Pat Sumner BA MCSP

Physiotherapy November 20OO/vol86/no I I