Trigger Point Therapy for Myofascial Pain: The Practice of Informed Touch

BODYWORKMyofascial pain syndromes are among the fastest growing problems that physicians, osteopaths, acupuncturists, and physical, occupational, and massage therapists encounter in their patients. In Trigger Point Therapy for Myofascial Pain Donna and Steven Finando have organized vast amounts of information on treating muscle pain into an accessible and comprehensive clinical reference manual for healthcare practitioners. They examine a wide range of pain patterns and present evaluation and palpation techniques for reducing trigger points--and thereby alleviating pain--in the most clinically significant musculature of the body. This revised and fully expanded edition of Informed Touch begins with chapters on the concept of qi and its relationship to myology, the reasons for trigger point development, and palpatory skill-building techniques. Subsequent sections provide detailed information on individual muscles to teach clinicians to locate quickly and accurately specific points of pain and patterns of compensation. In addition to anatomical diagrams of trigger points and pain patterns, each muscle discussion includes illustrations showing self-help stretching techniques for home care. A visual index summarizes pain patterns and the muscles that may be involved. Trigger Point Therapy for Myofascial Pain is an invaluable resource for any professional involved with myofascial disorders. DONNA FINANDO, L.Ac., L.M.T., has taught myology and myofascial meridian therapy throughout the country for more than twenty years. STEVEN FINANDO, Ph.D., L.Ac., is currently on the advisory board for the New York Chiropractic College School of Acupuncture and Oriental Medicine. Both studied extensively with Janet Travell, M.D., a pioneer in the field of pain management. Donna and Steven live on Long Island, New York, where they have been in continual practice for the past twenty-nine years.