Edited by Dominik Irnich, MD, this clearly written and fully illustrated multi-contributor volume offers practical, comprehensive coverage of the subject area ranging from the latest scientific research findings to practical usage of current manual therapy techniques. Including the latest information from centres of excellence throughout the world, this new book is suitable for osteopathic physicians, osteopaths, chiropractors, manual therapists, physiotherapists, acupuncturists and massage therapists as well as general physicians working in primary care, physical medicine, rehabilitation, pain management and internal medicine. "I'm happy to say that this book is excellent and addresses all my concerns!" Reviewed by InTouch (Physio First's journal) , Jan 2015 Offers practical and clinically relevant information to all practitioners and therapists working in the field Edited by an international expert in pain management and trigger point therapy Abundant use of pull-out boxes, line artwork, photographs and tables facilitates ease of understanding Carefully prepared by a worldwide team of clinically active and research oriented contributors to provide helpful and clinically relevant information Presents the latest research findings for many aspects of trigger point therapy Provides a holistic view of patient care including the importance of patient communication and psychological aspects of pain control Provides a handy reference for rapid and effective diagnosis and treatment of trigger points Highlights the 65 most important muscles in a comprehensive practical style which includes anatomy, symptoms, pain patterns, physical examination and strategies for effective treatment Offers an ideal resource for training courses in trigger point injection, osteopathy, manual therapy and acupuncture Suitable for osteopathic physicians, osteopaths, chiropractors, manual therapists, acupuncturists and massage therapists as well as general physicians working in primary care, physical medicine, rehabilitation, pain management and internal medicine

Table of Contents:
Section 1 The background 1 Guide to the book 2 Terminology 3 Epidemiology 4 Etiology of myofascial pain syndrome 5 The anatomy and physiology of the muscles 6 Pathophysiology 7 The trigger point as expression of a functional disorder of the locomotor system 8 Trigger points and myofascial pain - acupuncture points and meridian system 9 Myofascial trigger points and fascia 10 Fibromyalgia syndrome 11 Myofascial trigger points and somatoform pain 12 Integrated holistic consideration of the muscles 13 Diagnosis of myofascial pain 14 Differential diagnosis Section 2 Treatment of myofascial pain 15 Principles of treatment 16 Peculiarities of doctor-patient relationship with chronic pain 17 Selection of suitable treatments 18 Manual therapies and physiotherapeutic procedures 19 Treatment concept - myofascial trigger point therapy 20 Physical procedures 21 Trigger point infiltration 22 Acupuncture and related procedures 23 Complementary and alternative therapy methods and naturopathic treatments 24 Relaxation techniques - body and mind 25 Systemic pharmacotherapy Section 3 Muscles and trigger points 26 Head 27 Throat, neck and shoulder region 28 Shoulder and upper arm 29 Elbow, forearm and hand 30 Thoracic spine and thorax 31 Abdomen 32 Lumbar spine, pelvis and hip region (pelvic girdle) 33 Hip, thigh and knee 34 Lower leg and foot