This long awaited text is the first of two volumes which presents the theories, validation and techniques of manual treatment for both chronic and acute neuromuscular pain and somatic dysfunction. Unlike many other texts, the theory and practice are described within the context of the normal anatomy and physiology of the related structures. The book takes a regional approach to treatment, giving a structural review of each area, including ligaments and functional anatomy. It then examines each muscle and joint in that region, giving step-by-step protocols for each muscle to be treated, using a variety of neuromuscular approaches. Particular reference is made to the treatment of trigger points. Each joint and muscle has the same sequence of headings making it easy for the reader to dip into what they need to review. Numerous two colour illustrations also appear throughout, making the anatomy and techniques described easier to follow. The two authors have drawn together and integrated information that currently has to be accessed from several sources. The result is a text which will do much to ensure the safe and effective application of soft tissue techniques and which will provide an invaluable source of reference to all manual therapy students and practitioners.