Appraisal Media

A classic text
Val Robertson, Alex Ward, John Low to have been better included as another ‘introductory’
and Ann Reed (2006) Electrotherapy chapter in the book.
Explained: principles and practice (4th Chapter 8 focuses on biofeedback (a topic infrequently
edn). Edinburgh: Butterworth Heinemann covered in electrotherapy texts), and provides an overview
Elsevier. ISBN-10: 0 7506 8843 2/ISBN-13: of common clinical approaches and techniques (eg, use of
978-0-7506-8843-7 Softbound, 554 pages electromyography), as well as outlining applications for a
variety of clinical conditions.
RRP $90.00
Ultrasound is covered in Chapter 9, focusing primarily on
This is the fourth edition of what is now recognised (rightly) therapeutic applications which are covered in most depth;
as a classic physiotherapy text. In keeping with previous however the chapter also provides overviews of related
editions, Electrotherapy Explained differs from most other applications and treatments such as diagnostic ultrasound,
contemporary electrotherapy textbooks in that it focuses on longwave ultrasound, and phonophoresis.
the basic and applied sciences which underpin the clinical
application of electrophysical agents; however, this edition The following three chapters (10–12) cover therapeutic
also includes pertinent information on current evidence applications of heat and cold, including paraffin wax,
to support the use of these modalities. All of the book’s hydrocollator packs, contrast baths, and hydrotherapy. Some
authors are well-known and recognised internationally for of these topics are–perhaps understandably given space
their work within the field of electrophysical agents. In constraints–given superficial treatment in places. However
addition to John Low and Ann Reed, who were the original there is much useful material, such as a schematic diagram
authors of the first edition of the book (first published in summarising the proposed mechanisms of pain relief using
1990), the new edition is also co-authored by Val Robertson heat.
and Alex Ward (from the University of Newcastle, and La
Trobe University respectively). Chapters 13–15 are devoted to various types of
electromagnetic energy, including: shortwave diathermy,
This edition of Electrotherapy Explained benefits from a pulsed electromagnetic energy, and magnetic therapy
comprehensive revision of the design and presentation of (Chapters 13), principles underpinning treatment with
the book; this includes a striking new cover, an attractive, electromagnetic radiation (Chapter 14), and microwave
easy-to-read layout (incorporating text boxes and diathermy (Chapter 15). The final two chapters focus on
summaries to highlight key points), and the use of high- infrared and visible radiation, including laser therapy
quality illustrations throughout. In addition to the written (Chapter 16), and ultraviolet radiation (Chapter 17).
material, the book also comes with a CD comprising
electronic versions of two complementary texts by two of The scientific basis of the therapeutic use of electrophysical
the authors: Physical Principles Explained (by Low and modalities is complex and frequently misunderstood by
Reed, previously published in 1994), and Biophysical Bases therapists (see Baxter 2002), a situation often exacerbated
of Electrotherapy (by Reed). The second of these does not by confusing terminology, and exaggerated claims in
print, but is designed for ‘on screen’ reading: a frustration manufacturers’ literature. Lack of awareness of the
for those of us of a certain age. biophysical principles underpinning treatment with
electrophysical agents also affects researchers who often
Chapters 1 and 2 provide the introduction and background fail to appreciate, or misunderstand, the biological and
for the book, including an overview of the historical context clinical relevance of manipulation of treatment parameters.
to the clinical use of electrophysical agents, together with This book, like its previous editions, represents an effective
sections on principles of application, scientific evidence, antidote to such problems, and provides a unique, single-
and the biophysical and physiological bases underpinning source reference which is particularly suitable for the student
treatment. or educator; however, clinicians will also find its material
useful. If there is a criticism, it is the imbalance in focus on
Subsequent chapters build logically upon this introductory electrotherapeutic modalities which are infrequently used
material. Chapters 3–6 are dedicated to the therapeutic in contemporary practice (eg, shortwave diathermy and
use of electrical currents; the first two provide the reader ultraviolet radiation).
with details on electrostimulation parameters (including
waveforms, electrodes, and placements) and the relevance G David Baxter
of these to physiological effects in stimulated tissue. University of Otago, New Zealand
Chapters 5 and 6 then deal with muscle/motor stimulation
and sensory stimulation/pain relief respectively; these References
highlight the key issues and debates within the field, and the Baxter D (2002) Physical therapists: masters of their science?
relevance to clinical application (including the relevance of [Editorial] Physical Therapy Reviews 7: 65–66.
fatigue and fibre selectivity), and also touch upon the use of
electrostimulation for the promotion of wound healing.
Chapter 7 is devoted to risk management (or safety issues)
with electrophysical agents, and includes several useful
summary tables on relative risks and means of reducing
risks of cross-infection. While this is an important chapter,
its placement within the text seemed odd, and would appear

Australian Journal of Physiotherapy 2006 Vol. 52 – © Australian Physiotherapy Association 2006 311