"Geoffrey Walsh's unusual book can be read at several levels by readers from a variety of disparate specialities and disciplines, and all can find in this monograph much to interest and even amuse. Dr. Walsh is clearly a most inventive scientist who has used his talents to design novel appartus to enable the biomechanical characteristics of the human musculoskeletal system to be analysed with regard to joint function, posture, and the control of movement.... a welcome resource on the biomechanical characteristics of the human body....It is likely to be greatly appreciated by all interested in the fundamentals of human physiology and by clinicians concerned with disorders of motor control. It is also relevant to physiotherapy and other remedial professions, especially as a starting point for clinical research." Richard Edwards, British Medical Journal
"The work is remarkable in a number of ways; almost all of its results derive from the author's own work and depend upon mechanical contrivances of often fiendish ingenuity which he...has built—and many of which are illustrated; they are often as fascinating as the problems which they have attacked....This unusual book, well produced and profusely illustrated, is recommended to all who are interested in the physiology of the control of movement or in the treatment of its disorders." Experimental Physiology
"...a most valuable reference text for all of us who treat patients with a large variety of muscular disorders. It is absolutely essential to provide a basic understanding of neuromuscular-derived syndromes. I very highly recommend purchase and thorough study of this wonderful knowledgeable treatise." Journal of Neurological & Orthopaedic Medicine & Surgery
"...would make a useful contribution to libraries and departmental collections." Maria Stokes, Physiotherapy
"...compiles different aspects of how muscles operate, and presents interesting concepts related to the determination of the characteristics of muscle....A unique perspective on the measurement of muscle function. Recommended." A.H. Goldfarb, Choice
"A glossary and introductory chapter are of great assistance in clarifying terms and concepts. The overall organization of the text is excellent, with logical progression from one concept to the next...Readers interested in the historical developments of research in biomechanics will find Walsh's text to be a valuable and entertaining reference." Elizabeth H. Littell, Physical Therapy
This book is a compendium of the current knowledge about the biomechanics of movement control in normal persons and a reinterpretation of the neurophysiologic aspects of a disturbed motor system. The author, a well known physiologist, attempts an explanation of clinically-observed muscular weakness and stiffness by the application of vaguely applied biomechanical principles. The book, which seems to be intended for clinicians, may be more appropriate for researchers of abnormal movement states. The book features an interesting table of contents; however, the chapters are loosely organized with often difficult-to-interpret illustrations. A glossary of biomechanical terms may be of interest, although its application to the muscular system is occasionally confusing. The book may be of curious significance to those interested in biomechanics and the concepts of inertia, resonant frequency, thixotrophy, and the plastic characteristics of muscle; however, clinical applicability will need further study.
