Book excerpt: The 2nd Edition of this unique book examines the functional anatomy of the lower back. From this perspective, it develops a system for evaluating the origins of mechanical low back pain, and recommends steps for developing safe, active rehabilitation programs. Beautifully illustrated and easy-to-use, the text cohesively integrates kinesiology, biomechanics, and anatomy with pain therapy. This edition includes more clinical applications, an algorithm of care for managing low back pain, specific methods to train abdominal and trunk extensor mechanisms, and a new section on teaching the patient self-management strategies.