Book excerpt: Jim Johnson has researched hundreds of scientific journal articles to find and test the simplest most effective do-it-yourself treatments for knee pain. In this compact and accessible book, he shows readers exactly how to improve and maintain the functioning of their knees by enhancing the four crucial abilities every knee must have: ** muscular strength ** flexibility ** responsiveness (proprioception) ** endurance A chapter is devoted to each of these four functions, showing why they are essential. The reader is shown exactly how to do simple home exercises designed to restore or improve that particular ability. The last chapter is a "master plan" that pulls together all the concepts and exercises into a time-efficient exercise program. The author guides the reader effortlessly through the exercise routine. Clear drawings illustrate the muscles responsible for knee pain and the exact way to do the exercises. All the information is based on research trials and studies and evidence from peer-reviewed journals. The author has chosen for this book the best techniques for relieving knee pain.