The second edition of this textbook contains new material, including additional chapters on the elderly, adult mental handicap, psychiatric illness, aspects of obstetrics and gynaecology and veterinary physiotherapy. All chapters have been revised and notes made of topical issues such as AIDS, infertility, rape, abortion and euthanasia. The inclusion of these topics in relevant sections highlights the need for physiotherapists to be aware of how their work may bring them into contact with the wider aspects of medical science. The editors previous books include “Lifting, Handling and Helping Patients” and “Cancer Rehabilitation”.