Overcoming Paralysis : Into the Water and Out of the Wheelchair [Paperback]

Biehler (Author), Burdenko (Author)

Book Description

Publication Date: May 1, 1999

A motorcycle accident made Scott Biehler a paraplegic. This book tells the inspiring story of his recovery-and details the revolutionary "Burdenko method" of water and land exercises that made it possible for him to move his legs again. Here is an indispensable guide to getting better for anyone who suffers from paralysis.

Editorial Reviews

From Library Journal

While this book is ostensibly written by both Burdenko, physical therapist to sports stars Nancy Kerrigan and Kevin McHale, and Biehler, who was paralyzed after a motorcycle accident, it is Burdenko's voice that dominates. The book is intended as "a practical application of the Burdenko Method to help wheelchair users...overcome the difficulties they experience and improve the quality of their everyday lives," but the subtext seems to be that "you can walk again if you follow this method." What makes this book so disconcerting is the thinness of this consistently implied message. Burdenko's web page is full of testimonials from sports stars and others lauding his use of water therapy in rehabilitation, conditioning, and training but none about using the method to overcome paralysis. Indeed, there seems to be nothing reported anywhere about this particular method and the regeneration of nerves. The book itself consists of a detailed description of the Burdenko Method, instructions for 54 land-based and 60 water-based exercises, and a short bibliography. Overall, it is a disappointing book; not recommended.AKate Kelly, Massachusetts General Hosp. Lib., Boston
Copyright 1999 Reed Business Information, Inc.

Product Details

• Paperback: 240 pages
• Publisher: Avery (May 1, 1999)
• Language: English
• ISBN-10: 089529883X
• ISBN-13: 978-0895298836
• Product Dimensions: 9 x 5.9 x 0.7 inches
• Shipping Weight: 15.2 ounces
• Average Customer Review: 5.0 out of 5 stars  See all reviews (1 customer review)
• Amazon Best Sellers Rank: #1,590,237 in Books (See Top 100 in Books)

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Customer Reviews

Most Helpful Customer Reviews

1 of 1 people found the following review helpful:

5.0 out of 5 stars Useful for people seeking to improve function & their therapists, February 25, 2007

By 

Shirlbrow (Tamarac, FL) - See all my reviews

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This review is from: Overcoming Paralysis : Into the Water and Out of the Wheelchair (Paperback)

Inspiring narrative. Informative pictures. I bought multiple copies & shared with therapists & family. Wish there were more practitioners available especially for aquatics. Exercises help reduce spasticity and improve flexibility. Highly recomended!