Back Together: Hands-on Healing for Couples (Spiral-bound)

by Andrew Kirschner (Author)

Editorial Reviews

From Publishers Weekly
A foreword by the Philadelphia Eagles' Brian Dawkins, a first chapter entitled "This Is Not a Self-Help Book" and a first line that says "I hate self-help books" make clear the author's intention that this volume not be dismissed as a touchy-feely love fest. Rather, it's meant to be a practical, partner-based guide to understanding and treating back and neck pain. But it does cover topics outside the specific and scientific realm of pain: the very real "jealousy and resentment," for example, that can occur "when your wife's masseuse looks like Ricky Martin," reflections on "the joy and pain of couplehood" and how physical pain can change the nature of a relationship, and a couples' hand-holding exercise that even the author admits is touchy-feely). Still, it does provide straightforward information about why pain exists and when at-home treatment is not appropriate, detailed descriptions of hands-on techniques with illustrations and photographs, and informative explanations for why these techniques work. Kirschner also addresses lifestyle habits that can contribute to the alleviation of pain. The practicalities of this book, together with the relationship musings and encouraged togetherness, make it a feel-good read on many levels. Photos. (Jan.)
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Product Description
An estimated 30 million Americans experience low back pain at any given time. Many seek relief through surgery, medication, and physical therapy. But self-help has a great appeal for those who'd like to learn to relieve pain at home without costly professional treatment. Now, couples, partners, and family members can follow safe, effective, hands-on techniques to help each other relieve back, neck, and musculoskeletal pain. Dr. Andrew Kirschner uses a clear, descriptive style and detailed photographs to demonstrate more than 30 easily accomplished techniques. He also discusses the psychological aspects of chronic pain, and how that affects the dynamics within the relationship and the family. Kirschner has found that "the skilled touch of a loved one can have a more positive, lasting effect on one's well being than any technique applied by a physician or therapist," and offers plenty of anecdotal proof in this exciting new book. More than 60 terrific how-to photographs (taken at the beach rather than in a studio, for a more accessible and upbeat approach) give a concise picture of how simple these techniques can be.

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Product Details

• Spiral-bound: 160 pages
• Publisher: Running Press (December 26, 2005)
• Language: English
• ISBN-10: 0762424036
• ISBN-13: 978-0762424030
• Product Dimensions: 9 x 8.2 x 0.6 inches
• Shipping Weight: 1.2 pounds (View shipping rates and policies)
• Average Customer Review: 4.9 out of 5 stars See all reviews (10 customer reviews)
• Amazon.com Sales Rank: #864,565 in Books (See Bestsellers in Books)

Customer Reviews

Most Helpful Customer Reviews

5 of 5 people found the following review helpful:

4.0 out of 5 stars Refreshing and practical outlook on pain, December 30, 2005

By	kevinkmny (NY) - See all my reviews

I have been a chronic back and neck pain sufferer for years. Old sports injuries, car/motorcycle accidents, and major amounts of stress all contributed to a constant and predictable level of pain in my life.

When I had money I regularly saw massage therapists, accupuncturists and the like and when I did not I treated my pain with ibuprofen or simply resigned myself to living with it.

Dr. Kirschner's book has been a refreshing tool in helping me tackle a persistent and frustrating condition. My wife has applied several of the techniques to me with positive results (including ones that have helped relieve some of the pain and pressure associated with my chronic sinusaitis). While I have a ways to go, the simple fact that I am no longer popping Advils like Pez candy is a major improvement in my day to day activities. I have also realized how much I had resigned myself to living with a certain level of pain and how that alone has curtailed my activity and ability to enjoy the simple things.

I would love to see these techniques on video. While the book is a great resource seeing these techniques "live" would help my wife and I really understand their application.

4 of 4 people found the following review helpful:

5.0 out of 5 stars You rock Andrew!, March 22, 2006

By	Pauline Westcott "MW" (New York) - See all my reviews

I absolutely love this book! I've been a chronic neck and back pain sufferer for more than 7 years and this book has really saved my life. No more am I trying to explain how to adjust my back based on what feels like my I've read the book cover to cover. It's a permenant fixture on my coffee table now! Thanks for writing a practical, hands on, fix to my pain!

4 of 4 people found the following review helpful:

5.0 out of 5 stars Easy for a layperson to follow, December 27, 2005

By	C. Ingalls (Brooklyn, NY, USA) - See all my reviews

Wonderfully written. Very intelligent & chock full of information, yet extremely easy to get into. Andrew Kirschner's ideas are very fresh & innovative. A user friendly guide to overcoming back pain. I was able to help my wife with the techniques, which are not complicated. A must read for anyone looking for a back fix without medications or surgery.