Back Together: Hands-On Healing for Couples

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.)