Essays on the Craft of Manual Care
Shallow Dive: Essays on the Craft of Manual Care is an inspired compilation of works by physical therapist and columnist Barrett Dorko. These popular and challenging essays examine both common and uncommon issues in manual care and physical therapy. Barrett Dorko relays his experiences, both clinical and non-clinical, in this important work. Through careful introspection and contemplation, he translates these experiences into thought-provoking concepts regarding health care, therapy, and life itself.
The book is divided into sections dealing with theory, assessment, treatment, and the changes possible in the life of a clinician. Shallow Dive emphasizes the human aspects of a work that is easily reduced to pathology, anatomy, and biomechanics. Barrett Dorko’s diverse essays point the way toward specific techniques in manual therapy, but are more likely to wonder aloud about some of the traditional ways in which therapy is practiced and the many ways therapists may be changed by what they do.
“Great reading and great reflection.”
Stanley Paris, Ph.D., P.T.
“Finally, a book that speaks to the heart and spirit of the therapist.”
Rebecca Stephenson, P.T.
“Should be on the required reading list for students and experienced practitioners alike. His footnotes and references are priceless.”
Joseph Kahn, Ph.D., P.T.
“If you deliver manual care, this book will be a favorite in your library.”
Diane Lee, P.T.
“The overall effect is that of intellect and compassion.”
South African Journal of Physiotherapy
“Gives you a fuller sense of the practice of physical therapy, and of the poetry of this practice.”
Somatics: The Magazine/Journal of the Bodily Arts and Sciences
“Offers an alternative of another deeper but gentle approach.”
British Journal of Physiotherapy
“Shallow Dive courts the soul.”
The Museletter of The National Association for Poetry Therapy
“Shallow Dive joins a small company of books that truly capture the depth of what can happen and what therapist and clients/patients can learn through paying close and caring attention to the body-mind.”
David Lauterstein, Co-Director, Lauterstein-Conway Massage School, Austin, TX