The subject of the book reflects its goal by presenting a comprehensive overview of the principles and practices from the most significant schools of thought that have influenced modern orthopedic manual therapy.

The concise, selective, and bibliographically substantiated manner in which the book has been written facilitates its use for guiding clinical practice. This book will strive to achieve the critical balance between theory and clinical application.

Throughout the text, emphasis is placed on evaluating concepts in light of the best available data, allowing the reader to connect theory and practice through a process of critical thinking.

The book focuses on supporting the development of the physical therapy student and the therapist as a specialist in "applied kinesiology."

Despite the meticulous attention given to every detail in the execution of techniques, the manual techniques presented in the book are considered secondary to the development of the reader's clinical decision-making skills.