This user-friendly book will guide the reader to understand how Balanced Ligamentous Tension (BLT) can be used as a therapeutic principle in the practice of osteopathy. BLT is seen by many as an indispensable bridge between the better known ''structural'' and ''cranial'' approaches and is an essential part of the osteopathic heritage. In using ''the gentle exaggeration of the lesion'', this approach is rooted in the original teaching of AT Still, the founder of osteopathy and that of his student W G Sutherland, who realised that from the point of balanced tension ''the ligaments move the bones back into place'' spontaneously. This teaching was passed on directly to the author by William Sutherland''s friend and student, Anne Wales D.O.

The application of BLT is powerful, precise and specific but is also comfortable for the patient. It has therefore been welcomed with interest by osteopaths around the world who seek to work precisely, with comfort and safety for the patient. As well as giving technical guidance and acting as a reference, this book is steeped in osteopathic philosophy and seeks to nurture understanding of the reciprocal relationship between structural integrity and healthy function. By illustrating how the contact we make on the outside of the body influences the spatial environment of physiology within, this approach gives the practitioner the potential to engage therapeutically with the patient''s body and being, with effective results.

Sue Turner has been teaching osteopathic principles and practice for over 40 years. This engaging book, written by Sue and her experienced contributors is a must for all practitioners of osteopathy.