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.