'The Mechanics' teach the what, where, and when of preventing, identifying, and treating back pain, a condition that affects an estimated 31 million people Jim and Phil Wharton have served as personal trainers to Patrick Ewing, Lance Armstrong, Michael Johnson, Julia Roberts, and 70 Olympic medalists. They're in demand almost everywhere! Their expertise in both rehab and 'prehab' will be a welcome resource for more than 31 million Americans who suffer from back pain and for those who want to prevent injury. -Understand why injuries in other parts of the body can be traced to back problems. -Learn the Whartons' revolutionary approach: Active-Isolated Stretching and Strengthening. -Treat back problems stemming from more than 50 conditions, activities, and sports-related injuries. -Keep your back strong with a workout routine that meets your lifestyle. -Already hurting? Identify the source and follow a short-term program to relieve pain and restore flexibility. -Understand the latest diagnostic tools and get an overview of all of your treatment options. -A Lifestyle section discusses other back-related issues, from body weight and osteoporosis to work, tension, and the way you sleep. JIM AND PHIL WHARTON, both exercise physiologists, divide their time between their clinic in New York City and the Wharton Performance Center in Cleveland, Ohio. BEV BROWNING is a health and fitness writer and co-author of four of the Whartons' books. She lives and runs in Florida.