Behavioral factors affect both the etiology and the prognosis of musculoskeletal disorders. Application of behavioral interventions contributes to the prevention of musculoskeletal disorders and to the reduction of pain, disability, and sick leave in patients with established disorders. Focusing on the role of cognitive, emotional, and behavioral factors, this special issue aims to further understanding of the interactions between behavioral factors and musculoskeletal disorders. In addition, its intent is to stimulate contributions from this growing field of research.

Osteoarthritis (OA) is among the top 10 of most disabling diseases in the Western world. It is the major cause of pain and disability among the elderly. This book provides a contextual review of recent research on neuromuscular factors and behavioral risk factors for functional decline in OA, with a special emphasis on explanatory mechanisms. In addition, the book discusses innovative approaches to exercise and physical activity in OA, derived from research on behavioral and neuromuscular risk factors for functional decline in OA. Recent research has shown that neuromuscular factors (such as muscle strength, joint laxity) and behavioral factors (such as avoidance of activity, depressed mood) predict pain and disability in OA. Furthermore, exercise and physical activity are among the dominant interventions aiming at reducing pain and disability, and innovative interventions targeting neuromuscular and behavioral interventions have been recently developed. This research has been published as separate papers, with the result that the field is in need of an integrative contextual review that puts the research into theoretical perspective. TARGETED MARKET SEGMENTS Rehabilitation specialists, health psychologists, gerontologists, rheumatologists, pain specialists

Optimality theory has revolutionized phonological theory, and its insights are now being applied to other central aspects of language. With contributors that include the leading researchers in the field, this book presents the fruits of the research as applied to syntax and to language acquisition, as well as considering the main lines of attack on OT by rule-based grammarians.This book is intended for a broad range of linguists at graduate level and above, including students, academics, and researchers.

Optimality Theory has revolutionized phonological theory, and its insights are now being applied to other central aspects of language. With contributors that include the leading researchers in the field, this book presents the first fruits of such research as applied to syntax and to language acquisition, as well as considering the main lines of attack on OT by rule-based grammarians. Essential reading for linguists at graduate level and above.