The Joint Parameters window is the best way, so you can test each joint as you change the parameters... plus, it's almost impossible to accurately do spherical falloff zones without it. Personally, I don't like doing it either, but once you're done, there is so much a sense of satisfaction... Of course, I also go ahead and change the names of the Xrot, etc, dials to the appropriate "Twist", "Bend" and "SideToSide" while I'm messing with the appropriate joint parameter.

Remember, kids! Napalm is Nature's Toothpaste!