WT BWce *s %pW^fw^M' l^.rtAA. myytffcfafa ^ UC^a/V^!^* ; OW i^ lA/COO-O^COO-^ _ Sar:tegn General's Office f^?f;»^D;^ 3£ fP #i?j cticn. N0....4 ±.u.m,.^ 'I* x^gcoqgog aoo jocac*" IPTO~0_I 1 11 EM I 1-1.1 *#**&w****\m*-:mM v^w^^^^r::::::. *AAf*\A^*^AA. »AAaAAaAA*^ .V^^n^.fl^^' d^S^*^C^- w ,*^«^'P^^AA/ iAa^a*a#v „■■■,-■ '"'" '—aaAAa %^a*^aaaa^^^aa ; . ^*^^^ /*?V,^::' .-^^aaaa** AArr^ Sw^ ^a"^:*ii^aefl^tfw??!^*^!^ * aaa^aMW :v:m" *?,'■' kAAl. A. A At* A *..... A A* A vJ-V«aVAaPA?* . ftAAAA^A.^,A^'^^c.C2^^5r:- ^A>a^aV^T lMr^f ,A^^\n, .AaAAaAAa A'**^'** *'V^..~ aaaA-&*. ". 2*AaAAAAA*iM&£&i (J *>• COMMON SENSE ON CHRONIC DISEASES; A RATIONAL TREATISE, f * ON THE MECHANICAL CAUSE AND CURE OF MOST CHRONIC AFFECTIONS OF THE TRUNCAL 0RGAN1 OF BOTH MALE AND FEMALE SYSTEMS. EMBRACING THE AUTHOR'S VIEWS ON PHYSICAL EDUCATION. AND TH* PRESENT POPULAR SYSTEM OF ARTIFICIAL LIFE. BY DR. E. P. BANNING \ -rrr* r.r:nf' 7 . -..'>. SIXTH EDITION " i'W/y" NEW YORK PAINE & BURGESS, 60 JOHN STREET. 1846. / rftfce. Entered according to A<;t of Congress, in thr year 1844, by E. P. BANNING, In the Clerk's Office of the District Court of the United States, for the District of Massachusetts. Entered according to Act of Congress, in the year 1845, by E. P. BANNING, In the Clerk s office of the District Court of the United States, for the Southern Di»- trict of New York. PREFACE TO THE SECOND EDITION. The ready consumption of the first edition of this work, and its already manifest good effects, are my only apology for this second edition. The preface to the first puts forth my object and ambition in this—nor does this differ from the first, only in a few extended cases, and remarks, illustrative of points not clear before. Let me invoke the Professional and common deader to read, and to criticize on the contained doctrines and sentiments only; being conscious that these only will stand the test. I believe that if parents, and the young, were to read this work universally, tongue could not tell the amount of salutary results. I regret that time has not permitted me to take up the all important subject of physical education, which must be left, to a special work on that subject. That this work may be extensively read, and that those who read may feel and see as satisfying results as I have seen in hundreds of cases, is my earnest desire. Author. JJ/U CONTENTS. INTRODUCTION,........• CHAPTER I. The TRUNK—THE SPINE—the ribs, ... - 23 CHAPTER II. Soft parts—the intercostal muscles—the diaphragm, - 26 CHAPTER III. The contents of the chest, and their mechanical rela- tions AND INFLUENCES--THE HEART--THE MOVING POWER OF THE HEART--THE LUNGS--EXPLANATION OF THE OBJECT AND TANGIBLE PROCESS OF RESPIRATION—INSPIRATION, - 30 CHAPTER IV. The pelvic organs and walls—the urinary bladder— the uterus or womb—the abdominal contents and walls--the visceral ligaments, 37 CHAPTER V. Abdominal muscles,.......44 CHAPTER VI. Abnormal or unnatural relations—the morbid influ- ence on the urinary bladder—morbid effect on the rectum or large bowel—morbid effects on the uterus and its appendages--the liver—the stomach. 52 CHAPTER VII. Mechanical influences of relaxation and action on the chest—the lungs—philosophy of the pulmonary cir- culation as connected with the function of respira- tion—effects of lacing--morbid influence on the voice--the fundamental laws of motion, 67 CHAPTER VIII. Spinal affections, 93 PART SECOND. CHAPTER I. THE CURATIVE INVENTIONS AND AGENCIES—BRONCHITIS— WEAK AND UNNATURAL VOICE—TREATMENT AND CURE— AFFECTIONS OF THE LUNGS—SYMPTOMS OF AFFECTIONS OF THE LUNGS—CALISTHENIC EXERCISES—RESPIRATORY EXER- CISES—PALPITATION OF THE HEART—HYSTERIA—HYPO- CHONDRIA—DYSPEPSY--CALISTHENIC AND GYMNASTIC EXER- CISES, ---------- CHAPTER II. Affections of the liver—dysentery and chronic diar- rhoea—chronic peritonitis, or general tenderness of the abdomen—constipation of the bowels—piles or hemorrhoids--pain in the left side, or chronic in- flammation of the spleen--retention and too fre- quent discharge of urine--affections of the spine-- cases showing the superiority of the lace over the brass corsets--effects of the lace on weak children —habitual colic—influence of the lace during preg- nancy--the influence of the lace in child-bed--the use of the lace in uterine hemorrhage and pro- fuse menstruation--leucorrhcea, or whites--cedema, or swelling of the lower extremities--varicose veins—obesity or fatness--the use of the lace on subjects predisposed to and afflicted by hernia or ruptures—prolapsus uteri, ----- CHAPTER III. The proper exercise, or physical and habitual treat- ment OF THE BODY—THE PERNICIOUS TENDENCY OF MODERN PRACTICES IN MANY ITEMS OF DRESS—MALE DRESS—FEMALE DRESS. ------- Explanation of plates, • PREFACE. The Author simply means by the title of this work, that the principles of the book directly address the common sense of all, as being either palpably true or false. The quaint, or what some may consider the too common style and expression of the work has been intentional, so that through it, while the medical proficient can of course under- stand, the quite common reader may be brought to feel confi- dence in his own judgment on the reasoning, though he could not, did it assume a higher style of address and expression. To this end, technical terms have been avoided, as far as could well be, and when indulged in, generally explained. Our general design has been to instruct the people, and make suggestions only to the medical profession. The contained sentiments are commended to the confidence of the popular reader, and to the courteous criticism and experiment of the profession. The Author has not designed to put out a system of medi- cine, or an infallible cure for anything, but to show that there was a real distinction between mechanical and vital diseases, or those requiring mechanical or vital remedies, and that one will not answer the place of the other ; also that the mechanical diseases, or causes of disease, are more common and extensive than is generally supposed. Though some things, mere matters of opinion and theory, may not be true, yet the practical part of the work he knows to be true from long and extensive ex- perience. Indeed, he feels that Christian and philanthropic viii preface. duty has demanded the work at his hands, and hopes that its minor imperfections may be lost in the contemplation and ap- plication of its major and practical features. If his views of prolapsus, costiveness, piles, dyspepsy, heart, lung and spine affections, are even half or a quarter true, they, even then, are of immense value to both the profession and the world. Let them not be rejected then, as they are harmless, and do not interfere with any other proper treatment simulta- neously. One thing the Author knows, viz., that many poor, afflicted, broken down and disconsolate souls, who read this, will be struck with the sympathy of the book with them, and even then feel a flush of hope arise in their bosoms, in despite of their many past disappointments, and present discourage- ments. The sedentary, literary and clerical community may find, in the practising by this work, a great antidote to their ills, and remedy for them. But the work itself will be its own best expositor, and that it may be extensively and attentively read, and be the means of great good, is the earnest and sincere prayer of the humble Author. COMMON SENSE. INTRODUCTION. The subject of the ensuing work, unlike other important sub- jects, is very happy in many respects. Some subjects of vast importance, press their claims for attention only on the forbid- ding plea of necessity, and receive a forced and unwilling notice. Others are of a character wholly intellectual, and of a literary or moral cast; such will elicit a willing and happy attention from the few who are formed by nature or education to delight in these themes. Others, again, address only the taste, and feed the volatile senses and passions; of course offering but few charms to those of a practical and moral cast of mind. Indeed, there is almost an infinite variety of character in the subjects chosen by different writers, and adapted to the varied tastes and wants of a diversified world; but, from religion, down to the most gro- velling topic, there is but one theme that possesses a charm in its name and import—vibrates on every heart, and addresses every taste and turn of mind, from the devout religionist to the confirmed materialist, from the rich to the poor, the learned and the ignorant; that theme is the health of the human body. While every son and daughter of Adam continues to possess one common organization, and remain under one and the same set of laws; and while they all continue to feel in their bodies the effects of the fall, so long will there be a perpetual exposure to some variety or other of the physical woes, that, in their turn, afflict our fallen race; and, consequently, while the love of life or the fear of death, the desire of ease and dread of pain, hold their empire over man, so long will the subject of human health be important and interesting to all alike. In this view of the subject, it appears that the theme of this work lays hold on the dearest earthly interests of society. Upon its consideration, or the comparative state of health, depends the enjoyment of all the ties of consanguinity—the continued and reciprocal happiness of husband and wife, pa- 10 INTRODUCTION. rent and child, brother and sister, friend and neighbor, and also our individual comfort, as connected with the laws of life, and the uncertain wheel of casualty. Then (waving the question of competency to do this subject justice), do not the above considerations offer an ample apology for a popular treatise on this topic ? But here we may be met by some churlish " dog in the manger"—some snarling member of the profession, who is ready to acknowledge the force of the subject, but who cannot see the propriety of presenting to the people, in a popular form, subjects so abstruse, and so far out of their province, asserting that there is a profession whose express object and province it is to investigate these matters, draw the proper inferences, and deal them out to a dying community, at their discretion, and as, in their view, they may need; who cannot see what the people have to do with the principles of human physiology. In reply to the above notion (if a reply is necessary), I would say, in the simplicity and honesty of my heart, whoi besides the afflicted and suffering people, have, or should have, a clearer right to be addressed and informed upon this subject.' Certainly none. There is an exceeding fitness and propriety in their being instructed upon these vital points i by this means, and this only, can the causes of physical evil be mitigated and removed. Shall we look at this subject a moment, in the light of analogy, comparing it with another important, although not equally important interest ? Ours is a republican form of gov- ernment; the people are the sovereigns, and the source of all power, to whom all delegated power is reflected back Rulers and officers are not made because of the propriety of the thing in nature, or on account of an inherent right in them to rule, but as a matter of expediency and necessity, growing out of the nature of the case. In this view, then, the rulers and officers are only the servants, not the masters of the people. Suppose, now (to represent a parallel to the case of the pout- ing doctor), that the members of the national government, from the President down to the lowest official, should rise in oppo- sition to the instruction of the people, in matters of a govern- mental nature, or general politics, and should say, " that was not the province of the people, that it belonged to them to con- cert plans and make laws," asserting " that to improve, or confer with the people upon these subjects, only engendered confusion, and made them troublesome and litigious, while, at the same time, these officers are entirely dependent upon the people, and made necessary only by their wants. Such a position would not, for a moment, be admitted. Such a sur- render of inalienable rights no people would make. Whatever affects their vital interests, directly or indirectly, it is their pro- vince to examine. The analogy between the civil and medical INTRODUCTION. 11 profession is perfect, so far as the interests of the people are concerned; their wants and woes affording the reason and necessity for both. Who, then, rather than the people, should be entrusted with these matters ? Who are they for whom the medical profession is established ? Who take the calomel, the pills, the emetics, and feel their good or bad effects, but the people ? Who but they endure the severing and hewing of the knife ? Who run the hazard of correct or incorrect practice.' Who but the people support the profession, whether wise or foolish, righteous or wicked ? Since, then, the people are the very ones who alone are directly interested in the practical results of the profession, is it not desirable that some general knowledge of the science should be given them, whereby they may be able to judge who is competent and who is not, or, at least, to judge who are within the proper limits and who not, and thus avoid the necessity of going from one to another to test their qualifica- tions by actual experiment ? Whoever takes this latter course, generally does it at his cost, or, at least, brings about'' a galloping consumption of his bank notes." In reference to the effect upon the profession, of making the people well informed and intelli- gent, we remark, that it cannot operate to the disadvantage of any but quacks, who depend upon the credulity of the people, and not upon their intelligence or their own personal merits. The less the people read or know, the better for them, as such are only moved by caprice or fortuitous circumstances. But to the worthy portion of the faculty, much is gained by spreadmg information upon human physiology, and rendering the com- munity well-informed in this particular. When intelligent, ihs people know when they are properly treated, and have some correct i^ea when the management is rational, or at all within the bounds of common sense. The physician can then proceed in his course, and meet no hand to resist him as he holds the knife or deals out some apparently deadly drug. On the contrary, intelligence makes the sufferer patient, con- fiding, in the hour of ill success or misfortune ; and while dis- ease or death smites them on the one hand, they hold up the drooping head of their medical friend, who in such cases is more to be pitied than blamed. With this view of the subject, surely there can be no valid objection to correct information of a practical character being laid before the people, in a manner adapted to their capacities. Again, this knowledge, when appreciated and obtained, gives them the ability of evading disease and pain to a great extent. It will not be my object, in the publication of this work, to make physicians of everybody, or to intimate that eveiybody could or should be a self-constituted physician. 12 INTRODUCTION. Neither do I mean to insinuate that there is no necessity for, or efficiency in, the profession, or to at all detract from its mem- bers in any desirable quality ; but simply design to effect the following objects, viz.: First, To lay before the medical profession my views on the subject of anatomy, more especially in its combined relations. This I do without any design to dictate or egotize, but simply to express my sentiments, submitting them to their candid examination and improvement, inviting their impartial but merciful criticism. This I feel both free and bound to do, as, should the ensuing views be found correct, and be judged practical by the profession, then an era of a desirable character in the treatment of some fatal and most chronic complaints will soon come, presenting, as these views do, these unmanageable diseases before the profession in a new and more hopeful light. And in thus venturing to present these peculiar views to the profession and the world, we have special encourage- ment from the fact, that already they have been partially offered to the most learned and ingenious of the profession, and some of the most intelligent members of the community, and received their most hearty and cordial approbation. A.nother object that I have in view, is, to elicit, either by the truth or error of my positions, a more extensive and accurate investigation of the subjects herein treated, more especially those relating to the design in, and effects of, the existing rela- tions of the material composition and construction of man, endeavoring, as I shall, to show that the moving cause of dis- ease lies in his material part, and that it is to be remedied by attention to his mechanical relations, and not by speculations on his vital part. Again, my object in addressing the popular mind on this (supposed to be) abstruse subject, is to impress the community with the dignity and importance of the science of human physiology, and to show that it is the duty of every person to investigate the formation, laws and operations of his frame, and, also, that the subject is entirely within the comprehension of every industrious, ordinary understanding. In effecting this laudable purpose, we shall not pretend to lay before them the anatomy of the human body in all its bearings and relations, or enter into the considerations of all the discovered or supposed laws of physiology as developed in the involuntary functions, effected and superintended by the nerves of organic life, but bring to view so much of the construction and philosophical arrangement of the human system, as will enable the reader to understand some of the fundamental laws of life. In doing this, it is my desire, by addressing their common sense only, to show them how healthy functions are produced and per- petuated, and that, in their own bodies, they have the most INTRODUCTION. 13 efficient preventatives of disease, and preservers of health; and also, that when these laws are once invaded by disease in their systems, the plan herein specified, in connection with implicit obedience to common sense and revelation, is the simplest, and most harmless, and efficient curative agent in nature or art: finally, that in these operations there is no mystery, but that all is produced by common causes, or the natural action of matter upon matter. But let it here be distinctly remembered, that while I attempt to demonstrate the material part of man to be in fault, in the foundation or perpetuity of diseases, I only desire to establish this fact, as a fact. I do not desire to overthrow other positions, relating to the nature and cause of diseases, that have been made manifest by experience. I only desire to establish the fact, as a principle, which is to stand in its place, just as do other facts and principles, to be applied aud used as the judg- ment of the practitioner or the nature of the case may demand. The ultimate object and desire of the medical profession has been, and now is, to provide for the human race an antidote to, and remedy for, all the variety of forms, and intensity of woes, with which disease afflicts the mortal body. But, laudable and desirable as is the attainment of this object, it is to be acknow- ledged that it has come far short of its attainment. Yes; the many badges of mourning for the untimely loss of friends, the decrepit forms, the protracted agonies and groans of languish- ing mortality, all testify that the prowess of our profession is cir- cumscribed indeed. But, circumscribed as it is, and glaring as is the fact, it is equally true, that, by aiming at the whole, and by combined and united energy and perseverance, the profession has been of incalculable benefit in the amelioration, if not the cure and prevention, of nearly all the woes incident to human life, in the form of disease. Many, by its wisdom, are taught to shun and to counteract the predisposing causes to disease ; by it, many would-be fatal diseases are arrested, checked, or finally deprived of their victim; and many that have hitherto been incurable, have been mitigated. Still there is a class of diseases that march on in scornful triumph, bearing their victims steadily and boldly on, amidst the ranks of demurring friends, in spite of all the glittering implements of the surgeon, and the less frightful, but not less potent drugs of the apothecary. Yes, in this our day, there are diseases, so fatal and sure in their course, that we have little to do, but to be certain of their actual establishment in ourselves or friends, and prepare for the world where no dis- ease can come. A natural inquiry will here present itself, like this:—And is there no hope, no prospect of triumph over the worst of dis- eases, in time ? We answer, that in view of the ill success 2 14 INTRODUCTION. of the efforts of the profession in some of the diseases, there seems to be but little hope; but, in another point of view there is one ray of hope to cheer the physician, and the heirs of disease, viz., this; the rapid march of improvement in sci- ence for a few of the past years, and the final triumph over many diseases that were once considered as fatal. Once the various forms of Scrofula were considered as positively incura- bly, as a constitutional disease; but now it is not so. Once diseases of the Liver, and many others, were viewed in the same light, but they may be now approached with complacent confidence. Upon the strength of these facts, we have a right to hope, upon every principle of philosophy (reasoning a priori) and we do verily believe, that, before time closes, there will have been found an antidote and a remedy for every disease; and that if the whole human race would live in consonance with the laws of life and of revelation, every son and daughter of Adam might live out all their appointed days, or " come to the grave, like a shock of corn that is fully ripe and laden with plenty." But we ask, from what quarter is this relief to come ? has not the ingenuity and imagination of the whole world been racked, in speculation on the vital principle, to find out a ra- tional hypothesis of the action of consumption; and have there not from thence sprung as many theories of its cause and na- ture, as there are ambitious men in the profession ? Further- more, has not the whole material world, from the mineral to the animal kingdom, been ransacked, to find remedies for this and other fatal diseases ? Yes; and with wild frenzy have they been applied, often till the last vital spark was smothered. Then since every speculation on the vital principle has failed in the elucidation of the nature of our fatal diseases of the trunk, and seeing that every variety of treatment, as applied internally, to act only through the vital principle, or on the excitability of the fibre through the vital principle, has com- pletely failed, what shall we say ? Is not the prospect of suc- cess on the old doctrines a gloomy one ? But has every source been fathomed ? We say, no ; trans- porting experience has lighted up a hope of better days, to some extent. This hope is found on turning from the vital principle of man (as being the seat of these diseases), to his material part, and viewing it in its formation and arrangement, as being primarily concerned in the derangements of the vital function: and you will plainly see, that we believe that most of the diseases of the vital functions are but the effects of some mechanical or chemical derangement. Much time and talent has been expended upon the phy- siology of the human system; and whatever dignity may be attached to the profession, or efficacy ascribable to it, is refera- ble to the success of physiological research. But many of the INTRODUCTION. 13 discoveries in this science have been plants ~A slow growth, and of modern development. We will here remark, that it is singularly true, that progress in science has uot brought to light auy new or great mysteries to astonish the wondering and admiring eye, or to perplex the inquirer w th the increasing complexity and number of the laws that control the human system in health and disease ; but it has tended to sweep away the mists of complex theories and hypotheses, and to the unfolding of the mysteries and laws of the human economy,—showing that they are few in num- ber, and that they consist in simplicity of principle and function. Furthermore, as the healing art progresses, it tends to reduce the science of life and disease to those general and tangible laws and principles that preside over and govern the universal action of matter. Thus, the false dignity of the profession is being swept away. Yes, we say that new discoveries tend to sweep away the false dignity of the profession, and make the healing art beautiful, seeing that while the phenomena of life are so complicated, the laws that govern them are few and simple, and easy to be comprehended by every common understanding. Once the human system was looked upon as a mere moving mystery, without any rational comprehension of its structure and functions. Once the muscular system, by which all the movements of the body are propelled and made regular and efficient, was not at all understood. Once the circulation of the blood, by which the system is perpetuated and nourished, was not dreamed of; the best and wisest of the faculty sup- posed that blood flowed through the system, like water through a sponge. The function of assimilation, by which the food is turned to blood and flesh, was not conceived of: and many other matters like the above were chaotic, but now are per- ceived by every common understanding, and explained by the general action of matter on matter. Again, as the human economy is more perfectly understood, the more does it resemble a machine of great complexity and perfection; and. like a machine, is governed and propelled by the combined mechanical powers and philosophical laws that control all arrangements, and give order to their operations; thus reducing the science of life and disease to those great and tangible principles that are understood by every one ; making the human economy to appear sublime, as well as wonderful, and giving us rational cause to exclaim with the Psalmist, " For we are fearfully and wonderfully made." While holding up this analogy between animate and inanimate machines, we will speak of some of the characteristics of each: viz.—The one is made by finite hands, propelled and perpetuated by second and promiscuous causes; whereas the other is made 16 INTRODUCTION. by the Eternal hand, in infinite wisdom, and is propelled and preserved by an unseen power, acting in an unseen and nitherto mysterious manner, and that without cessation until life is These crude ideas will be our apology for and introduction to the ensuing notions on the physiology of the human system, and the pathology of many chronic and formidable diseases, together with a proposed plan of prevention and cure. Much as we admire the research of Magendie, Richerand, Chapman, and others, and value and acknowledge the accuracy of their conclusions, we have not felt satisfied that all was known that might be : and while we could offer no improve- ment to their views of organic life, as exemplified in the functions of assimilation, secretion, absorption, the heart's action, &c, we are emboldened to inquire a little further for a satisfying pathology of Consumption, Dyspepsy, Prolapsus, and other dis- eases, and see if they do not originate in the morbid relative bearings of the machine; and thereby render those opprobrious complaints more manageable, in some cases at least. We believe that a common cause of the chronic complaints of the human trunk may be found in the mechanical arrangement, and is to be treated on natural principles, or rather, by restoring the parts to their natural bearings; believing them to be only symptomatic. Our inquiry is based upon the following positions, viz.: When we look into the general principles of natural philoso- phy, or the general action of matter, and take into consideration the mechanical powers that govern and propel all machinery, and see how natural their action is, and compare them with the anatomy of the human body, its functions, and the position of its parts, we are led to conclude that there is a striking analogy between them, in action, and in propelling power. We see that, in machinery, it is the due and primitive relation of parts, and the action of matter and power upon this relation, that secures the specific action of the machine. Just so, we infer, in the human system (so far as matter and mechanical arrange- ment are concerned), that a certain relative position of organs is designed and only one relative position, and that that arrangement is mechanical, and under the ordinary mechanical laws. We also see, that when there are derangements in the opera- tions of machinery, they are remedied by a direct reference to the mechanical derangement, whether of shape or malposi- tion ; without any reference to any inherent property, or change in the composition of the material. So we infer in the human system, so far as matter and mechanical arrangement are con- cerned. For instance, if one organ change its place, it breaks the primitive and reciprocal arrangement, the mechanical rela- INTRODUCTION. 17 tion will be lost, and there will be vital embargo, from a med anical cause. And why may this not be reasonably in- ferred of the soft parts, since this law prevails in the hard ? If there is the least departure from the primitive arrangement in the bones, there is immediate pain, and loss of function. Furthermore, the malady is always remedied by mechanical force, placing the parts in their primitive relation. Let us now illustrate and confirm this idea, by referring to the mechanical arrangements of two nicely adjusted instru- ments—the lever watch and the locomotive—considering par- ticularly the operation of the machinery with reference to the design of the machine. The watch is a complicated and beautiful arrangement of many parts ; its very appearance and regularity exhibit design, and show that some specific function is expected to be per- formed by it. The ultimatum of this design is to secure a correct index of time. Now, the two extreme points in the machine are the main-spring and the hair-spring. The main- spring is so situated and arranged in its connection with, and action on, the adjoining parts, that it is obviously the motive power, or source of moti'on in the watch. The effect of the forcing elasticity of the spring is felt by each successive wheel, until it reaches the hair-spring, and balance-wheel, causing a specific motion. Now it is perfectly clear, that this specific action is the direct result of the specific mechanism, and relation of all the parts, individually and collectively. It is also obvious, that if any one of the smallest parts of the watch changes its relation, the primary design of the instrument will fail of accomplishment, and its function be entirely destroyed or modified. For instance, suppose that while the main-spring is good and active, the hair-spring should become entangled and cease to play ; of course the watch stops, yet the movimg power is not at fault, but one part of the well adjusted whole has failed to discharge its reciprocal office, and the whole is deranged. Again, in the case of a locomotive, we see that there is a specific design in view in its whole complex arrangement, which is only attained by the complete development and per- fect action of all the parts of this extensive machine, and is in- dependent of the composition of, or any inherent agency in, the material of which it is constructed. Yet, perfect as it is, of itself it can do nothing. The steam must be added. The large crank, moving as it does all the rest of the machuiery, is now set in motion, and the design of the machine fully accomplished. There are several points to be considered in this phenomenon :—viz., neither the locomo- tive, nor the steam, nor the composition or inherent properties of the locomotive, constitute the operatives; but it is the mat- 2* 18 INTRODUCTION. ter, the arrangement of this matter, and the steam applied to this arrangement, that constitutes the operative characteristics of the machine, and all must be under the direction of the intelli- gence of the engineer. Now let us suppose that there is a very slight disarrange- ment in the mutual and original bearings of this philosophical mechanism; then, of course, there will be an interruption 01 modification of the movements of the combination, and these interruptions and modifications must be remedied. How will the engineer effect this ? Will he suppose that something is wantiug in the inherent properties of the material, or will he conclude that there is a deficiency of steam, or that it is of a vitiated character, thereby producing vitiated mechanical movements ; and in this view of the subject medicate it, and add to its power by fuel ? Most certainly not; but he will at once dismount from the car, a,nd look through the mechanism to see if it is still perfect, and if not, to find wherein the imper- fection consists, and how it may be remedied. This once done, the steam, properly applied to the mechanical arrange- ment, instantly propels the locomotive onward. These common-place remarks upon machinery and its func- tions, can be easily understood and appreciated by all. Now let us turn to the human mechanism, composed as it is of mat- ter, mechanically and philosophically arranged, and also con- taining in itself its own propelling and self-directing power, and see if some interesting and useful inferences may not be drawn from the above remarks. Let us look for a moment to the creation of man. He seems to have been, at first, formed or made by the divine hand, as other parts of creation. In this state of being he was a perfect composition of human matter aud parts, or, at least, it appears so from the language of Holy- Writ,—" And the Lord God formed man." The work, so far as the mechanism is concerned, although still inanimate matter, seems thus to be entirely finished, and whatever else might afterwards be added, no addition could be made to his mate- rial fabric, but must have been an appendage, a property, or a function, not a part of the human machine in the abstract. In this view of the subject, then, Adam was emphatically a man, at the time when he was said to be made, before the breath of life was breathed into him. At this point in the com- parison, man is like the watch with the main-spring confined, or the locomotive before the steam is applied—the composition right, the arrangement perfect, and the design in the mechanical and philosophical arrangement clearly perceptible and attain- able—all that is lacking is the power to " will and to do." When that power is once given, without adding anything to the perfection of the machinery, it sets it all in beautiful and harmonious action. Hence it appears that healthy and proper INTRODUCTION. 19 action is produced by, and depends upon, the matter and mechanism, and not upon the moving power, and that when their operations are deranged, the disturbing cause must be there sought and remedied. If this train of analogical reason- ing is correct, then it will follow that the vital principle of animate or animal matter is not a part of the animal creation, but an appendage only as an operative agent—that it is not a thing, but a principle, like other known but intangible principles in the natural world, such, for instance, as gravitation, &c. It will also be seen in morbid human or animal phenomena, that the vital principle will not be in fault, on account of a weakly state, or morbid action of itself, any more than a perfect main- spring is at fault when the watch runs irregularly, because the wheels are disarranged; or the steam at fault when the ma- chinery is disturbed. We see, also, that the operative parts and the propelling power are entirely distinct, the specific action and character of the latter being determined by the well defined laws of the former, and its integrity depending upon their har- monious action. Another point of analogy between the locomotive and the human mechanism, is seen in the fact that the propelling power, or vital principle, cannot deteriorate or become sick, as it is an eternal principle, unchangeable and indestructible in its nature. Could it become sick, or be weakened, then it must die. If this is a correct conclusion, the cause and direct origin of disease is in the mechanical or material part, and not in the vital or immaterial part. Of course, then, in our practical in- vestigations of diseases and remedial applications, we must have reference to the physical or tangible part only. It is not the steam, but the disturbed or broken engine that is at fault. The last point of analogy upon which we now insist, is that there is, as in a perfect machine, one specific position of organs and parts, and one only, constituting a perfect and healthy man, and that any other position or relation will proportionally dis- arrange the whole fabric and its functions. With these remarks, we proceed to say that there are two distinct physiologies, the vital and the mechanical, each having a distinct dominion, and both combined producing a compound of mechanical and vital phenomena. Upon vital physiology we need say but little, as it has already received, from minds of high order,'all the attention it merits. We will only observe on this point, that vital physiology relates to the vital and involuntary organic functions, as in the case of the heart's perpetual action, the offices of the liver, the function of assimilation, &c. But of mechanical physiology we intend to speak more at large. Indeed we expect to make it the foundation and theme of our subsequent remarks, as in its province are most of the tangible and perceptible functions oi 20 INTRODUCTION. life_functions susceptible of investigation, and of improve- ment or depreciation. This branch of physiology seems to be, in a great measure, independent of the vital. It relates to the physical and cor- poreal arrangement of man, and the natural and noted results of this combination, independent of the vital principle, or any inherent properties in the composition of the material. If our remarks have been correctly understood thus far, we may feel a confidence that the reader will pardon us for intimat- ing, that physiological research has been too much confined to the investigation of the vital principle, in a therapeutical point of view, and not sufficiently to the material and mechani- cal part of man. As the vital principle is immaterial, and can only be known by its phenomena, not being an object of sight, taste, feeling, or smell, it is folly to spend our good sense and precious time in speculations upon it, with practical reference to the patho- logy and the treatment of disease. Another fault in physiological investigation (as we conceive it), has been that the contents of each of the truncal cavities have been examined in their local and isolated condition and relation, just as a merchant would examine three boxes of merchandise—first one, then the other, without any sufficient reflection upon their relation to each other, or upon their indi- vidual relation to the whole as a material mass, governed by the laws that preside over all matters and mechanism, in all circumstances and situations. It is our most decided opinion that there can be no adequate and proper knowledge of either one or all of the truncal organs obtained by an isolated examination of them severally, owing to their connections and relations with other portions of the body; but that they must be viewed together, as forming one complicated but regular machine, developing both mechanical and vital phenomena, the latter entirely dependent upon the correct action of the fonner. For instance, in all of the func- tions and phenomena, healthy and diseased, the pectoral con- tents cannot be understood without an extended knowledge of the mechanical arrangement and anafomy of the contents of the abdomen and pelvis. For, as there is one place, and one ouly, for each organ, and all collectively, then if a change takes place in one or all of the organs of the abdomen or pel- vis, there must be a corresponding change in the mechanical relations of the pectoral organs, offering, perhaps, a material obstruction to the healthy vital phenomena. From this view of the subject, it will appear obvious that there may be a mechanical class of disease, that must be treated, in part at least, mechanically, and that is, not primarily under the cognizance of medicine. INTRODUCTION. 21 If it be true, then, that in physiological investigations these extended and combined relations are overlooked, what will be the natural tendency of the error ? We reply, that this evil will be most evident in a pathologi- cal point of view, and that the true pathology of one class of diseases will be entirely overlooked. We will be prone to mistake effects for causes, and symptoms only for diseases—to look for the seat of the disease at or near the locality of the pain or morbid development: whereas it will only be the effect that we see and treat, while the primary cause is very remote, and so trifling that it eludes our research. Thus we will be treating symptoms and not diseases, effects and not causes, and leave the patient too often uncured, and to die from the progression of the symptoms and effects to independent diseases, when, in the simplest manner, the cause might have been removed. Such is the case in many diseases, as Hysteria, Hypochon- dria, Dyspepsy and Prolapsus, all of which only sport with the puerile efforts of internal remedies, and go on to lay the foun- dation of fatal diseases, while they tear up the roots of indivi- dual and domestic happiness. With a view to draw a line of distinction between diseases requiring constitutional treatment, and those requiring mechani- cal, and to reduce to simplicity of origin, nature and treatment, a formidable class of diseases, that hitherto has but too suc- cessfully combated the prowess of the medical profession, we propose to attempt an examination of the mechanical arrangement of the human trunk—having no reference to the vital functions of the trunk, or its organs, except as the result of either a natural or unnatural relation of the mechanical parts. In doing this, if we mistake not, we shall find a clue to pulmonary and other fatal complaints, that may lead us to more rational treatment, so far as medical treatment is of any service. In conducting this investigation, we will seek to be guided by the light of reason and common sense, just as we would set about inquiring into the mechanism, design, philosophy and operations of any extensive, complicated, interesting and beautiful machine. We, therefore, beg our readers to lay aside high notions, and descend to the simplicity of truth—setting down as truth in the living human system, what would be truth in inanimate matter under similar circumstances; for the living characteristics of the human fibres do not render nuga- tory or alter the laws of their mechanical combinations. With reference to each organ, or set of organs, in either or all the truncal cavities, our opinion is, that a just apprehension of them cannot be formed by an isolated view of either or all of them, in their vital or physical properties. We believe, in 22 INTRODUCTION. order to understand anything of the physiology of the trunk and its organs as it should be, they must be viewed in combi- nation-^ a whole. For, in view of what has been already stated, it will be distinctly borne in mind, that al the organs have two different functions to attend to—the vital or specific, and the mechanical or physical; and that upon the perfect arrangement of the latter depends the proper performance of the former, although the former are alone directly concerned in the production of the vital human phenomena. Thus it seems that these two sets of functions are at once independent of, and at the same dependent upon each other. For the mechanical arrangement and relations existed before, and independent of the vital; but without the vital action con- nected with it, the specific object and design of the arrange- ment will be lost—thus we see both the dependence and inde- pendence of mechanical physiology. Again we see that the vital physiology, or living character- istics of the organs and fibres of the organs composing the mechanism, is wholly independent as to its existence and peculiar properties; but that it is perfectly dependent upon the perfection of the mechanical arrangement, for the full develop- ment of its specific and sublime phenomena. And on summing up the whole, we see the superior inde- pendence of the mechanical functions and their comparative importance, as, without their harmonious adjustment, the most powerful principle could be of no avail. Our views in the premises now being so fairly stated, that neither the medical profession, nor yet the popular reader, can understand us to mean too much or not enough, we proceed, in the subsequent part of the work, to examine the mechanical physiology, or the mechanism of the trunk, for the purpose of reducing to simplicity the origin, perpetuity and cure of a for- midable group of diseases, hitherto the bane of domestic hap- piness and the opprobrium of the physician. As we do not wish to add to, or diminish from, the views of physiologists on the vital phenomena, we shall not notice them directly: there- fore not forgetting the vital part, we shall confine our remarks to the mechanical relations, in their individual and combined influence, thereby rendering the vital phenomena rational. COMMON SENSE. 23 CHAPTER I. THE TRUNK—THE SPINE--THE RIBS. I. We propose first to take a view of the normal or healthy arrangement of the trunk—ascertain what the relation is, and, also, what supports and preserves this relation. II. To take a view of the same trunk in a morbid or diseased state, (i. e.) when the power that retains it in the true position ceases to perform its wonted function. III. To take a pathological view of the system while in this mechanically deranged state, and apply it to diseased pheno- mena. IV. To draw from such views practical and curative sugges- tions. And before we proceed to develope our views, for fear that we shall happen to be misunderstood by any one, we again distinctly state, that if we do succeed in fully establishing our positions as to the mechanical cause and perpetuity of many diseases, we do not intend that it should follow, that these dis- eases must always be the result of these causes, and that there- fore they will always require mechanical treatment; we only wish to establish the principle in the abstract, as a fact, and, as such, worthy of general attention, and subject to the judg- ment of the suffering patient, and of his medical adviser. The Trunk.—We now proceed to examine the trunk as a machine, viewing its organs individually and in combination, so far only as affects the object that we have in view. I. We look first at the mechanical arrangement of the trunk, in its bearings and relations, particularly observing the power that preserves this relatym entire. II. We view it as thrown into an unnatural state or set of relations. III. We inquire, in the light of common sense, what would be the mechanical and vital influence upon the organs and their functions, and then offer such practical remarks as may be proper in reference to the treatment of such morbid cases. We notice, first, that the trunk has a hard and solid tissue for its support and symmetry. These hard parts consist of the spine, breast-bone and ribs. Of these, our prescribed plan will allow us to say but little—just enough to accomplish the pur- pose intended—leaving much that is important and interesting in a physiological point of view unnoticed. 24 COMMON SENSE. The Spine.-^The spine, or back-bone, consists of numerous bones of similar configuration, constituting a perpendicular pile of bone, with gentle curves along its course. Between them is a substance like gristle, called cartilage, having much the same quality as India rubber. These bones are firmly (comparatively speaking) bound together by thin, strong, and inelastic tissues, called ligaments, (i. e.) they have but a nominal elasticity. The functions of these ligaments seem to be confined to a limited extent. First, they seem to keep the bones in proper contact, and a proper place relatively. Secondly, they serve, by their great firmness and inelasticity, to preserve or assist in preserv- ing this long, perpendicular pile of bones in a proper perpen- dicularity, while carrying the burden of the whole trunk, and other burdens commonly or accidentally borne, in the common or casual circumstances of life. But when we consider the thinness of these bones, their number, and the length of the pile, together with the weight of the pile, and the casualties to which it is subjected, and at the same time recollect that the small of the back is to be the base or pivot of power on which all weight and motion acts as on a fulcrum, we see that there is nothing, in either or both the formation or attachments of these bones, that can effectual- ly secure their relative position and undisturbed functions, although it is evident they may do much towards effecting this important purpose. But when we view the spine (i. e. take a side view), we see ample means for tne support of the trunk. This supporting power lies in one of the commonest laws of philosophy, viz., gravitation. We see that the spine is so curved, that the small of the back is the centre of the body's gravity. Where there is the most stress laid upon this support, there it bends forward, into the abdomen, as it were ; then it inclines back like an inclined plane, until it arrives at the prominence of the shoulders, making room for the lungs and heart. Thus the weight of the upper portion of the trunk is throwm behind the axis, while the abdomen is thrown in front of it. We find the head, when properly erect, situated just about in the axis, rather throwing its weight behind it. Thus, by the nice balancing indicated in the healthy trunk (See Fig. 10), the average of the body's Aveight is taken off from the connecting back-bones. Here we leave the consideration of the form of the spine, until it is again called up in our patho- logical investigations, with a single remark. It should be borne in mind that in the healthy trunk, the lumbar region, or small of the back, should be quite hollow, and the shoulders, or dorsal region, have quite a prominence behind, so as to counterpoise the gravitating influence of the abdomen in front of the spine; COMMON SENSE. 25 and, also, that the head should be so curved (as a general rule), as ;o bring the law of gravitation to the aid of the trunk, in preserving the body in its proper and quiet position. The spine forms a firm band of union to the rear extremities of the ribs, and is the base of the chest. The chest may be said to consist of the spine, breast-bone or sternum, and the ribs. The sternum is a flat bone, situated at the front of the chest, serving as a firm bond of union to the true or long ribs, and to strengthen the arch of the chest. The Ribs.—The ribs are long curved bones, needing no ex- tended description, as their general form is so well known. They are much curved, the curvature being both downward and outward. All the true or long ribs are firmly fastened by cartilage to the spine and sternum, and therefore not capable of motion, excepting a slight twisting at the extremities; con- sequently what motion they enjoy, must be formed in the curve at their middle, in its elevation and depression. Another peculiarity of the ribs is, that their rear extremity is much higher than their front, so that when we look in front of the chest, directly across it, the sight will cross several of the ribs, as they run obliquely downward and forward. From this arrangement it is perfectly obvious, that the cur- vatures thus adjusted were designed to enlarge the lateral diameter of the chest, when they were elevated by the proper power to do it, and also that the descent of the front extremity of the ribs was intended to facilitate the elevation of the whole chest; thus, in connection with the elevation of the curve of the ribs, very much augmenting the diameter of the chest in case of exigency. The short ribs differ materially from the long or true ribs in several respects, and these differences should, and do, lead to many all-important, physiological, pathological, and therefoie practical considerations. 1. First, we notice that the short ribs are loose at their front extremities, being attached to each other by means of cartilage only, leaving quite a space intervening between their front extremities at the pit of the stomach, or scrobiculus cordis. 2. Secondly, we notice, as a consequence of the peculiarity just mentioned, that these ribs, unlike the others, enjoy great liberty of motion at their front extremities, in consequence of their cartilaginous connection, and of the space in front, allow- ing their front ends, on opposite sides, to separate; while, at the same time, they have all the advantages of other ribs, in point of form and construction. This shows, evidently, that the Creator designed the lower portion of the chest, and that only, to enjoy perfect and exten- sive liberty of motion, of a fan-like character. We also see, that in healthy chests, their inferior region is the 3 26 COMMON SENSE. largest, as a general rule, even while in an unexpanded and quiet state. (See Fig. 1, which is the natural chest, and Fig 2, the unnatural one.) What, then, are the conclusions to be drawn from the pal pable facts ? Let us mention a few. First, whatever changes the proportions of the chest, or in- verts them, whether the cause be natural or inherent, acci- dental, artificial or habitual, inverts the order of nature, and as we shall show in the course of the subsequent remarks, places a mechanical encumbrance on the mechanical and vital func- tions of the delicate organs within; and such a person can only be looked upon as unfortunate, and as one more to be pitied than to be envied. When the cause is artificial or habit- ual, such a person should be considered as lacking in common sense, moral principle, and good taste ; that is, when the per- son is clearly informed upon these points. Secondly, we remark, that whatever confines the natural liberties of this part of the chest, is a manifest infringement upon the most obvious law of this cavity, and compels other portions of the chest to perform undue exercise, and that, after all, to the depreciation of the function that stands at the head 1 all functions. The evident consequence of this is, that by degrees, the laws of life gradually give way, and disease of a vital and fatal character will ensue, without remedy. In what light, then, do the fair portion of creation appear, who, under the influence of a depraved taste, draw around themselves the suicidal cords that are depopulating the world by millions, or filling it with worthless wives and mothers, securing to society a puny, sickly, short-lived posterity. But we leave this point here, to resume it again, in the spirit of meekness, and yet with the most decided condemnation CHAPTER II. SOFT PARTS—THE INTERCOSTAL MUSCLES—THE DIAPHRAGM. The Soft Parts.—We have now seen the mechanism of the chest, and what the combination would, individually aud collect- ively, admit of being done, were the appropriate power applied to effect it. But we also see, that it (like other machines, with- out a power not inherent in their composition) can do nothing COMMON SENSE. 27 towards carrying outits specific design, because it lacks both the power to will and to do: (i. e.) it is passive in all its functions. We see, consequently, the necessity of attaching a moving power to this apparatus that shall act specifically and philoso- phically with reference to the designed motions of the combina- tion, as indicated in its construction. We therefore proceed to examine the soft parts attached to the hard ones, in their active bearings (through their vital agency), and we shall soon dis- cover a perfectly philosophical machine, that has complicated but definite functions to perform, all performed in concert, under the simple influence of those principles that predominate and govern the natural and universal actions of all matter. As in the hard parts, we shall proceed no further in the ex- amination of these parts, than is necessary for the elucidation of our subject, leaving much unsaid and untouched which is important and full of interest. The Intercostal Muscles.—These organs occupy the space between the ribs. There are two sets of them, an inner and an outer set. They run only from rib to rib, and, of course, each muscle can only act from rib to rib. These muscles pass, from their origin to their destination, by running in an oblique direc- tion, the two sets crossing each other. They constitute that portion of the flesh which we eat of a spare rib of an animal, which in some cases is spare enough to be sure. Let us now seek the specific action of these muscles, and how they accomplish this action. These muscles are firmly attached by both their extremities to the ribs, the lower extremity to the upper edge of a rib, and the upper to the lower edge of an upper rib ; all the active power they have is contraction, or a shortening of their dimensions ; this power they obtain from the influence of the nerves that pre- side over those functions, and are not exclusively under the con- trol of the will. But in their contraction or shortening, what will be the exact effect on the ribs to which they are attached ? The curvature of the ribs is downward; of course, then, the de- pressed state of this curve is its natural and quiet position, and the only motion left for the ribs is the elevation of this curve. in this case, as the movement of the rib is upward, each upper rib will be the pivot or fulcrum, or fixed point drawing towards itself the next lower rib ; and if the upper rib be the fulcrum at any time, it must be at all times, as the lower ribs are com- paratively loose, being fastened only at their rear extremities, while the upper ones are fastened at both. We are now upon argumentative ground, and shall be for some time. We leave this point here, to call it up again, in the sub- sequent remarks, as the case may require. The Diaphragm—This organ is the dividing medium between the contents of the chest and of the abdomen. 28 COMMON SENSE. It consists principally of fleshy or muscular tissue, its fibres running in different directions. While we proceed to describe the diaphragm, and remark upon its construction and arrange- ment, let the reader give undivided attention, and draw such inferences (not expressed by us) as grow out of the exposi- tion. Very much of the practical part of the subsequent treatise, depends upon a correct understanding of this organ and its functions. The diaphragm arises from the lower edge of the short ribs. Let it be noticed here, that the origin of this muscle, at this place, is from a low and fixed point, and that, of course, this point will be the fixed point of action, tending to draw, more or less, the fibres of itself towards that point. This muscle runs from right and left, upward and inward, as high as the pit oi the stomach, where the two sides meet like the two walls of a tent, and blend their fibres in mutual arrangement. The interior or upper extremity of this organ is attached to the breast-bone, the posterior to the back, and the intermediate portion, of course, will be stretched across the chest, without a fixed point, excepting to a thin partition which runs down the centre of the chest, separating between the right and left lobes of the lungs. This membrane is attached or soldered, as it were, to the central portion of the diaphragm, where the two upper edges meet. Thus we see that all that tends to sustain the diaphragm from central depression, is this mechanism or membrane above described; it is also obvious that this organ was not designed by the divine Architect to be put upon the stretch with impunity ; and it also appears clear, that the great design of this delicate and irritable tissue was to be a dividing medium between the right and left portions of the chest. Another peculiarity of great importance, in a physiological and pathological point of view is, that the two hemispheres of the diaphragm are very convex above, and concave below. Indeed the lateral inclination or convexity of this organ is well represented by the two hemispheres of an excavated pumpkin —their upper edges approximated, and their lower edges sepa- rated. In that case, the right and left central portions of the dia- phragm, (i. e) the centre of their surfaces, are higher than either the approximated edges or any other part, being pushed quite high into the chest. This elevated and convex position is its natural position, as is indicated by its being found in this po- sition at the birth of the still-born child, or at the death of the adult, who dies without any organic disease, but by a sudden casualty In all such cases, the diaphragm is always found so much elevated as to support the heart, and afford even a firm pressure to the collapsed lung which has never been expanded. COMMON SENSE. 29 We now finish the description of the diaphragm, by saying that each of its two under sides are segments of a perfect dome, and we insist upon its being remembered that this is the natural position aud relation of the organ, both to itself and the sur- routiding organs, and that no other condition will be natural or healthy, either for its own action or that of the neighboring organs. We now proceed to notice some collateral circumstances, that should be embraced in the above description. It is evideut from the formation, arrangement and organi- zation of the diaphragm, that it is incompetent to sustain itself in this elevated couical form: for we see that it is very thin, supple or flabby, and that it consists of muscular fibres prin- cipally. Of course, in this conical form we can see no way in which this organ can sustain itself in its proper shape. Just as well might a paper dome suspend a mighty weight from its inner surface, without being inverted or destroyed, as for the diaphragm to suspend the abdominal contents, without any auxiliary supporting power. The natural inference that we draw from this is, that the diaphragm was designed to be sup- ported from below, by the abdominal contents, instead of their being supported by, or suspended from it. Let this point be borne in mind as a point of reference in future remarks. Again, the lower edge of the diaphragm being the fixed point, having a bony origin, and its upper angle being but partially attached to an osseous surface, we of course conclude that the direction of the motion of this organ would be towards its lower angle, either from its own contraction or from the motion of the ribs, from the centre to the right and left. Again, as this organ is raised so high in its natural situation, we discover that its surface is very much extended, and that it occupies much more space than is embraced in a straight line from its origin to its termination at the centre of the chest, and that when it is in situ, or its most natural state, the fibres are most stretched, and not shrivelled and relaxed; they are then just sufficiently distended to stimulate them to con- traction, upon the principle of resistance. Let it be remem- bered that the diaphragm is kept in place by other powers than its own, and that it is passive in the matter, and only ac- tive in contracting to the relative or abnormal position. This point is also important to recollect as a primary one in me- chanical or operative physiology. We again remark, that the fibres in this organ do not ruu in direct lines, but rather ;n cir- cular ones, tending to a focus in the centre of the chest, or, to say the least, their direction is compound. But one thing is certain, that the lower fibres will be the fixed point, and mo- nopolize the general direction of motion towards them. In view of these considerations, we are now prepared to 3* 30 COMMON SENSE. conclude philosophically and rationally respecting the specific action and operation of this organ m its active state. What, then, will be the natural and specific movement of the diaphragm, when its fibres contract ? for it is evident that it has no active operation except by contraction. The answer is obvious, viz : that, as the surface of the welt elevated diaphragm is large, and as its fibres have a circular direction, and its lower point is the fixed one, in contraction of its fibres'the whole diaphragm will be depressed, and move towards its fixed point. Or, in other words, the diaphragm, in all of its active functions, descends in its whole surface, and enlarges the perpendicular dimensions of the chest, thus chang- ing the natural relations existing between it and the heart and lungs, to an unnatural one, for the time being. (See Fig. 9, which is the natural Diaphragm.) CHAPTER III. THE CONTENTS OF THE CHEST, AND THEIR MECHANICAL RELATIONS AND INFLUENCES—THE HEART—THE MOVING POWER OF THE HEART—THE LUNGS—EXPLANATION OF THE OBJECT AND TAN- GIBLE PROCESS OF RESPIRATION—INSPIRATION. The Contents of the Chest, and their Mechanical Relations and In- fluences.—We now proceed to consider, cursorily, the contents of the chest, in a mechanical and philosophical light. These or- gans consist of the heart and lungs, which, in health, complete- ly fill the chest at all times, both in the period of inspiration and expiration. This statement needs no argument for its proof, and we would only say, that it is made evident by the fact, that at the birth of all still-born infants, whose lungs were never in- flated, and at the death of all adults, who have died of any sudden casualty, the lungs have always been found completely to fill the chest, being pressed upon by the ribs round about, and by the diaphragm from below, thus showing that it is a law of all animate combinations, to touch mutually and reci- procally ; and to do it in such a manner, that ail cavities shall be filled, or, in other words, that a vacuum, or empty space in the trunk, is incompatible with animal or philosophical laws. Let this law of reciprocal adaptation and support in the trun- cal organs be borne in mind, as a physiological axiom. The Heart.—This organ is large and heavy ; its size and form are so well known that they need not to be described. COMMON SENSE. 31 Iv is the great agent for the circulation of the blood, and is in a state of alternate contraction and relaxation, continued with great regularity while health or life exists. It is situated z. lit- tle to the left of the centre of the chest, between the right and left lobes of the lungs. It is enclosed in a sack, or thin mem- branous bag, which covers it loosely. The lower part of this sack unites with the diaphragm so tightly that the knife can seldom separate them. Leaving the physiology of the heart to a future consideration, we will now attend to an important inquiry, viz., How is the heart kept in place ? and what are its material relations in combination ? First, as to its relations. It is situated in the lower part of »fie medial portion of the chest, with its large flat surface rest- ing on the diaphragm below. It is surrounded by the lungs, which are in close contact, so that the relation between the heart, lungs and diaphragm, is completely mutual. Secondly, as to the power that keeps it permanently in this location, we now remark :—The heart, as we see, is heavy, and suspended in space, and it is natural to inquire what retains it in its relations to itself and all its neighbors. To this question we reply» that it is effected by two powers, acting very dif- ferently. One class of them may be denominated suspen- sory powers; they consist of the heart's ligaments, and the vessels that receive and throw off the blood. Our opinion is, that these act more particularly by keeping the heart steady, than by suspending it. The other power is a supporting one, received from the diaphragm, when permanently raised to its proper height by the abdominal contents, thus allowing the heart to rest considerably upon it, without gravitating so much as to put its suspending powers or appendages upon the stretch. Let this chain of mechanical combinations be critically noticed and borne in mind as we develope it. The Moving Power of the Heart.—Of the power that institutes and perpetuates the heart's specific action, we only remark that, it is derived from a certain class of nerves. The exact mode in which they effect this we know not; but this we do know, that they are exceedingly sensitive and irritable; that the least change in the normal relations excites in them either an undue, diseased, irregular or morbid action, and that the proper function of these nerves cannot be depended upon without the perpetuity of the mechanical physiology. The Lungs.—These important organs fill up the remaining cavity of the chest, so that, in health, there is neither actual nor imaginary vacuum in it. In the infant they are small and heavy. After respiration they become very light, so that the largest healthy lung weighs, I believe, but six or seven ounces. These organs are lobated, and seem almost to have no tissue, and to consist of cells, 32 COMMON SENSE. whose walls are nothing but vanity. They are considered as the grand organs of respiration, but have no muscular tissue, indicating that they have no power to preserve respiration, or the contraction and expansion of themselves. Respecting any primary contractibility in the pulmonary tissue, it is a point not wholly settled; but to our mind it is fully established, that never, in health, is there any primary motion in the lungs (except an inconsiderable elasticity of texture), and that when- ever there is such a thing as spasm, or primary contraction in the tissue, it is because of disease, and not when the organ is duly performing its functions. It is true that, at times, tissues in disease will perform actions foreign to the specific functions, therefore we believe that all the sensible and alternate changes which take place in the dimensions or state of the lungs, no matter however natural they may be, are all produced by the influence of surrounding muscular power and atmospheric pressure. The physical phenomena of the lungs, with refer- ence to respiration, consist in their expansion and contraction, their other functions being under another set of laws. Respiration consists in inspiration and expiration,—i. e., its physical phenomena. We will here give a didactic signifi- cation and description of respiration, and then proceed to in- quire how each branch of this function is effected Explanation of the object and tangible process of Respiration.— The blood, when it leaves the heart, on its left side, is distri- buted throughout the minutest fibres of the human system, by means of vessels adapted to that purpose. This blood leaves the heart in a red, rich and fructifying state, every way calcu- lated to repair the waste of use in the system. It travels on through infinitely small vessels, when, by a law inexplicable to us, the different fibres and organs suck, or select out the required material from the blood, and soon it merges again into another set of vessels, which become more and more visible. The vessels through which the blood is carried to the extreme parts are called arteries, while the vessels that receive again the blood and convey it back to the heart are called veins. There is a great difference between the blood in the veins, or- the returning blood, and that in the arteries; instead of its being red, rich and fructifying, it is black, impoverished, and com- paratively cold. The system has exhausted it of all the whole- some properties, and appropriated them to itself. The chief of these properties are oxygen, which is supposed to be'the stimulating and warming principle, and nutriment, which is the repairing and building up principle. Now, in the circulation, these have been taken awav, and in return the system has deposited a black, deleterious substance, called carbon. And now the blood is travelling back, on its way to obtain a fresh supply of the nutriment and of the oxygen, COMMON SENSE. 33 and to unload itself of the carbon. It ltft the heart from its left side, but returns to a cavity in its right. From thence it is ejected to another receptacle in the same side, and then into certain vessels called pulmonary arteries, by which it is carried to the lungs. Here the carbon is detached and replaced with oxygen: this is accomplished by the infinitely numerous air ves- sels of the lungs, receiving it thus widely distributed, and bring- ing it, by an exceedingly thin tissue, almost in contact with the air. Here by a chemical process, the atmosphere takes up the carbon, and gives, in exchange, the oxygen required. The blood then returns to the left side of the heart, from whence it first started, and is again thrown into the system, fit to minister to its wants. When the blood enters the lungs, or comes up to the cells, they are expanded to their utmost, the little cells being all dilated with atmosphere, so that there is a large surface of the blood presented to the atmosphere. After this the lungs are instantly contracted, and the cells comparatively closed. This opening to admit the air, and shutting to eject it when impure, are called, inspiration and expiration ; i. e., " breath- ing in and breathing out." We have given a general definition and explanation of the object and process of respiration, as divided into inspiration and expiration ; we now proceed to inquire by what mean? or powers these two processes are effected; keeping in mind the fact that the lungs cannot exercise any agency in their own contraction or expansion. Inspiration.—The object of inspiration is to fill the lungs with air. But how shall this be done ? for, when the cells are com- pressed, the lungs entirely fill the cavity of the chest, and the lungs have not the power in themselves to accomplish this. Of course something must be done externally; first to make room for the lungs, and then to expand them with air. We will now inquire how this expansion of the chest is to be effected. We see that the change evidently must take place in the capacity of the chest, and that the lungs cannot produce this change, neither can the bones or ribs of them- selves move, although they are capable of being moved, when a moving power is applied. To the soft parts, or appendages of the chest, we must, then, look for this power. We now turn to the intercostal muscles, to see what may be expected from them. When the child is born, if he stay long, he must necessarily breathe. Accordingly upon birth, agieeably to the law of the animal constitution of the fibres, the intercostal muscles shorten, and of course pull up the curvature of the successive lower ribs. As the result, the ribs of each side diverge and enlarge the chest, in a lateral direction, producing a vacuum between the 34 COMMON SENSE. lungs and ribs. At the time of the contraction of the inter- costal muscles, the diaphragm, by virtue of the same laws, takes upon itself its specific action—its fibres shortening in every direction, and, as we have before shown, draw down its convexity, in the most philosophical and mechanical manner imaginable. By this action the'diaphragm is drawn away from the lungs, and their perpendicular capacity is increased. But co-existent with the very commencement of the enlargement of the chest by the intercostals and diaphragm, the principle of atmospheric pressure begins to act, and to fill up the vacuum as it is formed, passing into the nostrils and mouth, and forcing its way into the closed cells of the lungs, distending them to the utmost of their capacity. The lungs are now supplied with oxygen, and the cells dis- tended with air, so that the blood can pass freely up to the atmosphere for purification This is inspiration in its length and breadth—being, at the same time, a mechanical, chemical and vital action. But the air in the lungs has now become impure, and its exit is demanded, to malte room for a fresh supply, so that expiration has become now as necessary as inspiration was. The lungs must be again contracted to expel the air within them. This the lungs have not power to do of themselves, neither will the air voluntarily leave them. We naturally look for the accomplishment of this to the intercostal muscles, but here wTe can find no aid. Some phy- siologists say, that one set of the intercostals draws up the ribs, enlarges the chest, and facilitates inspiration; and that another set, running in an opposite direction, draws them down- wards. This they infer from the fact of their running in oppo- site directions. Let us examine this matter. We see that both extremities of both sets of muscles arise and are inserted into the same ribs, differing only in this, that they run in differenl directions. It is evident that, in all cases, the successive upper ribs (being curved downward) will be the point of motion, and that the motion, beginning at the upper extremities of the muscles, will extend downwards, until it reaches the next rib, which will be thus drawn up—both sets of muscles drawin<> alike—one as much as the other, but in opposite directions. But it is alleged that, in inspiration, one set only contracts, and thus elevates the ribs; and that, in expiration, the action is reversed, and the other set contracts; the lower ribs beino the fixed point for that set, and drawing down the upper. This we say cannot be, as the contraction of the first set ap- proximates the ribs to some extent by shortening themselves • of course, then, if the other set do not contract actively, they will be contracted passively, and have their dimensions neces- sarily shortened. Now, as all specific action of muscles de- COMMON SENSE. 35 pends upon the shortening of their fibres, of course, these muscles cannot pull down the ribs, as they are already con- tracted. Again, suppose we take India rubber slips of equal length and strength, aud attach them to two bodies (having thorn run across each other) of equal size and strength, but the upper one the most immovable. Although these run in opposite directions, will not one, as much as the other, draw the lower—or loose body—to the fixed one ? While these two are in opposite and oblique lines, the body will be drawm in a direct one. In view of these natural principles and facts, we see, that except we give both the power of pushing and pulling to the muscles, we cannot find any way by which they can pull down the ribs at all. We have been particular on this and some other points, as much depends upon the conclusion we come to here, and as many learned men think to the contrary, and are slow to give up their points, however clear it may appear to others. We now see that if the specific action of the above organsis to pull up the ribs, it cannot, be to draw them down also. We see, also, that we cannot find in either the lungs or intercostals, the power of expiration. There are several large and powerful muscles situated on the back and breast, but it is obvious that their principal use is to strengthen the back, and to give power and efficiency to the movements of the arm, shoulder and head. But when they do operate upon the chest, it is evident that their fixed point is above, and that the tendency of the action is to enlarge the chest, as in sneezing, hallooing, or laborious respiration, as in asthma or extreme fatigue. We are thence driven to the ribs, and here we find some physiologists ascribing great expiratory power to them, as in inspiration they are drawn up to an unnatural position, they will, according to the view of the persons referred to, tend to draw themselves back again to a natural position, and thus effect a compression of the lungs, producing expiration. This is indeed true of the ribs to a greater or less extent, but not to the extent supposed. It is obvious that the elasticity of the ribs is very instrumental in effecting moderate and involuntary respiration, in ordinary life or sleep. But what we are looking for, is the power of expiration in the abstract, (i. e.) the power of coughing, vomiting, hallooing or blowing upon wind instru- ments, and, until we find this, we have not found the object of our search. Now, if this elasticity of the ribs were sufficient to perform these functions, let us see what results would follow. The elasticity of the ribs, or of any other tissue, is inherent and involuntary, not being under the influence of the will; fi. e.) it cannot be either augmented or diminished by the will. 36 COMMON SENSE. Well, then, as it requires very much more force to sneeze halloo, &c, than it does in ordinary respiration, of course, ii this incontrollable elasticity be able to produce it, then we may be compelled to perform some one of these violent expirations continually, as the will cannot diminish this involuntary in- fluence ; and this would be ridiculous. As yet, then, we have found but a very inconsiderable expiratory power. We will here notice one muscle of the chest that does assist in expiration, so far as it can exert any power upon the chest. That is the sterno-costalis muscle. It arises from the inferior extremity of the breast-bone, or sternum, and runs directly up on the inside of the chest to the third and fourth ribs, and is inserted into them. This muscle is small, and runs so close to the ribs that it has little leverage ; but what it has, it exerts in drawing back the front and inferior extremity of the chest. We are still without anything like an adequate expiratory power. We now pass to the most probable remaining cause offhis phenomena—the diaphragm. This organ, by some physiologists, is called a suspensory organ for the abdominal organs, and the great organ itself of expiration. We will here stop, and consider another philosophy of expi- ration, mentioned by some physiologists. They say that the intercostals draw up the ribs and enlarge the chest; that the air then rushes in and expands the lungs, crowding down the diaphragm. Of course, the abdominal organs necessarily distend the abdominal muscles; these react- ing, press back the abdominal organs, and these crowd on the diaphragm, producing expiration. This is true as far as it goes; but as the power of which they speak is the inherent elasticity of the muscles (not under the control of the will), of course it must be viewed in the same light as the elasticity of the ribs, aiding in the production of the same function, viz., moderate involuntary respiration. We now look to the diaphragm in quest of the expulsory power. It is quite a prevalent opinion among some great men, that the diaphragm is the great expiratory agent, and the organ chiefly implicated in vomiting and other morbid and natural move- ments of this class. Let us examine this opinion. The diaphragm is so constructed that a contraction of its fibres will diminish its surface and lower its natural convexity. Now, as the natural function of this organ is to draw itself out of place, and shorten its fibres of course, the more they contract, the lower will it descend- As, then, the diaphragm has no active power but contraction and we see what this contraction has accomplished, how in COMMON SENSE. 37 the name of common sense, can a farther contraction of that organ push it back from nearly a straight line to a curved one, or a conical shape ? Seeing, then, that this muscle has not the power of pulling and pushing, it is plain that it cannot exert an expiratory power of itself. But some say, that inspiration expands the ribs, and puts the diaphragm upon the stretch, so that it contracts and draws inward the ribs. This cannot be, as no muscle can draw itself into a curve or cone. In this view of the subject, we can see no propriety in ascribing any suspensory or expiratory power to the diaphragm. We have now considered all the rational actions of every pectoral tissue, both soft and hard, and we find no power adequate to the function of expiration, and we are compelled to conclude that the chest does not constitute a perfect respira- tory apparatus, lacking especially in power of expiration. Keeping in mind that we have not yet discovered the object of our search viz., the power of expiration, we will turn our attention to another portion of the body, the examination of which may throw some light upon this subject. CHAPTER IV. THE PELVIC ORGANS AND WALLS—THE URINARY BLADDER—THE UTERUS OR WOMB—THE ABDOMINAL CONTENTS AND WALLS--THE VISCERAL LIGAMENTS. The Pelvic Organs and Walls.—Of this cavity little need be said, save that its walls consist entirely of bones which are immovable, and that the cavity is of a very irregular shape. But of the contents of this cavity very much that is interesting and important may be said These consist of the urinary bladder, the rectum, a lowet bowel, and uterus or womb, in the female subject. The Rectum.—The rectum is the lowest extremity of the large bowel, and is contained in the lower cavity of the human trunk, called the pelvis. This organ is large, and bound down to the inner face of the sacrum or rump-bone (following its course), by a slip of the lining membrane of the belly, which dips down into that cavity, and is reflected over that organ, and also by a texture, called cel- lular tissue, which loosely connects it with the surrounding parts. 4 38 COMMON SENSE. The inner membrane of this bowel has a more extensive sur- face than the outer coat, and consequently lies in folds. Of the Urinary Bladder.—-This organ is very thin, and capable of holding from half a pint to a quart of fluid without very great uneasiness. When empty, it lies nearly withm the pelvic cavity; but when full, it rises above the brim of the pelvis to accommodate itself in distension. It is situated in the fron! of this cavity, and is retained in this place principally by cellular tissue, binding it to the under surface of the pubes—a prominent front bone on the extremity of the trunk. Little need be said of the particular form, motion, attachments or functions of these organs, excepting with a reference to the mechanical relations existing between them and the abdominal organs. The Uterus or Womb.—This organ is situated between the rectum and bladder, suspended in space, as it were, near the centre of the pelvis. Capable, as it is, of a very large expan- sion in the impregnated state, it is exceedingly small, being scarcely one inch in thickness, two in width, ai^| two and a half in length, weighing but two or three ounces. A natural inquiry now presents itself—What sustains this organ in place, or what are the supports which this organ enjoys ? We reply that they are five in number. 1. It is sustained pretty firmly by the vagina. The vagina is a curved canal, that communicates from the external world to the uterus. It is very elastic, and in health is contracted upon itself, so that its inner surfaces touch each other. This canal is situated below the womb and supports it. Indeed Dr. Dewees considers it about adequate to sustain that organ, and to be the chief support assigned to it. 2. The next support that we notice is the cellular tissue, which surrounds the organ, intervening between it and the adjoining parts. This constitutes a support to a considerable extent. 3. The next two supports are called the round and broad ligaments. They consist principally of slips, or portions of the peritoneum, or lining membrane of the belly, which dips down into the pelvis, and passes out again, somewhat as we shall describe. The round ligaments arise from the sides of the uterus, and constitute cords of considerable size and strength; they pass off to the right and left, and ascend obliquely, passing out of the wall of the abdomen, about two inches above the groins. They then descend and are permanently inserted into the groins. This, as it will be seen, must be a suspensory support. 4. The broad ligaments arise from the upper and back part of the uterus; they are larger than the round, and are flat, being dispersed chiefly over the small of the back, and in- serted there. This support is evidently designed to suspend this organ also, and to retain it in place. COMMON SENSE. 39 a. The fifth support is a broad reflection of the peritoneum over the top of the uterus, which then reascending up the sides of the abdomen constitutes no inconsiderable support in pre- serving this organ in its normal relations. Now, much is to be learned from this arrangement of sup- ports, viewing them collectively and individually. We see the number of these supports, and that, they all are efficient. Con- sidering the small size of the uterus, we see that the amount of support lavished upon this organ is greater and more efficient, comj)aratively, than the supports or ligaments attached to the liver and other organs of the abdomen, although these organs are at least ten times as large and heavy. Looking at the mini- tude of the uterus and the magnitude of the liver, stomach and spleen, in connection with the strong and multiplied supports of this small organ compared with those of the large, we are led to conclude that something is specially to be inferred from this, of a pathological nature. After investigating the subject as far as we are able, we have been led to the following deductions. 1. That these supports were not all lavished upon this organ merely to sustain its nominal weight, but that there are, at least, triple functions for them to perform. 2. They are, first, to sustain the uterus in its specific weight. Secondly, they serve as a floor upon which the abdominal or- gans may rest, or at least, they are designed to sustain the amount of weight produced by the small intestines situated below the mesocolon. And thirdly, to act as a reserved support for the uterus in the first four or five months of pregnancy, while as yet the organ is within the pelvis, and is several times heavier than in the unimpregnated state. When we take this view of the subject, we are lost in admiration of the creative wisdom of Deity. The reader has discovered that we do not believe that, in health, the uterus or abdominal walls require all the power they have, and consequently that there is a surplus for other purposes. But should any one contend that the healthy unim- pregnated female does continually demand all these supports, then we ask, what will become of the same female, when the uterus is borne down with the ovum of considerable weight.; Surely, in this case, if there was no more power than was re- quisite before, a distressing falling and dragging of that organ would be the unavoidable consequence, in accordance with one of the most common laws of nature. This conclusion all will admit to be just. But here a faci comes up, which gives a decided feature to the matter, viz :— Were all the cases of gravid or impregnated uterus arranged in one row, it would be found that nearly half of them would not complain at all of prolapsus, and, indeed, we have not unfre- 40 COMMON SENSE. quently been called to decide whether the patient was pregnant or not, as she felt none of the common unpleasant sensations. Now this could not be if the organs, in their natural state, had no surplus strength. But further: were all the cases of pro- lapsus drawn up, rank and file, it would be found that about three quarters of the cases would consist of unimpregnated ladies, and that one-third of these would consist of virgins. This statement has been sustained by a large personal observation in practice. -,. •, , • Now with this fact before us, admitting that nature did design to sustain the gravid uterus in the first four months, by the re- served strength contained in the five uterine supports, and seeing that they are commonly able to do it, how can we ac- count for prolapsus in the unimpregnated and virgin state, when there is nothing but the normal weight for the ligaments to sus- tain ; for the uterus then has all the advantage yi the support held in reserve for the pregnant state ? Only can this be ac- counted for by admitting that prolapsus is caused, not by a deficiency of the normal suspensory supports, but on account of the superincumbent pressure from above, as we shall show hereafter. We now ask, What are the pathological inferences to be drawn from these facts ? We answer, that prolapsus uteri is not a local or primary disease of the organ or region affected ; but on the other hand that this organ is passive in the matter, ex- cepting in its reaction. The treatment of this complaint, then, should be directed to the removal of the burden from the womb and its ligaments, and not to the locality of the diseased phenomena. And also, we observe, that the usual treatment of this disease by the unpleasant and painful use of the pessary, is neither physiological, pathological, successful nor decent. We now leave this point, to refer to it again, at large, in our treatment of prolapsus, when we speak of the morbid state of the human trunk. The Abdominal Contents and Walls.—We have now examined both the pectoral and pelvic cavities in all their gross mechanical relations, and have found that the chest, to say the least, is an imperfect respiratory apparatus, and that (although perfect in its arrangement and design) it is dependent upon some other parts of the body for the effectual carrying on of its functions; and finally, that although the pelvis is independent of the ab- domen, or any other part of the body (to a great extent) in accomplishing its specific functions, yet it is subject to en- croachments and derangements, when other parts, not directly concerned in its functions, become deranged. Let us now proceed to examine the abdomen and its relative functions, and see if we cannot find in it the secret of human COMMON SENSE. 41 animal harmony, whereby every cavity, organ, and set of organs, are enabled to perform both their individual and collective func- tions, thus illustrating this great truth, that man was originally a perfect mechanism, and that health and perpetuity depend upon the preservation of this perfection in its combination. The contents of the abdomen consist of the stomach, liver, spleen, the large and small intestines, and other minor organs It will be recollected, that, in the investigation of the chest, we left the diaphragm crowded up quite high into a concave form, like twro segments of a cone, and that it afforded con- tinual support to the heart and lungs. It will also be recollected, that we showed that this organ had not power of itself to retain this position even, much less to support other bodies, or be a suspensory power to the ab- dominal organs. Keeping these points in view, we will now present the reader with the abdominal viscera in all their indi- vidual and combined bearings and functions, so far as is ne- cessary for the elucidation of our subject. The stomach, liver, and spleen, are situated at the superior portion of the abdomen, between the corresponding short ribs —in that portion of the chest which is moveable and distendi- ble. In the dead subject, we find that these organs are always in perfect contact with the diaphragm—so close that there is neither an imaginary nor nominal space between them. This indicates that such is the natural relation of these organs to the diaphragm, and the only natural one. It is also worthy of re- mark, that the upper surface of these organs is exactly adapted, in shape or convexity, to the lower concave surface of the dia- phragm. From the lower surface of this latter organ are thrown off ligaments to the organs over which it is thus spread. Os- tensibly these ligaments were designed to suspend these organs, but we have seen that this cannot be the case; therefore we conclude that their principal use is to steady them, and main- tain them in their due position. That there is considerable weight in these organs is obvious, and also, that they are apparently situated at the wrong end, also, of the cavity that contains them, as now, they are suspended, while at the bottom, they might be supported. Of the specific vital functions of -these organs we need not speak, until we come to the consideration of their morbid rela- tions. Immediately below these organs, are appended the intestines, large and small. They have attachments to each of the three organs mentioned above. The chain of the intestines is about six times the length of the human subject, and is very supple and flabby. We thus find not only the stomach, liver and spleen, without support, but we see the whole intestinal mass appended to them, with« 4* 42 COMMON SENSE. out any ostensible support. How, then, the inquiry arises, are these organs sustained in place ? ... ..i The Visceral Ligaments.—We find the abdomen lined with a thin, shining membrane, very vascular and nntable. Itns membrane (called peritoneum), in a singular manner, throws parts of itself into the centre of the abdomen, and over, and around all the furniture within. Any one who is curious to understand this point, can get a good idea of the matter by noticing the arrangements of the abdominal contents in a butchered animal, and their attach- ments to the back and sides by their leaves or strithins. These are the reflections of the peritoneum, from the back and sides. It would not be in consonance with the character and object of this work, to enter into a minute description of all the attach- ments of these organs, by which they are kept in situ. We remark generally, that all these organs have a determinate place or orbit, which is their only proper and healthy position. Again, the fact of the strongest and healthiest attachments not holding the organs in an exact relation, but allowing of motion, does not invalidate the above position, as we only contend for a specific orbit for each organ, which will allow an accommo- dating range, but not so wide or long continued as to draw permanently on the normal relations of the other organs. For illustration, take the axletree of a carriage. Its orbit is within the hub, yet it does not completely fill it, and must not, to pre- serve the office of the wheel. But this does not prove that an axletree of a determinate shape and size is not necessary to facilitate this operation. This applies to the intestines, in answer to the argument, that the mobility of them, and the elasticity of the muscles, indicate that the healthful specific functions do not depend on the certain position, or that they may undergo any geographi- cal derangement with impunity. We have been referred to the case of the protrusion of the bowel in ruptures, but in this case, so far as the inference is true, it only exhibits the large limits of the orbit or sphere of action. But be it known, that the very case cited comes in, in the aggregate, to prove our view of mechanical harmony ; for although a person may not die from a permanent or casual rupture, yet such an one suffers the most distressing sensations. Indeed their symptoms are exactly what we would expect from such a relative position of the organs. This membrane (mentioned above) runs over the nnder surface of the diaphragm, and sends ligaments to the convex surface of the stomach, liver, and spleen, thus ostensibly suspend- ing these organs from the diaphragm. This membrane is also sent into, or partially across the abdominal cavity, like a shelf in the shape of a " half moon." This tends to assist in retain- COMMON SENSE. 43 ing the mass within its appropriate range of motion. In addi- tion, it sends folds of itself from the back to the intestines, coiling them up like a ruffle, and shortening their geographical dimensions. But this attachment of these organs to the back is very loose and accommodating, allowing more range of motion in them than is proper or natural. Besides, the small, and a large part of the large intestines are below this shelf above described (called the mesocolon). This general description shows, that after all the natural attachments of the abdominal organs, their specific gravity will perpetually tend to displace them, and draw them out of their orbit, in the human system, leaving the mass to call still for infinitely more support from the diaphragm, than it is either designed or able to afford with impunity. Of course, then, we must look for an efficient power that will prevent a laxity of the bowel, unnatural tension of the liga- ments, inversion of the diaphragm, and improper violence on the tissues of the furniture, in ordinary or accidental move- ments of the body. And we mere repeat, that this power we lack as yet. We have now examined every tissue as we passed along, with reference to their tangible, natural and philosophical effect on the surrounding or connecting matter or parts, and find that sufficient support is both lacking and impracticable, acting suspensorily, and we now proceed (as a dernier ressort), to find the requisite power, from below, of a supporting character. In looking for this power, we should philosophically expect to find it in an opposite direction to the suspensory power, (i. e.) directly below the pendent organs. This support we might expect, at first sight, to find in the projecting hip bones below, which stand out like a basin. But there are two or three cir- cumstances which invalidate the efficiency of their support. I. The lining membrane of the abdomen across this basin, dividing between the organs of the upper and lower cavity, forms a natural floor for the abdominal furniture to rest upon. The back or rear surface of this floor is one or two inches higher than the front edge, so that this floor forms an inclined plane, tipping forward and downward. This floor is very smooth, and of course, when the bowels fall or rest upon the basin for support, they will not find a sure resting-place, but will mechanically fall forward on this smooth inclined plane, and be rolled towards the bone in front, and the abdominal muscles; this is what gives the usual rotundity to the abdo- men. But did this bone stand out flat or horizontally, the sup- port given would be far different and more efficient. II. Such is the weight, number and length of the pendent contents, and such the distance between the diaphragm and this bony basin below, that were there ever so much support 44 COMMON SENSE. here, there would be an unnatural elongation of them, and a consequent dragging from the diaphragm. Ill Were the pelvis even much nearer the diaphragm man it is, such is the size and mobility of the mass, that there would be a lateral displacement of it, were there no other power to assist, and thus there would be induced a dragging upon the diaphragm, in consequence of a want of surrounding support. We have now examined all the suspensory power from above the abdominal mass, and all the supporting power directly below it, in all their possible facilities, and we find, as yet, no sufficient support and protection for the mass. There is now but one more tissue to which we can turn with any hope of success upon rational grounds, and that is the tissue of the abdominal walls, and its action. CHAPTER V. ABDOMINAL MUSCLES. Abdominal Muscles.—As the last resort, then, we turn to these in quest of some power that shall philosophically complete and preserve the mechanism of the human trunk, and if we fail here, then we shall be forced to ascribe man's physical perpetuity to some unknown or divine interposition, still intan gible to human reason. In this view of the subject we shall approach its examination with great care and interest. These walls, very unlike the walls of the other two cavities, consist almost entirely of fleshy tissue, and on this account the abdomen may be said to be a vital cavity, situated between two bony ones. Again, it is the largest of the three, and con- tains the greatest mass and number of organs. Before we proceed, let us repeat, that the power we are looking for is one that perpetually and flexibly lifts up the whole truncal mass, acting in an upward and backward direction, preserving the mass in one determinate form and relation, rendering it portable with impunity. When we contemplate the abdominal muscles, at one glance, we see them possessed of and acting in a threefold capacity. I. They serve as a limit or boundary to the form, acting as is required, just as an inanimate boundary of a proper form would. But were this all, that is, were there no vitality or COMMON SENSE. 45 motion in them, but a mere mass of inflexible matter, what would be the consequences ? The answer is obvious. Let them fit ever so well, there would be great danger of injury, for the bowels have no given dimensions, but vary wTith circumstances, and were their walls composed of bone, it is plain, that in cases of starvation or casual emptiness, the abdomen would not be full, and, of course, there would not be exerted the proper apposition be- tween the bowels and muscular walls. As the result of this, there would be a general hanging and gravitating of all the organs, producing its specific and natural effects. There would also be exerted a stretching, which is unnatural, and tends to fracture, besides many other necessary effects. Or, on the other hand, in case of great sudden or casual fulness of the bowels, there would be no elasticity in these walls, whereby to give way and accommodate the new condition. In that case there would be produced great pressure, obstructing the circulation, and, in short, inducing a host of fatal effects, per- ceptible even by an ordinary mind. II. We see that the walls of the abdomen must be as they are, of a flexible character, unlike the walls of the other cavi- ties. And here may we be permitted to ask the religious atten- tion of every reader, to these wise and benevolent arrangements exhibited in our creation and preservation, and these will be more apparent as we proceed to speak of the remaining charac- teristics and functions of these muscles. Let us then contemplate these walls in the light of vital organs, susceptible of motion and change as circumstances may render necessary. We see that besides being matter of a proper shape, they are animate matter, with the inherent power of shortening and being elongated. This is called the contractility of texture, and is not under the control of the will, but is an involuntary action. . Shall we notice the advantages of this peculiarity? In addi- tion to the supporting passive properties of an inanimate wall, they accommodate the bowel in every degree of fulness or emptiness. If disease or want of nourishment causes great emptiness and diminution in the size of the abdominal contents, these vital contractile walls draw or follow up, and maintain a com- parative fulness and firmness, thus preventing a sense of vacancy, emptiness, and dragging in the cavity. Or if indul- gence, disease or accident have enlarged these organs very much beyond their usual dimensions, then the muscles distend themselves, thus avoiding a fatal compression, or the uncom- fortable sensation that must necessarily follow a contrary stat.? of things. We see, then, that in fulness and emptiness, we preserve 46 COMMON SENSE. nearly the same relative position (in health), in consequence of this vital quality of these walls. Ill The third property of these walls is, that they consist of a series of parts, or distinct organs, mechanically arranged, each part having its specific functions to perform, the whole having a collective and individual set of functions to superin- tend. Let us now examine these walls with reference to this last property, look into the arrangement of the parts, and observe the mechanical influence of each and all of them. These parts are called muscles, and are distinct slips of flesh of various but determinate sizes and shape. In this description and examination, we shall not be particu- lar to speak of their exact origin and insertion, as this would be unnecessary and beyond the object of the present work, but shall speak in general but correct terms, saying only what is necessary for the elucidation of the subject. The first muscle to which we call attention is the transversalis muscle, or one that runs and acts chiefly transversely on the abdomen. This muscle arises from the haunch or hip, and back bones. A portion of this muscle runs upward, and is inserted into the edge of the lower ribs; but the larger part of the fibres run in a circular direction round the body, their ex- tremities meeting in the centre and front of the abdomen, where the fibres mix and are so much compressed as to become white, as any one may see when an animal is cut open. This is called the linea alba, or white line. We see that this muscle arises from the base of the abdomen, and from the back, and that it is fastened at the ribs and in front of the abdomen; and as the lower and back part of this muscle will be the fixed point, of course the pivot of motion will be behind. We see also that this muscle extends like a sheet from the base to the top of the abdomen. What will be the natural action of this muscle on the furniture within, upon philosophical principles ? Let us see. Some of the fibres run from the base to the top of the abdomen, or bottom of the chest. Of course, whatever action th'ese fibres exert, will be to draw down the ribs, and thus con- tract the chest. But as the fibres run chiefly round the body, the principal action will be to support the abdomen and dimin- ish its size by the inherent contractibility or elasticity of its fibres. But as Dr. Wistar has it, " its proper action is to dimin- ish the capacity of the abdomen, and so perfectly does it do this, that it might not improperly be called the constrictor of the abdomen." From this description it is evident that, the organs derive great support from this muscle, it keeping them well com- pressed. But it is also evident, that it acts in a posterior or backward direction, not lifting, but pressing about as much downward as upward; and thus dragging upon the diaphragm, COMMON SENSE. 47 presses some of these organs on to the womb, bladder and rec- tum, mechanically displacing them. This shows that were there even ten times more power in this muscle than there is, it would not fill the requisitions or indications of nature, in giving a general upward direction to all the organs. We have now found the first power of expiration or the con- traction of the chest, in those fibres that run up to the ribs. The next muscles to which we call attention are the internal and external oblique, of which one set extend from the hip ot fan bone and back, and run obliquely upward, and are inserted into the lower ribs, but most of their fibres run into the white line at the foot of the abdomen; the other set arise from the lower edge of the ribs and from the back, and run obliquely downward, and are inserted into the white line and pelvic bones. Now, what is the most obvious use of these muscles, judging from the direction of their fibres ? We answer, first, that they add to the boundary mass, and strengthen the walls. Secondly, when they are healthy, and exert only their native elasticity, they act as braces at each side to keep the back bone straight, as a ship's stays retain the mast in its proper position. And again, when they contract, both at once, they tend to pull down the ribs, and contract the chest, aiding still more in ex- piration, and also in bending the body forward. But if one only contract, then the body will be drawn to one side. We should especially notice that these muscles, in a supporting point of view, act much like the transversalis muscle, viz., m a backward and not in an elevating direction. We wish to have it here observed, that we are fast gaining the power of expiration, so far as the contraction of the chest is concerned. But we yet lack the power whereby the abdominal contents are to be perpetually rolled upward from off the bladder, womb and large bowel, the diaphragm and heart sustained, and all the truncal organs kept in a close and portable contact. It is however evident, that on the whole, the connected action of the three sets above mentioned, rather tends to the upward action. I should also remark, that when the descending oblique muscles, which run obliquely downward and inward to the centre of the abdomen, act, they tend to elevate the abdominal The next muscle is called the rectus abdomi'nalis muscle. It arises from the front of the pubes (or projecting bone at the base of the abdomen). It is shaped much like a suspender, and is a beautiful muscle. It runs up the front of the abdomen, and is inserted into the lower extremity of the breast bone, at the pit of the stomach. This muscle is three bellied; (1. e.) it is divided into three parts-the upper, middle and lower, by a white, tendinous substance, which cannot contract. 43 COMMON SENSE. This muscle is under the control of the will, and can be made to contract in its whole length, or in either one of its bellies. What is the use of this muscle ? We answer : its action will of course be confined to the front of the abdomen, and to a perpendicular direction. Its effects are various and multiplied. Frst, when it acts in its whole length, it draws down the breast and compresses the abdomen, throughout its course. More especially does it bend the body forward, as its lower end is the fixed point. But, if the muscles of the back antagonize, or draw the body in a contrary direction, then the bending action will be neutral- ized, and the body made more erect. But eveu in this case, this muscle exerts a very important and unequivocal influence upon the abdomen. For, when this muscle contracts, and doe's not bend the body, its specific action will be exerted upon the lower belly, by the extremity of the muscle ; or the will may act alone on the lower fleshy part. Now it is obvious, that when this muscle acts at its lower extremity only, it of course can only affect the lower capacity of the abdomen. Then, whatever contractible power this mus- cle does exert, will give just so much preponderating power in the upward and backward direction. Here, in a special manner, do we begin to find the second expiratory power; for while the other muscles tend to draw down the ribs, producing all the necessary active contraction of the chest, and gently elevate the organs within the abdomen, this muscle more effectively raises them, thus causing a com- pression of the diaphragm by their perpetual ascent. By this means a compression of the lungs is produced, the air passively expelled, and respiration necessarily effected. We have now not only found a power whereby all the furni- ture is supported and compressed, but also a power by wn>cu they are directed upward to sustain each other. We now proceed to consider another muscle, which is the last, and whose action places the view we have taken beyond a doubt. We refer to the pyramidalis muscle, so called from its resembling the pyramid in its shape. Its broad base arises from the bony protuberance in front, that is, the pubes, and it runs up only about half way to the navel, where it diminishes to a point. Of course this muscle can have no other action than to contract the abdomen within its own sphere. This muscle, in connection with the individual and collective action of the other muscles, will give a most decided upward direction to the abdominal organs, and will do this just in pro- portion to the laxity or firmer tone of the muscles. We have thus finished our philosophical remarks upon the mass and different Darts of the abdominal walls; and now we COMMON SENSE. 49 ask you, reader, with the abdomen of a healthy man or child before you, contemplating its round shape and the arrangement of its muscles, if it is not evident that these latter organs give shape to the abdomen, and serve as a binding link to the whole trunk ? Do they not preserve the perpetuity of the one only natural and healthful relation of the different parts, whereby each and all perform their several and collective functions ? Do they not act as a band to a bundle, keeping all the contents in a portable condition; and do we not see that without their healthful and efficient action, the whole mechanical physiology would be broken up ? We have thus far attempted to show that these organs effect their purpose perpetually through their natural elasticity or involuntary action. But in addition to this, these organs have a voluntary contraction, which is under the control of habit and the will. This is proved by our own senses and consci- ousness, and by physiological inferences. We see that these muscles are the actual organs of respira- tion, as has been before hinted ; and also of vocality in every healthy degree. The manner in which they accomplish the latter, is the same as that in which they effect expiration, that is, by pressing upon the lungs through the medium of the ab- dominal contents, then suddenly contracting, eject the air. To prove this, let any person stand at ease, and place his speaking organs in a passive state, then with his hand, let him gently strike or raise up the abdomen, and a monosyllable will be pro- duced, which will be natural and of a key corresponding with the position of the vocal tube and the muscles of the throat. But again, this point is made still more clear by comparison and analogy. « For instance, observe the swine as he goes grunting along the road. Watch him! See how his flanks begin to move near his hams, and see how they work forward towards his chest, as though something was drawn suddenly around him, diminishing his abdomen ! Thus the abdominal mass is sud- denly pressed forward against Jhe lungs, expelling a deep guttural sound, with no effort of the chest. When he squeals, we see the same principle even more evidently illustrated ; he never becomes hoarse. See the cow when she lows; how she ex- tends her nose, straitening her air passage, and how her abdo- men is raised and throAvn forward toward the chest, mechani- cally expelling the air and producing clear and deafening sounds. When the sound ceases, the abdomen falls back into its former place. The same is seen when the horse neighs or respires after the chase ; his flanks are alternately and rapidly expanding and contracting, and his breath and sounds corres- pond with these movements. When the dog barks, his chest is nearly passive, but his flanks 5 50 COMMON SENSE. suddenly contract as often as he speak*, working up towards the abdomen. This animal is remarkable for his almost end- less and incessant vociferations, and yet, neither he nor the ani- mals mentioned before, are troubled with the bronchitis, or become hoarse. But we are not left to the light of analogy or comparison alone. Let us return to the human subject, where nature hag never been perverted by habit or mistaken art. Take the cases of the untutored Indian and the healthy child. Contemplate for a moment the wild, independent son of the forest. See how erect he stands, how noble and firm his form, and how elastic his abdominal muscles! When he runs (often from morn till night), in the chase, without food, see what he does! As his abdomen becomes empty, and his viscera cease to fill effectually the cavity, he draws up his belt and brings the abdominal walls together, thus maintaining a perfect apposition of all parts, and keeping up a support of the heart and lungs. When he sings, see how erect he is; how he elevates his head, and how wide he opens his mouth! His sounds are clear and deep, as if from his stomach, while he scarcely moves his lips. Every intonation gives the idea of a power below, boosting out the sound, and not that of a flat Yankee sound, which apparently is created between the teeth, and in the nose. He does this by voluntarily contracting and relaxing alter- nately the abdominal muscles at each sound and interval. Let us now look at the child. Here we may expect the most natural of all motions and effects, for it neither knows how to do a thing right nor wrong. Feel of its abdomen. See how round and hard it is, how firmly the muscles have involuntarily grasped and hold the ab- dominal contents in their proper places, lifting them up towards the lungs! When it inspires, see how hard the abdomen swells, the diaphragm presses down the organs, putting the muscles on the stretch, and these again, partly by involuntary, and partly by the voluntary contraction, through the nerves of motion, react, and throw back these organs against the lungs, pressing out the air. But when the child cries, we find, by placing the hand upon its abdomen, that all the muscles contract and become rigid, acting violently in the production of the incessant and passion- ate cries. Was it ever known that a well child, which had never attend- ed school, became hoarse by hallooing or crying ? Besides, at this age, there is something peculiarly musical in their voice. Thus we see that by necessity, physiological inference, analogy and comparison, reason and facts, we have shown, beyond a doubt, that expiratory and vocal power lies on the COMMON SENSE. 51 ttbdominal walls, and that when we thus use them, we meet the intention of the divine Architect. But it may be urged in opposition to this view, that few act, or breathe, or speak in this manner, and yet they all live, and all breathe and speak ; and also, that it would be remarkable, to say the least, if the majority should depart from the natural and designed course. In reply, we would remark, first, that our own experience in the business and events of life assures us, that it is not everything that is done which is well done, or even half done, or done to answer the purpose of our being. The fact of there being a proper way to do anything does not prove that there is no improper way. Custom, habit and igno- rance more often set their seal upon and sanction the latter than the former. So it is here : for, is it not obvious that few people breathe with long and full inspirations, and also that there are few but are complaining, of affections of the breast, at an early period of life ? As to the latter objection, that all would not thus have offended against evident natural laws, we have only to say, that " all have gone out of the way," and that there is "none that doeth good, no, not one," in a physi- cal as well as moral sense. The truth is, that ease and indo- lence, with bad habits, and faulty physical education, do naturally bring the whole world into corresponding bondage. But to test the truth of the vocal qualities of the abdominal muscles, let any one stand erect, elevate the mouth and explode or pronounce fully and clearly the vowels; let him do this with- out any effort of the throat or chest, but concentrating his will upon the abdominal muscles, cause them suddenly to contract, as does the swine, dog or horse, he will find that his voice will be clear, loud and smooth, and made with little effort. Although the throat be sore, it will not be irritated in the least, but even gradually recover under the most protracted and violent speak- ing, conducted in this manner. But let him lean forward, relax the abdominal muscles, and compress the chest and then speak loudly, without the contraction of the muscles, and his voice will be harsh and husky, or feeble and very unpleasant to the ear. Besides, he will feel a rasping sensation in the throat, and a concussion in the breast. But we must now leave this point, to resume it again in our remarks upon the philoso- phy of the voice. We have now completed our description of the bare walls and contents of the whole trunk in gross, showing both then- individual place, and collective bearings. This mechanical arrangement constitutes the normal or natu- ral and only truthful relation which is calculated to produce and perpetuate healthy phenomena. In the succeeding re- marks, we shall suppose the binding link (or the abdominal 52 COMMON SENSE. muscles), to be relaxed, and producing a long train of mal- relations. . We shall now take a morbid view of the trunk, apply it to consequent diseases, inquiring what would be the necessary result of this change of the mechanical parts, m the light of philosophical principles. CHAPTER VI. ABNORMAL OR UNNATURAL RELATIONS—THE MORBID INFLUENCE ON THE URINARY BLADDER—MORBID EFFECT ON THE RECTUM OR LARGE BOWEL—MORBID EFFECTS ON THE UTERUS AND ITS AP- PENDAGES—THE LIVER—THE STOMACH. Abnormal or Unnatural Relations.—Let us now suppose the abdominal muscles to be relaxed, as in figures four and six, ceasing to contend with the law of gravitation. What may we rationally expect to be the effect ? Before we proceed to answer this inquiry, it will be expe- dient again to state that this morbid view will be conducted upon exactly the same principles as was the natural or healthy one, viz., it will be presented in the light of common sense, with- out any reference to anything abstruse or mysterious. Let the reader then closely examine our positions as they shall be pre- sented in order, assured if these are correct, that the inferences which naturally follow must be correct and practical, however they may seem to conflict with pre-conceived opinions or long established prejudices. The great question now is, are the views as laid down in the introductory in accordance with common sense, and are the structures and combinations of the human trunk correctly stated in the preceding pages ? If so, then, we have firm ground to stand upon in our future progress, and every assurance that the conclusions to which we may be led will be correct. With these prefatory remarks, and keeping distinctly before the mind the orbit or relation of each and all the organs, in the normal state, as before described, we proceed directly to our task. Let us suppose that from some cause, the abdominal muscles have become weak and relaxed, and cease efficiently to resist the perpetual gravitation of the abdominal organs: or, in other words, that instead of acting like elastic strips of India-rubber, when put on the stretch—perpetually striving to get back to their original dimensions—they act like wet fiddle-strings or cat- COMMON SENSE. 53 gut, yielding to every distending power. What will be the local effect upon the snug and well packed organs within, that have until now mutually supported each other ? Our opiniou is, that in this case, the bowels will still crowd upon the muscles, particularly at the lower belly, enlarging it, and causing a distension of its walls. Following up the effects, upon the same mechanical grounds, we next see that the intestinal mass will no longer be compact, and in a round, snug form, as in figures three and five, but will be separated and elongated, as in figures four and six. Of course, they will drag after them the stomach, liver, and spleen, or to say the least, will cease to support them as formerly. Let us ascend still farther, and carefully mark the extended train of morbid relations. Remembering that the diaphragm is unable to support the organs beneath it, and indeed that it was not designed to per- form this office, we can see how the ligaments that sustain the stomach, liver and spleen, being put upon the stretch by the specific gravity of these organs, must tend to invert and lower the diaphragm from its natural and high position, as before ex- plained. Bearing in mind also, that the diaphragm was always to press upon even the collapsed, lungs, and to sustain the heart to a great degree, wuat will be the consequence of this descent of the diaphragm ? We answer, a space is left between the lungs and the diaphragm, and only a point of the heart, instead of its whole lower surface, rests upon the latter. But descending again, let us see how the pelvis and lower organs are affected. We see that these lower organs have now to act as a pack-horse for those above, and, in addition to their own weight, they have a superincumbent one to carry, pro- ducing the following mechanical influences upon each of the organs, viz.:—The urinary bladder must be compressed or turned back, the wombt depressed or also turned back, and the large bowel mechanically obstructed. The nerves that pass from the back to the hips and limbs, supplying the power of sense and motion, will be either drawn out of place, com- pressed, or, to say the least, the surrounding organs will hold a new relation to them. Furthermore, the veins passing up the limbs as well as those of the bowel will be unnaturally com- pressed, and the lining membrane of the abdomen will be upon the stomach. Again, we see that in figure five, the apparent object of our Creator was, to throw the abdominal organs back as near the axis of the body as might be; but now they have fallen for- ward and downward, out of the axis of the body, at a much greater distance from the spine, increasing the leverage of gravi- tation against the spine, or base of the body. These are a few of the mechanical effects of a morbid relaxa- tion of the muscles, an effect that even the eye might discern, 5* 54 COMMON SENSE. and that might happen to an inanimate combination of the same kind, influenced by a mechanical displacement. But as man's mechanical arrangement is only a machine whereby may be exhibited an animate, noble and vital set of phenomena, we may now ask what will be the functional effect upon each and all of these organs, by such a disarrangement > What would sound reason and a careful judgment expect; Some say, that such is the mobility of the human tissue, and the accommodating powers of nature, and so trifling is the de- rangement, that no sensible functional influence can or will result from it. In reply we would observe, that if even a nominal derange- ment be admitted, no matter how much or how little, it is suffi- cient for our purpose, and all we now ask. It should be borne in mind, that our systems are not only mechanical and perfect, but that they are endowed with vitality and great sensitiveness or susceptibility also, and that the vital susceptibility is only able to operate, when the mechanical combination which it moves, in a functional point of view, is in its exact and primi- tive state. Of course, then, the most trifling disturbance would be felt by the sentient part of man. This law is perfectly apparent in all the cognizable functions of every organ. For instance, take the finger; it has a given dimension, and a natural function to perform; but suspend even an inconsidera- ble weight from it for 24 or 28 hours, and it will give manifesta- tions of new and diseased action. It will undergo more or less pain, and some degree of extension; not so much because of the violence applied to it, but because it is subjected to a new action and new relation. And the finger too, although its natural function is to lift great weights, yet, if kept too long extended, with only an ounce ball, will lose its elasticity or power to bend itself, and will be absolutely elongated to some extent; trifling, then, as has been the we*ight, and slight as was the extension, yet it has nearly interrupted its functions. The truth is, that words are nothing in themselves, but require the power of circumstances to give them determi- nate signification. For instance, upon a long road, a mile may be said to be a short distance ; or, in comparison of two routes, men may say there is but little difference, that is a few miles. But when we come to discuss the difference in the length of noses, or the merits of a watch, the meaning of terms has very much changed. We say of one man, that his nose is very long, when it may not differ a half, or even a quarter of an inch from another's; and in the watch we say that a wheel is much too large or small, when the whole may be put in a nut shell. So that the smaller the object, the more necessary is perfect and exact adaptation; and the terms large and small may be often inverted with perfect propriety. COMMON SENSE. 55 Thus, in the case before us, we have an actual displacement among small, complicated and sentient parts, that have a cor- responding complicated set of functions to perforin. May we not, then, with perfect propriety, expect some functional de- rangement as the result ? Having devoted so much space to the settlement of this im- portant point—much and little—we now proceed to view in order, the scattered and oppressed mass, commencing with the pelvic organs What will be the functional effect of this displacement upon the urinary organs, rectum and womb ? It will be recollected, that they are now carrying unnatural weight, and are, of course, oppressed. The Morbid Influence on the Urinary Bladder.—This organ, in the healthy subject, floats in the abdomen, to accommodate itself in extension, as in Fig. 5 ; but in Fig. 6, we see that it is turned back, compressed in size, and of course diminished in capacity and power to retain the urine a proper length of time. In this case there will exist an incontinence of that fluid, and a frequent desire to void it. Or, in another case, it may bend the body of this organ back or forward, producing both a compression and angle in the neck of it, and thus mechanically obstruct the exit of the fluid, inducing a terrible and often fatal disaster. But this does not go to show that there are no other causes for this malady, re- quiring appropriate internal treatment; but when the above is tne case, we ask, how many pumpkin seeds, how much Harlem oil, or spirits of nitre, will it require to relieve the suppression, or in incontinence, how much tinct. lyttea, balsam copaiva, bitters, etc., etc , will it require to remedy the matter. It is plain to see, that the whole of this treatment would be of no avail. Shall we inquire what will ? We know that the reader will say that the organ itself is not sick, and needs no medicine. Let but the oppressive and superincumbent weight be removed, and all will be well—the patient saved from the annoying use of the catheter, and the disgust of taking a host of nostrums. Let no man, then, in these difficulties, ever think of internal dosing, until he has first examined into the patient's form and habits See if the abdomen is not pendulous at the base, while it is relaxed and retracted in its upper regions, or, in other words, let him be sure that there is not a natural and mechanical cause for the origin and perpetuity of the com- plaint. I have seen many cases, both of incontinence and retention of the urine, which have resisted all other treatment, and yet have yielded to the simplest mechanical remedies, act- ing upon the above principles. I now ask the confirmed hypo- chondriac and dyspeptic, if he is not troubled more or less 56 COMMON SENSE. with retention of the urine, and if he does not find that his ab- domen is different in form from what it formerly was, if it is not retracted at the pit of the stomach, and sunken and hard at the lower belly. Many such cases have been relieved of troublesome urinary incontinence, by some power applied to hold the bowels from the organ, and change the shape of the abdomen. In retention also, after all ordinary treatment has failed, the patient has been relieved by following the direction of an old lady, viz., to turn the sufferer on his face. Morbid Effect on the Rectum or Large Bowel.—We see that in lieu of the elevated state of the small bowels, there is now a partial descent of them, and that they rest with peculiar force on that prominence of the back-bone where it juts forward, and where the bowel dips down into the pelvic or lower cavity. Now, in our view, it does not require any stretch of reasoning to conclude, that this will finally produce a mechanical ob- struction, in this bowel, to the regular descent of the fasces. What will be the natural consequence of this ? Of course there must occur an accumulation of alvine matter, and the frequency of the regular discharges be diminished. This mass will become hard and heating, absorbing the natural secretions of the bowel; like a foreign substance, irritating the inner mem- brane and nerves, and inviting an undue quantity of blood to it. This will, indeed, be a gradual, but certain result. Added to this mechanical view, there is another consideration that operates in the production of obstinate cases of costive- ness. We see in the healthy child, or adult, that the abdominal muscles are like India rubber, or an elliptic spring; so that when we step or fall, the contents of the abdomen descend upon them, and distend them; these instantly react, throwing themselves and the superincumbent bowels back to their former position. This any one can test by placing his hand on the lower belly, and stepping heavily. He will sensibly feel the vibration or Teaction of which we speak. Two purposes are subserved by this arrangement. First, it tends to preserve the organs from injurious contact and bruising, and thus they have always a gentle movement. The second result obtained by this motion and pressure, is, one of the most constant and necessary stimulants to functional action. This action stimulates the bowels to motion and to secretion. But now, how different is their condition, the bowels fall and rest upon the lower belly, and upon the bones below. Here they lie so low, that they are below the axis of muscular contraction, while if there does occur a retraction or contraction at the upper belly, press down- ward, and do more harm than good. The bowels themselves thus lie inactive and unacted upon, perfectly inert and deserted by their usual facilities for action; to all intents diad or motion- COMMON SENSE. 57 less. This combination of influences may well produce per- manent costiveness without any reference to the vital energy But let us follow the effects of such a derangement still further. It will cause the whole intestinal tube to be preternaturally distended, producing derangement of the stomach, bad breath, loss of appetite, &c, Sec. It will also mechanically retard or obstruct the circulation of the blood, inducing stupor, sleepiness, ennui, and a host of other symptoms. But this state cannot long exist; this hard, foreign mass must be thrown off, and the system rouses itself up to do it. See the disadvantages under which it labors. The bowel is now very tender and dry, and so is also the mass dry; but by united energies, by the exercise of great force and straining, the mass is thrown off; but what is the effect ? The inner membrane is much larger than the outer, and lies in folds ; but this dry mass pushes these folds before it, and turns it out at the outlet. Then the sphincter muscle that closes the aperture, contracts around it, constricting it, obstructing the circulation, and forming hard and very sore tumors upon the parts. Eventually these stools will be followed by blood, and you have as genuine a case of piles as can be imagined. Now, reader, we ask, are you not forced to admit these conclusions ? If so, what treatment should these symptoms receive ? How many cathartics, Brandreth's pills, Phinney's pills, Hygeian pills, and syrups; how many homoeopathic or allopathic doses will it require to remove the cause and relieve the effects ? Never can internal remedies do efficient good ; as well might medicine, poured into the coffin of a dead man, be expected to resuscitate him. The truth is, it is a mechanical difficulty, and requires mechanical relief, and all other treatment must be worse than useless. We leave the proper treatment of such a case for another part of the work. Morbid Effects on the Uterus and its Appendages.—We find, also, that there is a radical change in the mechanical relation of this organ and its connections. Instead of having little more to do than to sustain their own weight, they have now a great weight to carry, the organs above them, to a great extent, falling upon them. The inevi- table result is, that the womb must either bear up the mass, or be greatly depressed, thus frustrating all its original relations. Let us trace out the consequences a little, further and see if we cannot find a clue to a large class of diseases that now torment the female, and which have hitherto been considered incurable. It will be recollected that wre said, that the uterus had five sup- ports; viz., the vagina below; the cellular tissue, intervening between it and the surrounding parts; the round and broad ligaments—the former arising from the side of the womb, run- ning upwards and outwards through the abdomen, and then passing down under the skin, and inserted in the groins, not 58 COMMON SENSE unlike a pulley ; the latter, arising from the top of the womb, and running upward, for the most part, are dispersed over the loins, or small of the back We have seen, also, that the peri- toneum, which lines the belly, is thrown over a large portion of the womb, and firmly attached to it. These organs, when in their proper aud natural position, are put upon all the stretch that is healthy and comfortable. Now let us mark the effect of this unnatural position. The womb is depressed; of course, evey support is put upon an unnatural stretch. The vagina, a passage from the external world to the womb, would be forced open if it were not previously relaxed, and the womb depressed into it; the cellular tissue is also put upon the stretch. Now what will be the symptoms produced by such a state of things ? Will there not be a sensation of weight, bearing down, and dragging in the lower part of the body, often accom- panied with a burning pain throughout, or in the region of the womb ? The womb also, in its descent, rests on the bones, or the soft parts below, producing pain there, and a sense of bearing down, which is aggravated by standing, walking or taking any exercise, forcing the patient to move with great care, to avoid being in the least jostled. Also, the mouth or neck of the uterus rests upon some sub- stance, which should not be, as it was designed to be suspended in space. This brings about a very hardened, irritable state of that organ, it becoming enlarged and painful, which often terminates very seriously. This has often been supposed to be a cancer of that organ; but we have seldom failed to find all affections of the uterus that were confined to its neck, cured by elevating the womb, and removing the great cause of irrita- tion. But again, this descent of the womb puts the round ligaments upon the stretch, and, of course, the result will be, that its effect will be experienced where the ligaments are fastened, viz., in the groins; hence the patient, in addition to the other sensations, will feel a dragging, drawing and pulling sensation in the groins, which, after exercise, is often almost intolerable, and makes the patient's very countenance look dis- couraged. The broad ligaments are also put upon the stretch, and as these organs spread over and fasten upon the small of the back, we look for some effects; and here, indeed, we find them in all their painful intensity, viz, the dragging, grinding, worrying pains in the small of the back, so common to the afflicted female. This pain is often so tormenting, that lan- guage is not adequate to express it; the most common descrip- tion given to me by the patients I have visited is, "I feel as though a joint or two of tlie back were gone." Now is it not plain that all the symptoms above described are rationally accounted for upon mechanical grounds, without resorting to the am- biguous and uncertain terms, sympathy, or irritation, or general COMMON SENSE. 59 debility, all of which terms give no clue to practice, and tend only to induce the taking of a long string of internal remedies, which can be of no manner of profit. Such will be the me- chanical effects, and such the symptoms ; but what will be the effect upon the functions ? So far as my experience goes, it will be as follows :-— First, the nerves of organic life are oppressed and irritated, and we may expect either a cessation or profusion of the menses; generally the latter, and very often terminating in hemorrhage from that organ, gradually wearing away the life of the patient. I have several cases in my eye while I am writing, one in particular, Mrs. P., who labored under all the symptoms before mentioned. The falling of the womb was excessive ; so much so that it pressed down the pinneum, and caused a tumor un- pleasant to sit upon. This lady rarely went two weeks without the most severe hemorrhage, and one week was her ordinary respite. This lady had taken medicine enough to either cure or kill anything, without the least beneficial effect; but upon using a mechanical appliance, which relieved the depressed uterus, both the frequency and excess of these discharges were cured to a great degree. But tkere is another set of difficulties which we proceed to detail, of which a large portion of the female community are by no means ignorant. The nerves that pass down the limbs, and supply them with the power of sensibility and motion, are derived from the back. They pass off from each side of the spine, and run through the pelvis by different apertures. It is well known that these organs are exceedingly irritable, and tenacious of their rights. But this new and morbid relation of all the parts, either drags the nerves out of place, compresses them, or, at least, throws them into some new state of association. In our view, they are actively compressed, and dragged upon, thus obstructing the medium of sense and motion. Hence are explained the following symptoms, which occur in the case of those who are afflicted with all, or a part, of the above described ills, viz , a burning, grinding, dragging pain in the limbs, particularly in the inside of the thighs, and often ex- tending downward to the feet, producing a sense of great weakness and pain on motion, with numbness and pricking sensations. Often these symptoms are accompanied with the swelling of limbs, and entire loss of motion. Such patients will feel com- fortably well in the morning, but towards night they find the above complaints coming on with withering power, accompa- nied with a distressing sensation of weakness in the hips, and dO COMMON SENSE. pain or cramp there on motion; or, as they have expressed it to me, " a feeling as though the hips would come apart," especially when going up hill, or a flight of stairs. These patients may be, in other respects, in tolerable health, and yet be of all beings, most miserable. We now ask the reader if we have not reasoned fairly, or if any one can doubt the justness of our conclusions ? If we are right, what course of treatment should be pursued in such an exigency? Should constitutional, or internal, or should me- chanical remedies be applied—remedies that will replace all the organs in their one only healthful relation ? And have we not also described the present situation and sufferings of a large portion of the heads of families, and many others ? Again, let us inquire into the effect of this change upon the vagina. This organ, in health, is designed to act much like an India rubber tube, always contracted upon itself, so that its inner surfaces meet, and also to admit of considerable disten- sion. But what do we now see ? Instead of the healthy state, we see this organ perpetually distended, and filled with the body of the uterus. This body acts like a foreign substance in this organ, and irritates its powers of life, causing the vessels to pour out a fluid, often in very great abundance, which is a kind of mock suppuration, as in the case of the maturating of a wound. Furthermore, the longer this distension continues, the more will its fibres give way and become relaxed, making less and less effort to contract to their former state. And just in propor- tion as it is distended, just so far must the pores or ducts that open into the inner surface be mechanically enlarged and re- laxed, admitting of too ready an exit of the secretions. Thus we see that although the falling of the womb might be the first cause, the effects themselves now become active causes, per- petuating the disease. This morbid state is called leucorrhaa. or whites, and we have yet to see theirs* case of this exceed- ingly disagreeable and weakening complaint that will not give way to a judicious application of mechanical support, in con- junction with other remedies. The recital of numerous cases and cures will be deferred to the practical part of this work. Another effect of this relaxation and displacement is, that the veins of both the bowels and the limbs are preternaturally compressed, laying a tangible and powerful embargo on the ascent of the venous blood, producing, of course, an enlarge^ ment of the veins of the bowels, inducing tumors or piles in conjunction with constipation. This will result also in 'an increase of blood in the veins of the legs, institutino-, or at least aggravating, varicose veins, or a predisposition to it&' Another effect is, that the lymphatic vessels, which convey COMMON SENSE. 61 transparent fluids to the trunk from the limbs, are also com- pressed, inducing an interception of the lymphatic circulation, bringing about an enlargement of these vessels, and a swelling, at first in the feet and afterwards in the limbs, alarming the patient through fear of dropsy. But observe one thing in this case, viz., that this class of patients will feel better in the morning; the swelling will be diminished, and they will be able to walk comfortably; but soon the swelling, stiffness and pain return again. What think you is the meaning of these changes ? At night the horizontal position has removed the weight from the vessels, and the fluid is permitted to pass along its way. It returns again the next day, because the compression is again brought on and the obstruction produced. This clearly shows that internal remedies should not be administered for supposed dropsy, until we are assured that it is the dropsy, and not the certain effect of mechanical displacement, and relievable by physical and rational means. Let us now re-ascend into the abdomen, and look into the natural effect of this relaxation upon all the organs. We have already spoken of the pain and weakness in the limbs; the draggiug in the groins and in the back, and the sensation of weight and bearing down in the region of the womb ;—these in the female case should be borne in mind, while we detail other symptoms above the pelvis. Effect on the Bowels.—The bowels are now supposed to lie inactive upon the womb and the pubis or front bone, so that any jostling produces a painful sensation, and the abdomen feels full and hard at this very point. The patient will always complain of a sense of deadness and weight at the lower belly. Again, the lining membrane of the abdomen is now put upon the stretch, at the bottom of the belly. This membrane is exceedingly irritable, vascular, and poorly calculated to sustain much impingement with impunity. The consequence then will be, that this state will irritate the nerves of organic life, invite an undue quantity of blood to this tissue, inducing a slow irritation or sub-acute inflammation,manifested by that soreness and tenderness so common in most cases of dyspepsy, hypochondria, and the other diseases mentioned before. We now see the whole original mass mutually impinging instead of mutually supportmg; the lower bowels fall, dragging along with them the upper; and these, if they do not drag the stomach, liver and spleen, in their fall, at least leave them to the influence of their own specific gravity. This weight we know to be considerable, and if they descend, as they undoubtedly must, their suspensory cords must be put upon the stretch, and communicate a sense of weight to the stomach and sides 6 62 COMMON SENSE. Look then for a moment to such a relation of these parts, nnd mark the effects. There is now a space (nominal at least) between the bowels and the large organs, and this is unnatural. Formerly the lat- ter were continually supported by the former. These upper organs now being unsupported, there will ensue a sensation of dragging and pulling felt in the heart, sides and stomach, to avoid which the patient leans forward as in Fig. 4. See now how small is the waist, and how the pit of the stomach turns in and sinks! See how flat and soft the abdomen is at the stomach, and how round and hard at its base! As in Fig. 4, he keeps his hand at the pit of the stomach where he feels a goneness, a sinking, a vacancy. He inclines to be crooked: keeps hollow-backed rocking-chairs; is disinclined to stand erect, because he says it " pulls"—'1 it is tight;" but when he bends forward, then the upper organs descend and find their old neighbors, and the patient, in this humped position, enjoys a kind of comfortable misery. What are the facts in the case ? The stomach is suspended by its two ends without support, and when the patient eats, he is often compelled to retire immediately to bed, because he has, he says, such a load or weight at the stomach, which is partially relieved by the prostrate posture. But the healthy subject, where the muscles are firm, feels supported and better after eating, because all the parts are more firmly sustained. This fully explains the goneness, sinking, weight and load, so much and so often complained of. Again, in the female parti- cularly, when they complain of the foregoing symptoms (as Dr. Dewees truly says), there is, almost always, a pain in the left side, in the vicinity of the spleen, and Dr. Dewees also frankly acknowledges that he cannot account for it, only he knows the fact. To us the reason appears evident. From the lower surface of the spleen, and upper also, on account of the visce- ral descent, there is a hanging, or suspension; producing pain of a hanging, dragging, dull and dead character, which is almost perpetual, and which is most generally not increased by pressing—a sure sign that there is no interior, imflammatory action. Again, how commonly are liver affections indicated by pain in the right side. But do we not see that the liver being a heavy organ, when not supported, will make large demands upon the ligaments that connect it with the diaphragm to sus- tain it. This is a very unnatural work for these ligaments to perform, and certainly they must partially, at least, invert the diaphragm, and produce just such sensations as we may now describe, viz., a sense of weakness in the right side, accompa- nied with pain generally of a dead and dull cast; the patient will have a sense of dragging and hanging, and generally lear COMMON SENSE. 63 towards that side ; incline to sit or stand with the hands upon that region. Now is there any mystery in this ? Is it not all the natural result of natural causes ? And yet, most of all such patients will be treated constitutionally for an idiopathic functional de- fect of the liver, and that by remedies which are too potent to be poured into the system needlessly, and which have no direct action upon the disease. But one thing should be remembered, viz., that this mecha- nical derangement may exist so long, or go so far, as to induce new symptoms of an inflammatory nature, thus producing a compound state of disease, requiring both mechanical and con- stitutional remedies. But even in this case the mechanical must be chiefly depended upon for a radical benefit. It is very common for patients to call upon me, representing themselves as having an affection of the liver or spleen, and dyspepsia, with many other things. When I ask them what they have done, they generally reply that they have done almost every- thing, and employed the best physicians. As a general rule, they say that they have been scarified or leeched in the side or region of the pain, and that this has been followed by blistering, then moxa or tartar emetic ointment; that they have taken the whole catalogue of syrups, a mass of blue- pill, and in a word, used the whole routine of remedies which are right and proper for primary affections of these organs. But observe, when I ask them how these applications affected them, they almost invariably reply that while they took the medicine, and kept up the sore, they felt better of the inward pain; but when the sores healed, then the old difficulties re- turned again. So we see, the truth of these cases was, that there was no primary affection of the organs, but a mechanical one, inducing some vital or functional derangements, requiring only to be mechanically replaced, and all would be well. The good effect produced temporarily by the application was this. When they were scarred, and blistered, and made perpetually sore on the outside, they felt better within, and when the outer difficulties became better, then they were again made sensible of their original difficulty. By this time, I con- clude that it is best to examine the case for myself, in my own way. I look at the patient as at a building, liable to become shattered or racked. I keep in view that he should be erect; that then his chest will be well developed, his breast and stomach full, and his abdomen firm, and not too large at its base ; this erect position pressing all the organs upward, sup- porting the upper portion of the abdomen as much as the lower. But what do I generally see ?—exactly the reverse. The patient is humped up; badly formed; breasts flat; stomach retracted and sunken; the abdomen flat and soft; the waist 64 COMMON SENSE. small, and the lower belly large (comparatively) and hard. I ask you now, if I need to doubt as to the geographical state of the inner organs ? Have I not every evidence that the lower organs must have fallen away, and left the liver, stomach and spleen unsupported, and that the patient must feel all those mechanical and functional derangements that necessarily re- sult from such a state.' I ordinarily place the patient before me, and examine the feeling and form of the body, describing at the same time his sensations so accurately that he is often greatly surprised. 1 then inquire whether the sore parts are tender to the touch ; what kind of a pain is felt; whether it be a sharp, severe and shooting pain? The answer is generally in the negative. 1 then ask if it is a dull or dead pain. " Why, y—e—s,'r is the answer. One, a lady of Philadelphia, was very expressive in her answer, when urged very hard to describe this pain. At loss for any word sufficiently descriptive, as a last resort said she, " It feels just as though it was hanging from where it is hitched." That just told the story. It was a pulling, dead dragging pain. This is applicable to either the liver, stomach or spleen, or all in combination. When I place my hand upon the small of the patient's back, pressing it, and then place the other hand at the lower belly, and raise it up- ward and backward, then involuntarily the patient straightens up, and is relieved. Now suppose that 1 should sit down be- side the patient, and gravely taking hold of the wrist, feel care- fully of the pulse ; then look at the tongue; examine the skin; inquire after the appetite, into the state of the bowels, and ask a hundred other such questions, how near should I come to the nature of the case and the proper treatment ? I should only find a multitude of diseases to contend with, and primary diseases too ; I should then be forced to deal out a formidable catalogue of internal remedies for each species. For my part, in the investigation of such a case, I should as soon feel of the elbow as the pulse, and look at the weather- vane as at the tongue, for a guide. This is the way such cases are kept along uncured and incurable—both the disease and the treatment being misjudged. In another part of this work we intend to cite a large number of cases that have come undei our notice, as illustrating the above positions, and exhibiting the happy results of a successful treatment. But these remarks have been chiefly confined to the feelings of the patient, and not much has been said of the functional derangements of the organs, as the direct result of the mal- position. We now proceed to speak of the functional influence of relaxation, in visceral malposition. The Liver.—It will be recollected, that to be mutually pressed above and below, is the proper state for all the organs • and also that the stimulus of pressure is one of the conunonest and COMMON SENSE. 65 greatest stimulants to functional action, known in the human body. So we see that the liver is perpetually pressed upon in all parts by the ribs, lungs and bowels. The function of this organ is to receive the blood which has been sent to the differ- ent organs in the abdomen, and is upon its way back again to the heart. And when it has thus received the blood, it draws out or secretes from it an element called bile, which, if left in the blood, renders it poisonous and deleterious to the system, giving a yellow tinge to the skin, and also to the white of the eyes. This morbid state of the system is called jaundice. This organ may become torpid or inactive, and insensible to the presence of the blood, its fibres neglecting to operate upon it, and jaundice will be the consequence of the blood's being loaded with bile. Or again, the nerves of organic life in the liver, which preside over this function, may become irritated instead of being torpid, and secrete a vitiated and unhealthy bile, which irritates and inflames the coats of the ducts that convey the bile into the bowels. Again, as there is no muscu- lar tissue about the liver or gall bladder, of course it must be by the surrounding pressure that this bile is thrown into the first bowel, to assist in digestion. But in a morbid state of the system this pressure is removed, and there becomes an accu- mulation of bile in the gall bladder, as the bile is not poured out. The specific effects of such a state, and the consequent indigestion will soon follow. Or, on the other hand, the reverse of this may happen. The bile may be somewhat vitiated, and after the gall bladder is filled to a certain extent, it may con- tinually flow into the bowel at improper times, keeping up an irritation and perpetual diarrluta, or chronic dysentery. This last effect explains the green stools often seen in bilious diarrhoea and dysentery. The liver is either torpid or irritable : generally torpor comes first, then reaction in the form of diarrhoea, or dysentery. This we observe in costiveness, for it is often suc- ceeded by an excessive discharge. The Stomach.—There is an analogous action in this organ. It is used to the comfortable support and stimulus of pressure. But in the present state of the trunk it has it not. The nerves that preside over the functions of this organ are sensible of a change ; that the surrounding circumstances are new, and they are soon thrown off from their balance. Let us illustrate what we mean by this effect upon the nerves of organic life, disturbing their action. If a gentleman have a study, all in order, and is very systematical and uniform in his business, it becomes a second nature to him; but if some innocent and darling child do but transpose some of his papers, he is frustrated, made peevish and irritable, and manifests it by a hurried movement and fretful speech. Now, if the noble f>nd ratioual powers of man can be affected in this way, and by so 6* 66 COMMON SENSE. slight causes, how much more may that involuntary and material part of him be affected by a similar action, when it has no judgment to guide or direct. The fact is, in this case, that the surrounding circumstances are changed, and the nerves will feel it, and generally act accordingly. It is very generally known, that the digesting power of the stomach lies in a certain fluid contained in it, called the gastric juice, or rennet, as in the stomach of some animals. This fluid is under the power or direction of the nerves of organic life, and, when healthy, will dispose of whatever is put into the stomach. Now the nerves may become torpid or dormant, and cease to manufacture (or superintend it), the gastric fluid. The consequence is, that the stomach becomes dry, and that food forced into the stomach lies there, as if in any other bag, undigested. It soon ferments, producing belching (eructations), offensive breath, and disagreeable taste in the mouth; or directly this result may ensue, viz.:—the nerves may be irritated or oppressed, and secrete a peevish, morbid, heating fluid, which irritates the extremities of the sympathetic nerves as soon as it flows over them. The consequence is, that there will ensue a burning pain in the stomach. In the torpid state, the patient will eat anything, and com- plain of nothing but a weight, or distress in the stomach; but in the irritable state, anything put into it often is immediately rejected as a foreign body, and the patient may be on the point of starvation. The same ambiguous results are true in the morbid state of the spleen; but we leave this part of the subject, to carry out our inferences. In view of what has been shown, may we not at times refer the whole train of dyspeptic symptoms to the relaxation of the abdominal muscles, and a change in the me- chanical relations ? If this be so, can these symptoms in such cases be effectually removed by medicine without correspond- ing mechanical treatment ? Yet let it be borne in mind that the symptoms may occur from other causes, requiring an ap- propriate constitutional treatment. But, what we mean is, that when these symptoms obtain, if we find the form of body above described, showing that the organs are not duly sus- tained, we should first try all proper physical means, before we plunge into the mists of experiment on the vital action. It may be, that the disease exists from a combination of causes, and requires a combination of internal and external treatment. We have in this state of the system the diaphragm con- tinually dragged upon, and permanently inverted, to a certain extent, by or in consequence of abdominal muscular relaxa- tion. We leave the visceral investigation for the present and proceed to speak of spinal affections. COMMON SENSE. 67 CHAPTER VII. MECHANICAL INFLUENCES OF RELAXATION AND ACTION ON THE CHEST—THE LUNGS—PHILOSOPHY OF THE PULMONARY CIRCULA- TION AS CONNECTED WITH THE FUNCTION OF RESPIRATION— EFFECTS OF LACING--MORBID INFLUENCE ON THE VOICE—THE FUNDAMENTAL LAWS OF MOTION. Mechanical Influences of Relaxation and Action on the Chest. - First, we shall discourse of the heart. It will be recollected that we have shown in figures 2, 5 and 7, that the organs be- low were to support the organs above, and that it was to be accomplished by the abdominal muscles. But now7, how different is the relation in figures 4, 6 and 8. The form of the abdomen is changed and sunken; the diaphragm is dragged upon, and drawn below its natural place; of course taking away a great support from the heart, so that now in- stead of being supported, it is, comparatively speaking, sus- pended. Now what may we expect in a functional point of view from this change ? We answer first, that this state is certainly a very unnatural one, and that the nerves of organic life, that preside over the involuntary action of the heart, will be oppressed, excited and irritated. This will cause both an accelerated and an irregular action ; which will vary in inten- sity, and will cause all the varieties of palpitation, or as some term it, fluttering of the heart. It has not been uncommon for ladies to ask me if the heart could ever fall or sink, and I have placed my hand on the left side of such patients, and absolute- ly found the beat much lower than I expected ; but I dare not then intimate that I thought the heart, an organ of so much importance, capable of a change in location. But now I un- derstand it; these patients were all of them drooping and relaxed, just as we have described, and the heart had abso- lutely sunk. Even Elihu seems to have made reference to this when he says, " At this also my heart trembleth and is moved out of its place." When Elihu said this, he was broken down in body by fasting and continual watching. Think you that his abdominal muscles were not greatly relaxed, his heart sunken and in great agitation ? Fig. 8 represents the dia- phragm as descended, and only the point of the heart resting on it, which is a pretty good representation of the state of those laboring under the symptoms previously described. In this case, the fastenings or moorings of the heart are put upon the stretch. As this is a very unnatural state, it seems highly probable that there would be a deranged vital action in that 68 COMMON SENSE. organ. We know that the reception of a long expected letter makes the heart leap for joy; but if it be sealed with black, it causes the heart to sicken, and almost cease to beat. Or if one's rights are invaded, and we are insulted, it rises in giant force, and beats with hasty and firm strokes, that send the blood to the very surface of the body, and makes the tired muscle ache for exercise. If then such comparatively trifling external circumstances, which have no material connection with the heart, can, through the mind, so effectually modify its action, how much more may internal circumstances of a mechanical character, and bearing directly on the heart, be ex- pected to superinduce very important modifications in its original and peaceful action ? This point is so clear that we may safely pass on to speak of the operations and effects of palpitation of the heart. When palpitation of the heart is once originated, no matter by what means caused, there are a multitude of effects or results that we may naturally expect therefrom. The first effect which we shall notice is one confined to, or felt in the heart itself. In most cases, there is a more frequent and strengthened action of the heart, and in all cases, its fibres are laboring under agita- tion, and a disposition to act, which is unusual. Let us now see what will be the natural result of this on the heart's future action. The first inference which strikes us is, that it will tend to an unnatural and diseased enlargement of the heart, and that this enlargement will prove, in its turn, a reacting and perpetuating cause of itself, on the following principles. We see, in the cases of the farmer, the black- smith, and the dancer, that the limbs most-used by these dif- ferent characters, are very large and strong. This is brought about simply by the effect of exercise, which through all ani- mate nature seems to be the natural stimulus to growth and strength. So with the heart; its fibres, by their increased action, accumulate power, and consequently growth, while the growth and power will in their turn enhance again the action. Now as we pass along, let us not forget that the offending cause is far back, even as far as the relaxation of the abdominal muscles. Another set. of affections which will or may be the direct result of the palpitation of the heart, have reference to the functions of the lungs; for the irregular and unnatural action of the heart may have induced a derangement of valves that admit the passage of the blood from one room' of the heart to another. For instance; the arteries send the blood to the lungs from the right side of the heart, and the pulmonarv veins carry it back to the left side, from whence it is sent over the whole system. Now if the valve that defends the passage of the blood from the first to the second room in the left side of the heart does not act, or becomes bony or gristly, of course COMMON SENSE. 69 the blood will be obstructed in its course from the lungs through the heart, aud on, through the system What will be the result of this mechanical derangement? We answer, that the blood will accumulate in the pulmonary veins, and of course, be gorged in the lungs, inflaming them, expanding them, and producing a sense of suffocation in them The countenance of the patient will become blue, the lips livid, and the face flushed. The lungs will be fevered and irritated. In order to free themselves, they will secrete a thick, tough mucus; there will be a troublesome cough from the irritation, inducing the patient to conclude that the lungs are the primary seat of the disease. We may infer from the foregoing remarks this simple but important inference, viz., that the apparent seat of complaining is not the real seat, or even the locality of the disease. Let us also learn that we should never attack diseases of the lungs with internal treatment, by potent drugs, before we ascertain whether they are symptomatic, and a mere effect of a remote mechanical defect, calling for mechanical and physical treatment. We are only glanciug at. these effects as we go along, and now pass to the more remote effects of the heart's palpitation. We have seen that the heart is the great engine for the circulation of the blood. Its vessels divide into those which run into the head and arms, and those which supply the lower trunk and extremities. We see that the distance to the head is shorter than to the feet, and more direct. Of course, then, when the action of the heart is increased, the blood must be sent to the brain in unusual quantities, and with increased impetus. When we recollect that the brain at all times so completely fills the cavity of the skull that the very courses of the blood-vessels are imprinted deeply upon it, we can but expect that this surcharge of blood must be attended with some material consequences. Seeing that the cranium is formed of bone, and is inelastic, what will be the effect, we ask, of ejecting in this forcible manner the blood into the delicate organs that already fill the cavity that contains them ? We answer: the nerves of seeing, hearing, tasting, smelling and feeling must be compressed, and there must ensue a sense of fulness and tightness in the head, giving rise to that beating which is felt in fever; headache on laying down in nervous people ; also accounting for the relief produced from a straining sensation in the head, by the application of a napkin around it. But for the other morbid manifestations. We may see the soft brain, its fibres compressed in every direction. Of course the optic nerve will be in some degree compressed, and as this is the great nerve of vision, its action being mechanically inter- cepted, there will be a practical interruption of its functions. The nerve affording the ear a medium by which to convey sounds to the brain will be compressed or collapsed, probably 70 COMMON SENSE. both in alternation, and either of these states will of course pro duce an interruption of the functions of this nerve, producing either a loss of sound or strange sounds. The same may be said of the nerves of smell and taste. We shall now attempt to sum the whole matter up, and try to give a rational explanation of certain things in this connection which have been hitherto in the dark, and susceptible of only vague probabilities. While we proceed to the detail, let it be remembered that the subject will be affected, permanently or transiently, with palpitation of the heart, and more or less of the train of symp- toms described as the result of abdominal relaxation. Now we know that such a patient will ofteji suddenly, after reaching or stooping, carrying a weight or ascending a hill or flight of stairs, complain of dizziness, blindness or confused vision, unnatural and frightful objects; will reel and stagger, holding upon the nearest object for support. The patient often imagines this to be a fit; complains of a sensation as of water in the head ; of ringing in the ears, with a confusion of ideas and loss of memory; clasps her head with her hands, and remains in a fixed attitude. When the fit has passed over, sometimes she will say that she felt at first a sensation of creeping up the spine, the sensation entering the brain and spreading out in every direction. Sometimes this affection passes off quietly, the patient moving gently and looking around; at other times it is immediately succeeded by bursts of tears and sobs, the patient not being able to cease or assign any reason for this conduct. At. other times they will scream, seem delirious, and talk incoherently. Such patients will be often telling that life is a burden; that they have no comfort; they will be ever looking for death, and yet when it seems to be approaching, will be filled with terror. Much may be learned from the above connection of causes and consequences. First, we may learn the probable cause of nervous troubles, viz., a general or local muscular relaxation, and not an affection of the truncal organs. In the second place, we learn that these diseases do not exist in the imagination or fancy, and do not depend upon a strong or weak mind ; neither are they under the control of the most powerful intellectual influences. Those who have followed us in our mechanical investiga- tions, will see that one might as well talk tactics to the wind, as to expect that the mind can curb or govern nervous affections brought about by mechanical causes. In this view of the subject what shall we say to those husbands or creatures who, when their faithful and afflicted wives are laboring under the above symptoms, not only refuse to afford them necessary attention, but even aggravate their sufferings by neglect or cold and unfeeling remarks--turning them off with such cruel expressions as these—"0! you are only hysterical' you will COMMON SENSE. 71 get better by and by"—and bestowing upon them a look that speaks louder than words, expressive of contempt or derision, thus increasing a thousand fold the unutterable agony of the sufferer. At this time she particularly needs the supporting arm, the kind look, the sympathizing voice, and the magnani- mous attentions of him upon whom she leans as the bulwark of her defence, her prop and her stay against the blasts of life and the howlings of adversity. In her turn, when her rock, her stay is smitten, she, like a vine, twines around him, at once supporting him, and at the same time comforting and healing. Remember kindly these tender ones, or ye are un- worthy of such a jewel, and deserve rather to taste and drink the dregs of life with no soft voice to cheer, nor soft hand to press the throbbing brow. Our remarks upon the treatment of these affections will be deferred to the succeeding chapters. There is also a ruinous class of diseases peculiar to the male sex, which is nearly allied to those above described in the female. I refer to melancholia or hypochondria. These patients we never find sitting or standing erect, with a full chest, and prominent and high shoulders. Their stomachs are always retracted and sunken, their upper belly soft and tender, while the lower is sunken and hard, as in figures 4 and 6. They complain generally of pain in the right side, and a sense of weight in the stomach, accompanied with tension or stricture, and aggravated by the erect posture. They walk w-ith their heads down, the shoulders drooped, the chest com- pressed, and the hand laid flat on the lower belly to sustain themselves, and preserve the organs in their place, and from injury while in motion. The countenance and eye express despair or despondency. It has been the writer's happiness to attend several of these (of all perhaps the most unfortunate), and he has never failed to witness a smile of satisfaction overspreading the face on being well supported upon the broad, pendent abdomen, and upon the small* of the back by the hands. They immediately straighten up, breathe freely, and are astonished at themselves. It is our opinion that the majority of the cases of hypochon- driacal and hysterical predisposition are both caused by, and accompanied with, this general malposition of the organs within, thus mechanically disarranging the nervous functions, and inducing a whole host of nervous complaints. Let me remark, that this view of the subject should teach us to exercise patience and pity towards those who are thus afflicted, and not wound them by cold or trifling jests and gibes; for we see that this mental aberration is only an effect, and not a cause—only an oppression, not a deficiency or alienation of the mind. We may also learn from the above remarks ths 72 COMMON SENSE. secret of suicide. We have been surprised and alarmed at the confessions of hypochondriacs; they almost universally tell us that they have a constant and irresistible desire or propen- sity to destroy themselves. They are restramed, they say, by a consciousness of their responsibility and consequent crimi- nality in the act, thus showing the mind to be in a sane, but de- pressed state. It is done, not because the man dares to die, but because he dares not live in this, to him, frowning world. I have many cases in my mind which have been radically re- lieved by supporting the abdomen, and relieving the trunk; some of these have been inmates of an insane retreat. These cases will be detailed i.n the chapter on the treatment of dis- eases. The Lungs.—We now proceed to inquire into the effects of a relaxation of the abdominal muscles on the lungs and their functions. In this part of the investigation, we will be very cautious, and keep our eye closely oil the mark, reasoning candidly, but talking tangible substance as the subject, and tangible principles as the media of our reasonings, proceeding carefully, step by step, until we arrive at the conclusion to which such a process of legitimate reasoning may lead. It is agreed that the natural relation of all the abdominal organs to the lungs is, to support them by preserving the diaphragm well elevated against them, both in expiration and inspiration. Thus the mediastinum, or strithin, which passes down the centre of the chest, remains in a quiescent state, and is not put upon the stretch. But in a morbid state of the trunk, what do we find ? The whole abdominal mass has descended, and ceased to render its usual support to the diaphragm. Of course this latter organ is, to a certain degree, permanently depressed. In this situation, it no longer, at any time, is in its firm and proper contact with the lungs; and there is a permanent morbid relation existing between them. In this depressed condition, the fibres of the diaphragm wilfaiot be put upon their stretch at any time by the elevating power of the viscera; consequently, these fibres will have lost their usual stimulus to contraction, so that an imperfect respiration must be the necessary result The dia- phragm having receded from the lungs, there will exist a partial vacuum between them. r This state of things will cause a depression at the stomach, and smallness of the waist, as the surrounding atmosphere will press in the ribs, and elongate the chest, for it is contrary to the animal laws to allow a real vacuum in the human trunk Thus we see that the diaphragm will neither be thoroughly elevated nor depressed in inspiration or expiration • of course its influence is thus, to a great degree, lost in respiration. Now what are the mechanical inferences to be drawn from COMMON SENSE. 73 tin.: stale of matters ? We deem them to be these: That the body will droop forward in consequence of the loss of the sup- porting influence of the abdominal contents. The weight of the trunk will crush in the short ribs, towards the centre of the body, and prevent their expansion outward ; this will produce a permanent compression of the chest, at the point which should be its most expanded and expansible part. This will also destroy the power of the intercostal muscles of the short ribs, so that the latter cannot be duly elevated by these muscles, to say nothing of the separation of their front extremities. This of course leaves inspiration to be effected chiefly by the su- perior intercostal muscles in the elevation of the superior ribs, and the expansion of the chest at that region. Hence we see why, in all cases of retracted stomach and contracted waist, the sides do not expand, nor the abdomen in inspiration; but they breathe often and short, and that, by a heaving of the upper portion of the chest, with the lobes located there. This is seen in its extremes, in the case of one suffering with consumption, or troubled with shortness of breath, the respira- tion all being effected by the intercostal muscles. Here we see the philosophy and mechanism of respiration most effect- ually interfered with, entailing on the subject all the dreadful sensations, and constitutional and local effects, which must follow from imperfect respiration; these we will consider hereafter. We showed that the mediastinum (or the partition between the right and left lungs), which is attached to the upper surface of the diaphragm, is not intended to sustain it; but now the dia ■ phragm is drawn down, and it is put upon the stretch—a very unnatural situation indeed. Hence all who habitually lean for- ward, complain of a sense of pulling in the centre of the chest when erect; also of tightness or stricture there, inclining them to walk or sit in a bending or drooped posture, so as to allow the diaphragm to descend enough to rest firmly upon the. organs below, and relax this tense membrane above. Such persons feel quite a comfortable misery when, all the old neighbors again meet each other, although in a very deranged state of the organs. This position must permanently compress the lower lungs, necessardy depriving them of the proper expansion and contrac- tion, throwing a great burden upon the upper lungs, producing local and constitutional effects, which we proceed to describe. We first ask, is it not now evident that the organs of the chest, as well as the abdomen and pelvis, are under the influeuce of the abdominal muscles, and are not the latter dependent upon a healthy relation, for the quiet and faithful performance of their specific functions? We will attend for a while to certain physiological points, and to certain general principles of philosophy, and then describe the diseases of the organ 74 COMMON SENSE. and the effects of the above described morbid mechanica1 re- lations. We shall hope, by so doing, to induce the reader to embrace the doctrine we hold, that at times the most alarming pectoral diseases are caused by a bad mechanical relation, and that they are, in such cases, curable by a restoration of the due relations, and the cultivation of the material functions. We take it for granted that the reader is now perfectly satis- fied that the philosophy and mechanism of respiration are interrupted, so that this is carried on mostly by some agency, evidently not intended in the original design. Philosophy of the Pulmonary Circulation as connected with the function of Respiration.—The ventricle (a strong muscular cavity in the left side of the heart) sends the blood, through the medium of arteries, to all parts of the system, for its nourishment and warmth. In its course, it passes through all the different organs of the body, all of which have different specific functions to perform in the human economy. The liver, for instance, secretes bile from the blood; the kidneys urine : the glands of the mouth saliva; and so all in their lot, like greedy beggars, receive their portion, and all take differ- ent compositions. This is done while the blood is passing the capillaries, or the invisible vessels which constitute the connection between the arteries and the veins. This separation of different qual- ities from the blood by the different organs, is effected by the different powers which each organ has, through the medium of what are called the nerves of organic life, or the insensible sensibility of Bichat. The blood, when it leaves the heart and enters these organs, is of a red or claret color, very warm, and loaded with elements for the sustenance of the whole body. But in its journey through the different parts of the body, the oxygen—the reddening and warming ingredient, together with the nutrious particles, are stolen away, leaving the tempera- ture of the blood low, and its qualities impoverished. Fur- thermore, it has received a poisonous and chilling principle from the system, called carbon, which blackens it, and renders it unfit and inadequate to nourish and sustain the body. Hence the reason why the blood in the arteries is red and warm, while the blood in the veins is black and less warm We see the necessity of the purification and re-enrichment of the blood to perpetuate the human phenomena. With this end in view, it now travels back to the heart through the veins, to receive amends for its losses. It reaches the right side of the heart—the opposite from which it left—and it is from thence sent to the lun^s through the pulmonary arteries, for a fresh supply of oxygen,°this being the reddening and stimulating material, which it receives through the medium of inspiration. In this last mentioned act, COMMON SENSE. 75 the cells are filled with air; the blood coming almost, in contact with it, sucks out its oxygen, and, in exchange, releases its collected carbon, so that the lack is now entirely met, and the breach in the blood healed. The blood is now sent onward into veins in the lungs, to be carried back to the left side of the heart, from whence it first started again to be distributed to all parts of the system, as before, and for the same purpose. This impoverishment and enrichment of the blood is going on simultaneously, in the well-balanced system. What is the process and design of the pulmonary circulation and respira- tion we now see, and the way is opened for us to look into the laws that preside over and govern these functions. This knowledge is important, in order to know how to maintain these functions, and how to restore them when they languish, and also that we may see with unclouded eyes, what will necessarily be the result of a breach of these functions. In the first place, we see that these vital and very essential functions are under the influence and control of the philoso- phical and mechanical powers, and that these powers must be permanently related to these organs, in order to secure the ac- complishment of the desired object. We shall proceed now to examine carefully these tender and delicate organs, and we expect to show that even the finest functions are the result of the peculiar and proper relation of the parts in their fibres and in their gross; thus making it manifest, that if the healthy functions depend upon a combination of natural relations, the unhealthy functions must of course depend upon an unhealthy set of relations, requiring physical treatment to cure them, and not medicine. We are now considering the process of the blood's purification, in connection with respiration, in which discussion the following points are to be noticed, viz.: The entrance of the blood into and passage out of the lungs, its ex- posure to the atmosphere, and the chemical changes thereby effected; the abundant entrance of the air into the cells for the final accom- plishment of the object. All of these particulars we shall now proceed to notice in a general and not particular manner. When we look at a piece of fine, dry sponge, in the sun, we see a small substance, quite compact, looking rather porous, but observe no tubes or holes passing through it. If we im- merse this sponge in water, we shall observe that it enlarges, and that it is now full of tubes passing through it, some of them admitting a quill. Now how has this happened ? for surely these holes have not been made since its immersion, and the sponge Teturns to its former state when dry. It is evident that the insinuation of the water has separated the fibres of the sponge, and enlarged the whole mass. It will be seen also, that the walls of the invisible pores are passively and 76 COMMON SENSE. mechanically drawn apart, increasing the diameter of the tubes very materially The general expansion has accomplished this in the most natural manner, and the contraction of the sponge ef- fects the contraction of the tubes in the same natural manner The doctrine taught by this is, that the expansion of a porous body en- larges the dimensions of the tubes, and gives them a correspond- in" receiving and conducting ability ; and also, that this ability is only a passive condition, and not an inherent quality of the tubes. Now for the application. We see at the birth of the still-born or the living child, that the lungs are small, comparatively heavy, and compact. Should we look into them, we should see some pores, but no large cells or tubes of much dimen- sions, and no circulation in them, save that which is designed to nourish them, and this is very inconsiderable indeed. In this respect, they are very much like the dry sponge, the ribs being in close contact with them, through the pressure of the surrounding atmosphere. Previous to this, the infant's blood has been purified by its mother; but now that it is separated from its mother, removed into independent life, it must purify its own blood or die. This is done by the blood being sent to the lungs, and through its tubes brought in contact with the external air. But what have we now ? Why, the dry sponge; its tubes closed, the whole substance contracted, and of course the walls of the arteries collapsed, and allowing of no passage through them. They cannot be expanded by the power of the heart, because, by the influence of the atmospheric pressure, the diaphragm and ribs are continually pressed in upon the lungs, resisting thus the heart's contraction. Thus we are shut up at the very outset, and the important process cannot even begin, for want of capacity in the arteries. The defect, we see, is a physical one, and not vital, and there must be a physical change before any advancement is made. Or mother words, it is evident that an expansion of the lungs must firs'. take place, before an entrance of the blood into the lungs can be secured. Inspiration then must be accomplished, with all its necessary attendants, to open the arteries for the admission of the blood. This shows us clearly that inspiration is the first act of independent life, and this failing, everything else fails to follow. How this is effected, we notice again curso- rily, as we have before explained it in a former part of the treatise. When the child is born, if it be strong, it must breathe, and accordingly the Creator commands the machine to Plau ' and immediately the intercostal muscles shorten themselves thus drawing up the ribs, enlarging the chest; the diaphragm' also shortens its fibres, drawing itself down, flattening its surface, increasing the perpendicular dimensions of the chest At the instant that this vacuum is commenced, the atmosphere rushes COMMON SENSE. 77 into the lungs (in a passive manner, so far as the lungs are concerned), and fills up the cells, expanding them, so that they compress the diaphragm and ribs as much as when collapsed. This is inspiration ; and what has been effected by it ? The expansion of the lungs and the arteries, together with the re- quired supply of air. Now we see the wet sponge and the tubes in it: an unobstructed entrance is now afforded for the blood, and an open passage through the lungs; the cells are also spread out wide, like a table of refreshments—exposing a large surface—so that the blood flows directly up to the air, and is purified; while the capillary vessels are also enlarged to their utmost, facilitating the passage of the blood through into the more capacious veins. But now the blood being purified, it is necessary that it should pass along back to the heart for distribution, and make way fbr a succeeding quantity of impure blood, to undergo the same process, and so on in one ceaseless round. Therefore we must now provide for the mechanical expulsion or exit of the blood, as well as for its mechanical entrance. While the blood has become pure, the air within the lungs has been made impure; of this the lungs must be rid, and a succession of fresh air secured. To accomplish this, the intercostal muscles now relax again, relieving the ribs, and they sink back again to their normal position, thus gently compressing the lungs. The abdominal muscles contract and compress the abdominal organs, elevating them, and of course elevating the diaphragm, compressing the lungs and expelling the air. By this means we see that the whole substance of the lung is compressed, the cells, the arteries and veins contracted. Of course the blood in the veins is pressed back into the heart, and this is the very end, the accomplishment of which was desired. Thus we see that inspiration, among the many things it effects, also effects the circulation of the blood (in conjunction with the heart) in the lungs; and expiration, while it would seem to be instituted for some other primary purpose, by the compression of the lungs, effects the return of blood to the heart, assisted by the suction of the latter organ, after its cav- ity is emptied. What a display of creative wisdom and power is this ! what economy! what exactness ! After taking an ex- tended and comprehensive view of all these relations and their connected results, we ask, What is to be learned from them ? We answer, first, that whatever interferes with respiration, strikes at every other function, and just in proportion as this is intercepted, the whole system is injured. In the second place, we learn that the expiration will be im- ' perfect in the same ratio that inspiration is. Thirdly, we learn that whatever cause, whether permanent or casual, accidental or intentional, tends to diminish the cali- 7* 78 COMMON SENSE. bre of the chest, especially at its most capacious and distensi- ble part, destroys the influence of the intercostal muscles, miw< compress the lungs and their vessels, thus preventing a fresh supply of air, and depriving the lungs of their natural exercise, which is their stimulus to functional action. In a word, we see that the erect posture, the elastic abdo- men, the broad, full chest, a plump stomach, and the regular rise and fall of the lower ribs, are the grand preservatives of life and physical comfort. This will appear even more evi- dent upon examining these organs and their functions in a morbid state. We now suppose that the abdominal muscles are relaxed, the diaphragm inverted, the mediastinum made tense, the body drooped, the lower chest contracted and kept so by the weight of the body, destroying the influence of the intercostal muscles, so that inspiration will only be carried on by the upper lungs and intercostal muscles, interrupting or ob- structing both respiration and the pulmonary circulation. What will be the sensations experienced and the symptoms manifested in this state of things ? The blood, we ansAver, will flow imperfectly and slowly in the lungs, and, being in a poisonous condition, will heat and irritate the delicate tissue, create a sense of swelling and tightness, a smothered heat, and shortness of breath. There will be but little air in the lungs ; of course then the lungs will be poorly expanded, and there will be but a small surface of air cells to be presented to the blood for its purification by the atmosphere. In this state the minute capillary vessels will be morbidly small, increasing the difficulty of circulation through them into the veins, oc- casioning a damming up, or engorgement in the lungs. This will induce intolerable tightness of breath, and a sense of full- ness, as if breathing through a sieve or cloth. This stricture will especially be felt in the centre of the breast, and as there will be but a partial compression of the lungs, for want of a full expiration, the blood will linger in the veins, and move tardily back to the heart, illy prepared to subserve the wants of the system. It will be observable that the expansion will be near the throat, and that the breathing will be increased in frequency, to make up for imperfection in its length or quantity; for the system will have about the same quantity ol air or gradually sink away. There will also be a sense of sinking and pulling at the stomach, which will be aggravated upon taking the erect posture, from the dragging of the sunken organs below which will be relieved by placing the hand at the lower belly, and lifting firmly upward In this state the lungs would soon suffer, but nature is true although we are not, and to relieve herself, secretes a mucous or ropy spittle, which is thrown off by a couo-h It is this cough, after all, that keeps us alive for years under these COMMON SENSE 79 morbid relations. Again, this compressed state of the lungs on the one hand, and congestion on the other, tend to the rup- ture of the delicate vessels, and induce bleeding from the lungs. This compression will, in the end, produce a total loss of expansion, and a collapse of the lower lobes of the lungs, so that the cool and reviving air is almost a stranger to them. The result is. that the cells secrete a glutinous fluid, which fills them up ; their walls finally adhere to each other, and soon become torpid and hard. New vessels begin to shoot out in consequence of the pent up blood in them, and we have now another substance than lung—a hard, heavy, indurated mass. Inflammation sooner or later ensues and we have matter, or tubercles, which indicate that life is threatened by the king of terrors. By this time, my reader perhaps has become alarmed for himself, or his friend, and is determined to change his habits and practices. If so, then I have gained one important object of my little work. But I have not done. In view of the fact that it is requisite to engage all the com- bined influences above described, to secure an ample volume of lung, and an ample size and play to the chest at its inferior region, what shall we say of the trade of the shoemaker, tailor, and milliner ? Although they are useful and honorable employments, their effects upon those of a slender and delicate make must be fatal. And this is confirmed by the sufferings of eight out of ten of those who labor in these trades. We ask the same question in reference to the confinement of the draw- ing-room and piano, and of the stooping, mincing forms which our fashionable schools teach the finest and the most lovely part of creation. Effects of Lacing.—But in view of the dreadful effects of the above morbid physical state, when it occurs unavoidably, by accident, or seeming necessity, what can we say of her, who, as if sporting with destruction, draws around her, with all her concentrated strength, the suicidal cords ? And this is done most often without the least excuse, for it is the slender and delicate child, in the main, "who delights in playing at this hole of the asp. Indeed, we are at a loss to account for the practice, apart from an injurious effect upon the health, seeing that it is so contrary to the Grecian taste. Their statues of goddesses, and descriptions of the fairest and most noble fe- male forms, associate beauty, strength, and a waist commen- surate with the size of the wide hips and broad shoulders. At least, we should think that the love of ease, liberty and life, would prevent so many from rushing on to years of unutterable wo, or early death. Dear young lady, do you know what you are doing ? If you do not, let an experienced practitioner ten 90 COMMON SENSE. you. You are laboring hard to pile up fuel, to which fire is soon to be set, and which will burn up all your comforts, hopes and joys. I have not spoken of a still more solemn consideration; the sin against the God of nature, who in perfect and matchless wisdom first gave the human form its allotted and majestic shape. I conclude by saying to my own sex, in the language of another, " There is no hope of reforma- tion, till the dear, folly-smitten girls learn that to distort the form by lacing is alike ' criminal, dishonorable, and in bad taste ?" and this opinion our sex may confirm and sustain. But you will doubtless acknowledge all I say to be true, but deny the charge on yourself. Well, I never knew one who did lace too tight—no, never ! All deny it, and I cannotbelieve they all mean to speak untruly; but still, the truth is, you do lace tight, and are deceived, and. I am sorry to have cause to say, that, as a general rule, your mothers are to blame for it, much in the way that a father is to blame for the ruin of a son by drunkenness, who has fed him with spirits disguised in sling or juleps, &c. For instance, she becomes early anxious for your respectful and advantageous entrance into society, and to have every obstacle removed which may lie in the way of your success and pleasure. Foolish woman, for supposing that to effect this, you must follow in the wake of others' folly and destruction. She wants to have your form respectable, and to effect-it, she makes for you a loose but snug jacket, and, if you do not draw it too tight it will feel quite comfortable; but soon you are insensible to its pressure, and it must be a little tighter, to produce the same amount of comfortable sup- port which it did at first for the muscles of the waist, and the ribs and lungs have quietly submitted and yielded to the sur- rounding pressure, until it has become a second nature to their sensibilities (but not to their functions). And so, on it goes by degrees, the pressure increasing by degrees as the size diminishes, and the sensibilities become benumbed. Hence you think not that you lace tight, though meantime one would dread to have his finger retained beneath your corset-strings many hours at a time. The question is not, how much press- ure can you endure, but how much can be practised without the following consequences—viz., without increasing the nat- ural labor of the muscles in elevating the ribs in inspiration, diminishing the size of the waist, and compressing the lungs, producing the necessary effects of such a state ? Or in other words, these organs of sense are not organs of function, and must be considered with reference to the latter. This view leads us to see, that the first ounce of pressure on the ribs is an encroachment on the pulmonary apparatus, whereby extra efforts are required to make amends for its in- fluence. COMMON SENSE. 81 Noble, generous youth, whose bosom glows with manly, gallant fire, and who aspires to be protector and possessor of one who has stolen your admiration, if she be one of those above alluded to, although every other virtue entwine around her, and every grace flows over her, let me invite you to sit down with me, and fully consider the enchantress of your soul, coolly and philosophically, and I will tell you what shall hap- pen to you in days to come ; I will make it plain to you. Turn not away, for I must tell you, since you are about to buy so rich, valuable and costly a property, that there are cheats in such as well as in other things. Since man cannot live on vir- tue, wit, or beauty alone, look for some valuable physical qualities with at least as much care as you would in the se- lection of a much less valuable horse, or other animal pro- perty, because without them the finer and nobler graces cannot luxuriate to advantage. I will now help you, and we will candidly work it out together. She has drooping shoulders and a contracted chest, and that at its base; she seems to breathe wholly at the top, and not at the base of the chest. There seem to be sundry tacklings around her which confine her, and restrict her proper move- ments. The abdomen is thereby contracted at its superior and should be largest region, and the abdominal muscles are forbid to expand and collapse liberally. Let us also now, in imagi- nation, look inward, and see what are the relations existing there. We see that the chest is the smallest at its should be largest part, and the lungs pressed as it were " between two stones," within their bony and relentless case. Thus the lungs are crowded upward unnaturally, and of course the communica- tion between the chest and abdomen very materially dimin- ished, so that in some cases a very large apple could scarcely pass through the skeleton chest into the abdomen; also that the stomach and liver, whose natural and proper places are, to be in perfect apposition with the elevated diaphragm, and so maintained, by the elasticity of the abdominal muscles, are now pinched and crowded downward by the approximating walls of the waist. We also see that by this set of relations the bowels are crowded downward, and made to press on to the organs below, to wit, the urinary bladder, lower bowel and womb. That the bowels rest like a dead weight on the bones below, and thus much enlarge the abdomen in that re- gion, increasing the hardness and compactness of the mass, and producing all the train of evils spoken of in the former part of the work. And as you are looking forward to the conjugal state as the one which is to complete your mutual happiness, let me now be a little prophetic. It is natural ana right to hope for offspring, but suppose 82 COMMON SENSE. your hopes are crowned with prospect, let me point to some of the items which may and will make you trouble, and have made many backs and hearts break. The trying hour ap- proaches, but observe what changes of form and relation must take place, of which all know; but how unlike the former form and relations ! The growing fcetus demands room; it travels upward for it, but what does it meet ? A rack of bones obstructing its free progress, made powerful to do so by age and artificial compression. They separate tardily and imper- fectly, consequently there is over distension at the lower abdo- men, with great pressure, and a crowding and distending at the unyielding waist which is distressing, whereby is pro- duced an improper compression of the tender foetus. In short, in lieu of compression of the body, there is now uniform dis- tension, and the extent and effect of the latter is aggravated by the unnatural amount and application of the former. The con- sequence of which will be, that the undue distension of the muscles will at least be great, and produce great discomfort. The nerves will thereby be more dragged and compressed ; the abdominal organs will have less room and suffer consequently; the circulation in both the large and small vessels will be me- chanically impeded and obstructed, producing engorgement and congestion, accompanied of course urith pain, irritation and fever, with great restlessness; also, general disturbance of the brain, with confusion of mind and dizziness, and oc- casional hysteria and threatened fits. All these contingencies will tend to engender a riot among the susceptibilities of the body, aggravating the common troubles of gestation (or preg- nancy). The next effect of this will be, that much medicine will be requisite, but more especially will she be compelled to resort to bleeding to avert threatening danger and relieve present troubles, and that too, when as to quantity there is no blood to spare, and I can attest, that by prodigality in this re- spect, much injury has been done. How often is it that long before the proper period for relief, the poor patient who has been the child ©f affluence, luxury and fashion, lingered out a living death, and felt that death would be only a sweet re- lease from wearisome nights, an aching heart, and dreadful gloom of mind! This state, which is the result of the force of circumstances, is often fatal to the cherished hopes of the sufferer, and too often to her life also; for every one knows how liable such patients are to be unfortunate in their first and second journey encountering all the dangers of abortion, both present and prospective, which are agreed on all hands to be worse and more hazardous by far than the process of natural labor But we will suppose that the proper period has arrived. when all the natural and artificial efforts are to be made and COMMON SENSE. 83 in which the patient is to feel that the will of Heaven is to be consummated concerning her, whether for life or death—pros- perity in the full realization of her highest hopes, or disap- pointment in the loss or death of the child she has carried so long. At this hour, how does she look upon all the world to be nothing, its fashions, its arbitrary customs, and the respec- table form, and so on! How she. feels that she would ex- change them all for a safe passport through this strait, or even for a mitigation of some of her pangs; and if she has been informed of her former impropriety and its tendency, how will she reproach herself and her mother; how will she pray for forgiveness and an aversion of the consequences of her folly! Poor child, may Heaven grant her prayer, and may the more abundant mercy be shed upon her, and above all, may she be truly penitent, and by her life and influence show that she is restored to reason, duty and a sense of moral obligation, in these respects ! As one who knows and has been a friend and as a father to many, let me describe this crisis, and tell what is the probable prospect. Shrink not nor be offended by this paragraph, for one who loves his race and sympathizes with the afflicted, will not withhold that knowledge for the lack of which many die, because false taste is offended. The birth, if natural, is effected by the combined influence of the womb aud abdominal muscles,—i. e., by their contraction. But these muscles have been habitually compressed, shut in, and forbid that liberty of motion which they should enjoy; consequently their great design in this matter is intercepted. They are now thin, torpid, feeble and unus*ed to action. The womb, also, has been compressed during pregnancy ; besides, there is a sympathy between the muscular fibres of both it and the abdomen. The great influence of this state of things will be, that now they are called on to act in concert with a regu- lar, steady, firm force, they will not do it, they don't know how, besides, they lack the power to do it; therefore, their efforts will be false, lingering, wrangling and inefficient, pro- tracted and wearying, acute and full of pain to tease the pa- tient, but not of effect. The time will be a tedious one, the friends will be anxious, and the patient discouraged and worn out. The terminations to these efforts are quite various, and it is a great matter of gratitude to Heaven, that they so often termi- nate favorably, though at great cost. But too often they ter- minate by death to the offspring, through delay and compres- sion of the brain, or the interference of art, in consequence of labor, and the powers of nature leaving the patient, calling for manual assistance, perhaps by mutilation; more commonly, however, both mother and child are saved, " as by fire." Yet 84 COMMON SENSE. I am compelled to state, that it is not uncommon for the pa- tient to actually sink in the struggle, even at the moment of delivery, being worn down by pain, morbid efforts and ma- nipulations; or else to linger a few hours or days in child- bed, under fever, inflammation, or disorganization, and then —-die, leaving you, young man, alone; thus closing up the drama, and furnishing an epitome of the history oi folly and fashion, alias, a respectable form. This is your chance, at least, if not your prospect; and, sir, let me tell you, that the records of child-bed misfortunes tell with warning accents, that three cases out of four of bad labor, and death of either or both the child and mother, have been the inheritance of the unfortunate, silly, pretty girl, whose form has been made respectable by artificial means ; for Providence seems to make a decided difference between those of native small size and those of an artificial one. Often the smallest pa- tient does well, because every part is faithful and full of vigor, where the largerone, who has confined the ribs and compress- ed the muscles, has done badly. The fault is in the action of the soft parts, and not so much in the form oi the hard, as a general rule. I have addressed you, young man, on this subject, because more could not be said to her; and " though one should rise from the dead, she will not believe." The great misfortune is, that the fatal end does not come when the seed is sown, or blow struck. But the execution is only deferred, and will come, and not tarry; it is like the egg of an insect, deposited in the root of a plant, which will grow and be nourished by the root itself, till it becomes a worm or serpent that will eat out the vitals. Yes, 'tis but the perfect fulfilment of a wise adage, viz., that " excesses in youth are like drafts upon old age, payable at sight, and nothing in the vaults." Learn, then, to be wise, as you love yourself and your country. In the selection of a companion, choose such an one as will enable you to say with Solomon, " He that hath found a wife hath found a good thing, and hath obtained favor of the Lord." Be guided by judgment and discretion, as well as by love, for the latter cannot be enjoyed or perpetuated without a body. And if young men thus act, they practically place their seal of disapprobation on such suicidal practices. Also re- member, that we include in these remarks, though less crimi- nally, those who indulge in a bad form, a curved body, drooped shoulders, retracted stomach, and other things that may be in- ferred from the foregoing remarks. But, gentlemen, I cannot conclude my remarks on this point, without a short notice of a lecture addressed to me, to the fol- lowing import, viz., on who are to blame for the present and former bad taste with reference to form and dress. COMMON SENSE. 85 Said an accomplished and intelligent lady to me, who had heard my severest remarks on the practices and sentiments of her sex on the matter in point, " Dr., I have liked your remarks on the iniquity and folly of our sex; your remarks were not at all too severe ; I said amen to all, and plead guilty also: but I do not think, after all, that you do justice, or your duty." She added, " I need not deny that my anger is always aroused at the anathemas of men on this point, for I do know that though the guilt and practice is with us, the fault and cause is with you, and bitter experience has demonstrated the point to me, and I will convince you. When young," said she, " I was of a remarkable ruddy appearance, and my form was just what it ought to be—round, plump and firm, with a waist above what is fashionable in size. My powers of endurance and strength were great, and the circumstances of my father called for their exercise. My sister was exactly of another form and appear- ance ; she was slender and delicate ; her waist was very small, and, owing to her delicacy and evident lack of comparative physical powers, she had the more education, and performed the less labor. But this disparity (which ought to be, and re- ally was, in my favor), was turned to my very great disadvan- tage and deep chagrin. My mother was ashamed of me, and called me a great hulk, twitting me of it in company. My brothers nicknamed me broad back and large foot. My father heard it, and laughed at it. My mother compelled me to lace, almost to strangulation, to reduce my healthy and comfortable form to the size of respectability. She and the rest of my very near and dear friends made me actually believe that I was not fit for society, and I was truly miserable ; ' wounded in the house of my friends.' When either ladies or gentlemen visited us, they would remark concerning me—' What a fine, lusty, healthful girl you have, or she is;' and of my sister they would say, in blandishing* complacency and approbation—' What a fine figure ; what a beautiful girl your daughter is ;' or, ' You have a beautiful daughter.' My sister's respectable form, in ad- dition to my own hidcousness, brought on her double admiration, and to me cold, withering, consuming slight and neglect, made doubly effective by my keen perceptions and consciousness of deficiency. The consequence "was, that I was agitated, and that I tormented myself by every device to reduce myself to a respectable form; and now my health is ruined by these efforts, practised to please a blind and deluded mother, and simple brothers, and to conciliate the respect of a world that is look- ing around on the spider's webs for something to admire. Yes, my once iron constitution is gone—gone for ever." " And again," she said, " your poets and prose writers, and all others, when they speak of beauty in description, speak of the slender waist that can be spanned, the delicate feature, and 8 86 COMMON SENSE. other evidences of effeminacy, and omens of premature dilapi- dation. By this you see that your sex lay the corner-stone of our superstructure of folly and misery. You arbitrate to us the standards of taste, beauty and respectability, and tell us in a thousand ways that you admire all those physical appear- ances and qualities which you condemn, and for which we are to be condemned ; and we are weak enough to strive after them to please you, or to be able to gain your applause and admiration. We own that we love to be sought and admired, and of course we must come up to your standard of what is admirable, in order to obtain it; and so long as you openly ad- mire that which is not really admirable, women will go on to practise those things. Therefore it is plain (however much we deserve it), that you do great injustice to us when you speak only of our weakness in trying to please you, and to hold us up to ridicule for what you are to blame. " Correct the fountain, and the stream will be pure. Get for your sex consistency, and a correct, tasteful eye and im- agination, and the evil will be quickly remedied by its death, through neglect and want of culture, or soil to grow in." I thought a moment, and felt cut to the soul; I felt her cor- rectness to the very core; and my mistake, and that something new must be done in our tastes and imaginations, our practices and feelings, as a sex, before we could expect to effect what we profess to earnestly desire. Gentlemen, shall this curse, this blight, cast upon us, shall it progress at our instance ? Will we admire that which is unreal, just as we admire a but- terfly, that, " at best is but a caterpillar dressed ?" If not, then let us (if we have any partiality to show on account of native physical endowments) rather lavish them on what is real, and founded in reason and utility; then custom will change its course, its destructive torrent will run upward, or, like the overflowing of the Nile, enrich and bless the world. Then, 0 then, as custom is so potent, so easily directed to good and philanthropic ends, let us seize the helm, and give a proper di- rection and force to it. Then will the world be redeemed, lives saved, and comforts perpetuated to generations yet un- born. Nor let parents who are proud and vain fail to learn some- thing from this view, and remember and practise it. I charge you, as you love your own selves and the bodies and comforts of your dear children, to do them no harm—make no distinc- tion between them on the above ground, nor allow the world to; and, so far as points of physical beauty are concerned let that attainment in it which is real be the matter of choice a. d culture. Morbid Influences on the Voice.—We now proceed to detail in the same mechanical stvle, the several morbid tendencies of COMMON SENSE. 87 a relaxation of the abdominal and dorsal muscles, and of an improper attitude on the varied expiratory functions, as in breathing, talking, hallooing, and blowing upon wind instru- ments. It should be-recollected that we proved, in our physiological remarks on the abdominal and dorsal muscles, that expiration or voice was the result of the contraction of all the muscles on the abdominal organs, all of them being continually well press- ed against each other, so that they always compress the lungs at each contraction, and mechanically express tl^e air, thus producing philosophically, all the varied and sensible pheno- mena of expiration ; and that these effects we call vocal, when modified by the action of the vocal muscles. But what have we got now, while in this relaxed condition and general change of location? Let us see. The muscles are relaxed, the abdominal organs have descended, the diaphragm is thereby inverted, and the chest depressed in the act of speaking. This shows a general and great contrast between the physiological and mechanical relations of the vocal apparatus in the present and former state. We first proceed to examine some of the fundamental laws of motion, and their power. Secondly, to apply these principles to the vocal apparatus and its operations, showing thereby that there is a striking analogy between the construction and ope- rations of both animate and inanimate musical instruments. Thirdly, to show, from thence, what must be the necessary tendency of the now supposed existing morbid relations on the voice and its vehicle. 1st, Of the Fundamental Laws of Motion.—The human trunk may, in most respects, be compared to a bellows, and is gov- erned and moved on much the same principles. We see that the throat, or windpipe, answers to the passive metallic pipe, or noseoi the bellows; that the chest answers to the great vault, or cheek of the bellows, having, like the bellows, no power to contract of itself and expel the air. We also see, that the ab- dominal muscles answer to the handles of this bellows, shut- ting or contracting this vault by their own contraction, com- pressing the furniture within, and forcing it against the lungs, mechanically expelling the air. We also see, that, like the bellows' handle, so are the abdominal muscles, or handles, sit- uated at the most remote and largest part of the bellows or chest, to increase their force of leverage on the chest at its most movable part. Keeping these principles of the trunk's arrangement in view, and the great reasonableness of these relations and operations, we will be prepared to prosecute the investigation. We will now conceive of a tube, or groove, of a very deli- cate texture or tissue, and that it cannot bear roughness 01 88 COMMON SENSE. abrasion with impunity: also, that a ball, or body, is to be pro- pelled from it, and that the following items are requisite for the due effecting of the object, and the preservation of the ap- paratus, viz.:—That we obtain great force by the application of little power; that the body has a simple movement without vibration; that it goes unobstructed to a given point. These three particulars secured, effect the one great object, viz., the due function, and the requisite impunity of the operative part. First, In order to propel any body with great force, by the application of but little power, the propelling power must be applied so as to act in a perpendicular or direct line. This is a common principle in motion, and the reason is, that there is but one opposing force. In the case of the ball in the groove, as here supposed, if the power be applied directly in the rear, the tube undergoes but little concussion, and offers no real op- position, but simply conducts the ball. In this way we get the force, the simple movement, in a straight line, without prodi- gality of propelling power, a compound motion, or concussion of the tube. Thus far all works harmoniously. This effect, we see, is produced by the first principle of motion, i. e., the abdominal muscles below propel the body in a direct line. But should the power be applied obliquely, then more power will be requisite to move the body, because the opposing points of force tend to neutralize their agency; also, the motion of the body will not be simple, but compound or vibratory, by reason of the friction on, and the concussion of, the tube by the oblique forces. By such a process several losses are sus- tained, viz., we incur a prodigality, a waste of expulsive pow- er ; we lose the simple motion, and incur a vibratory one, and the groove of tissue paper is concussed and abraded, tending to produce an increase of its wear and tear. Again; should the expelling force be applied neither directly nof even obliquely, but at right angles, what then ? It is evident, that in such case, all motion of the body would be lost, because the forces would be equal in power, and simultaneous in action, and their combined action would be neutralized: excepting the body were a fluid one, then the effect would be equal on all points. But what would be the effect on the groove, or tube, conveying the body, thus forcibly acted on from all points ? I answer, to produce universal concussion and distension, if the body be fluid or elastic, as the movement would have no given direction, the tendency would also be to rupture the tissue. We are now prepared to see, that except the power act in accordance with the just law of motion, all will be wrong, and tend to mar the machine, and obstruct the object of the process. But further. Let us suppose that the power is applied right, and the body moves right, yet, that there is a curve in the tube COMMON SENSE. 89 near its further extremity, or outlet. What then ? Why, the body will move along its passage as it should, until it comes in contact with the curve, or angle, in the tube, or groove; then it of course will strike at the opposing point. Necessarily the motion will be checked, and a concussion of the whole body will ensue. This would increase the concussion on the tube, and enhance its improper wear. Besides this, the body must start off at the angle of incidence, and take a new course, frus- trating one of our first objects, viz., to send the body to a given and determinate point. Now, however well the body started it matters not, since its course is changed, the movement will be a vibratory and random one. This brings us to see, that beside a correct application of power in the design here re- ferred to, the tube must be straight also to its exit, or, if curved at all, it must be but gently and regularly so. Furthermore, let us suppose that the operation of the power, and the direction of the tube, be right. But its outlet is con- tracted, and is not commensurate with the size of the groove, or the volume of the body that is to make its escape. For in- stance, suppose it to be a loaded cannon, or rifle, with a con- tracted muzzle ; what will the effect be on the gun, and mo- tion of the ball discharged ? The answer is, that the onward force of the ball will be impeded, its motioiLrendered vibratory, and, also, that the cannon or rifle will be liable to burst, for the most obvious reasons. This makes it clear, that three things then are are requisite, viz., a proper direction of power, a straight tube, and an ample outlet for the body being propelled. Now, if the gun or tube be crooked, and the muzzle con- tracted, there will exist a double cause for a wandering move- ment of the body, first by the obstruction at the angle, secondly by the concussion at the mouth of the barrel. These common-place, and, doubtless, preconceded princi- ples being agreed upon and considered, let us proceed to make the application. The windpipe, bronchial membrane, and air cells, constitute, emphatically, a tube of great sensibility and delicacy, bearing improper concussion and abrasion with but poor grace. The air in them is certainly a body, and a very elastic one, and is to be expelled from the lungs, with (at times) considerable force, by the application of but little power, in a manner that will produce the least effect on the delicate tube and membrane. Of course it must be done by a power acting in a direct line with the passage or course of the air, and by the windpipe being straight, that we may have the simple movement. The economy of power, and the proper direction of its application, are admirably executed in the ar- rangement of the abdominal muscles and organs with and on the lungs, lying and acting as they do, directly below the lat- ter, so that when the abdominal muscles (or handles to this 8* 90 COMMON SENSE. living bellows) contract, they at once push against the air, through the diaphragm in a direct line, with little effort pro ducing great effect. This shows us, that the doctrine of the influence of the ab- dominal muscles in vocality lies at the foundation and com- mencement of vocal philosophy. The second law of vocal philosophy is exerted in man's erect posture and elevated head, whereby the vocal tube is straightened, or, if curved, is but gently so, like the true curve of the trumpet This facili- tates the steady and uninterrupted passage of air along the straight and smooth membrane. The third law of motion as applied to vocality, i. e., a free exit of the body without a shock or concussion, is executed by a free use of the mouth in speaking, opening it wide, so as not to allow the teeth or lips in the least to intercept the peaceful passage of the air through them. But should the vocalist not abundantly take his teeth and lips out of the way, though every other department be well performed, the air will be broken in its course, and the whole of the philosophy of its motion be broken np. We will now just sum up, and throw together the action and effect of this combination of organs and principles, supposing that they all act in concert. We now can imagine that all these parts are in their due po- sitions, with the lungs well inflated with air. The abdominal muscles will first contract in a direct line with the course ol the air tube, and, with a gentle force, expel the air with a smooth movement. The air tube is but gently curved, and the mouth is well opened, so that there is no impediment to a gen- tle, still movement of the air, from its starting point in the ail cells, to its escape into the open vault of space. Then, if the vocal muscles of the throat and mouth play supplely and prop- erly on the air as it is thus gently expressed, any variety ol musical or other sounds may be made with the most perfect ease, by merely changing the shape and form of the air as it passes out of the chest and mouth. We will now invert the whole order of the above beautiful design, and see what will be the operative result, viz.:—Let us suppose the body to be drooped or bent, whereby the chest is contracted and the abdomen expanded, i. e., the lower belly; its muscles relaxed, and the true support of the organs re- moved, leaving them pendent from the diaphragm ; the shoul- ders depressed, the chin also, and the air tube curved, of course. That the teeth are clenched or sparingly opened, and' the lower jaw moved but little—the lips all the while acting very stiffly, Next, let us suppose that the performer begins to declaim or sing with vigor, under all the above morbid relations. What will be the several effects and operations on the organs view ing the matter philosophically ? COMMON SENSE. 91 Let us see. In the first place he cannot use the abdominal muscles, for they are already relaxed and ineligible to ef- fective contraction. Of course, then, he cannot apply the power philosophically through them, and therefore must do it through compression of the chest, obliquely and at right angles. This he does by sinking or drooping the shoulders, and con- tracting and depressing the chest. Here the power is applied at opposing points, and of course produces a general con- cussion of the air in the cells and bronchia, and agitation of it among the cells, tending to rupture them, as it is as much pressed downward as upward. By this we see that if there was located a vocal apparatus at the diaphragm, the person speaking in the above attitude and relations could give a double performance at once. The air rushes in every direc- tion, and a portion of it escapes at the mouth, and on its pas- sage goes oscillating and rasping up the throat in different and ragged currents, until it strikes the roof of the mouth, and is thereby again concussed and scattered, as this angle in the passage is acute. By this means, too much of the air will find the straightest and most ready exit through the nose. It next encounters an ivory fortification, by striking against the teeth, which are too much clenched or closed to admit of a ready exit of the air without a morbid movement, for we see that in the case of the cannon or rifle, they will be injured in the simplest manner. This, in the first place, will produce a flat, rasping, jarring and unpleasant voice, even just such au one as we might expect. Another effect must be, that this air now being expressed from all points, with the air tube curved and the outlet contracted, must move in a ragged stream, in lieu of one pure, smooth current, and exert a most injurious tendency on the delicate, sensitive, and moist bronchial or lining membrane of the wind and smaller pipes, mechanically irritating them, jarring them, and acting on this smooth surface much as a hat- ter's bow-string does on the fur, cutting it up into shreds; dry- ing up its moisture and irritating its nerves, inducing a sense of dryness and aching, especially on speaking and singing. Soon the surface is denuded, pimples are raised, and the pa- tient is really a genuine specimen of the popular bronchitis, or throat disease of public speakers; and, indeed, we find that a great majority of public speakers thus afflicted are young and moderate men, who preach by note, with the shoulders droop- ed, the chin depressed, the mouth shut, and the lips scarcely moving at all. But let him, though his throat be very sore, change his attitude and speak from the contraction of the ab- dominal muscles, with the straight tube, open mouth and sup- ple lips, and the voice will change its harsh and flat note for smooth and mellow tones, and the throat will feel better even during the operation. 92 COMMON SENSE. Another important lesson to be drawn from these views has reference to singers, and another to the form and habits of children in school, and their manner of reading and speaking, of all of which we will speak in the practical part of the work. These views are corroborated strongly by this fact, viz.: that almost all broken down public speakers and singers complain much of weakness, and of a sense of goneness at the stomach, pain or weakness of the back, and other general symptoms of a broken down body. And why is it ? Because they are re- laxed, and their mechanism answers to the description of others described in the former part of the work. We have now finished our pathological remarks on mechan- ical principles, and ask, What is the summing up of the whole matter, and what practical use can be made of the subject ? If we have correctly and philosophically treated our theme, may we not infer, in the first place, that it is not only proper, but all important, that the jieople should be instructed in the princi- ples of anatomy and physiology ? Secondly, We infer that most, if not all diseases (providen- tial strokes and pestilences excepted), may be avoided and even cured. Thirdly, That man is not a mysterious being in his animal or material existence, but is mechanically and philosophically ar- ranged, under powers and laws that control the reciprocal ac- tions of all matter, in all relations, whether animate- or inani- mate. Fourthly, That there is, in this mechanical or architectural construction, but one specific constitution and arrangement, which makes man a perfect and efficient machine, securing a healthy set of relations and functions; while a departure, how- ever slight, from this organization, as in an inanimate machine, changes entirely its character, inducing a morbid set of func- tions, or the entire cessation of them. Fifthly, That the vital or moving power of the animal fibre is distinct, originally, from the fibre, and is not susceptible of disease. Of course, then, there must be two physiologies, or, at least, a mechanical one, which is the basis of human develop- ments. Consequently diseases usually commence in the me- chanical part, and are to be cured by mechanical agencies. Sixthly, That there is a class of diseases that are not under the cognizance of medicine—proceeding from a displacement of the organs—and would be aggravated by constitutional treatment. Seventhly, That all the organs from the throat downward are connected together, and all subject to the law of gravitation • all being designed originally to support one another, through the agency of the abdominal muscles. Eighthly, That the morbid relaxation of these latter muscles COMMON SENSE. 93 will necessarily produce a general and ruinous disarrangement or breach of the proper relations between the organs within, from the lower to the upper. Ninthly, That the proper treatment of diseases originating from the above causes consists in the mechanical replacement of the organs in their proper relations, and in attending to such things as will subsequently enable the organs to retain them- selves in this position, by their own inherent power. CHAPTER VIII. SPINAL AFFECTIONS. Spinal Affections.—We have heretofore confined our remarks principally to the truncal organs, showing what was their place and action, and what sustained them in this place and action. We now proceed to speak of what retains man in the erect posture, and of the importance of preserving that posture. In Figure 5 we have a side view of the healthy, proper and phi- losophical position of the human trunk. Observe its form, see how hollow the small of the back, and how its front part juts into the abdomen; then notice how the bone slides back like an inclined plane, until it projects back far behind the small of the back, and then slants forward some, so that the head is set about in the axis of the body; but, if anything, its gravity is thrown in the rear of the axis, or small of the back, when the head is carried upright, as it should be. By this time you will have seen that the small of the back is the pivot of motion, and that its centre is the truncal base or axis of the body. When we take this view of the subject, we see a wise provi- sion in nature for man; for although the back be curved, yet these curvatures come in to aid in the formation and preserva- tion of the erect posture. The bend in the lower portion of the back throws the abdomen forward, out of the axis of the body; but the inclination backwards, in the region of the chest, brings a good portion of the chest behind the axis, and this is emphati- cally so, when the human body stands up in its dignity, with the head erect. Thus we see man stands by the power of balancing. For instance, suppose a stake be stuck in a soft place, and not very firmly; then suppose you hang a small weight from its top ; the stick will immediately fall, because the weight is without the base or axis. But hang two weights, 94 COMMON SENSE. one on each side of the stake, and it will stand firmer than before, not being drawn out of its axis Thus, although by the law of gravitation, the load his trunk continually bears, draws it to the ground, yet if any man preserves his character- istic nobility of form, his erectitude, so nicely is the mass ad- justed, that it only serves to make him stand the more firmly. But in order that man may perform his ordinary duties, he must have the power of accidentally or voluntarily placing his body out of its axis—a peculiar power which can be called up by the will, or instinct, and by which, after the motion, he may be again recovered to and held in the erect posture again. This the muscles of the back, abdomen and sides, effect. What, then, should be the standard posture of the body, and what the relation of all the organs and cavities to each other.' We say that it. should be like as in figs. 1, 3 and 5, so that a line dropped from the face would fall along the front face of the small of the back. In that case the head i.s elevated and set upon the shoulders, and not upon the breast; the chest is thrown out full, the pit of the stomach elevated, the distance from the lower ribs to the hip bones lengthened, and, of course, the abdominal muscles put upon the stretch. Thus the ab- dominal organs are grasped tightly, and thrown more and more up and back into the centre and axis of the body. By this means there is but little purchase or leverage on the back, as all the organs are packed so snugly. This also expands the chest, supports the lungs and heart as well as the abdominal mass, so that they are thrown towards a focus. In this way the abdominal organs are so lifted up, that they cannot encroach upon the bladder, rectum, or womb. What a beautiful struc- ture this is ! What a symmetry and fitness of things in every design of God! We are now prepared to answer intelligently the following question, viz., what influence will a relaxation of the abdomi- nal and dorsal muscles have in reference to the spinal functions and the erect posture ? We reply, that if the muscles relax they let down the bowels; these, falling forward, move out of the axis of the body, producing a leverage on it, and compelling the body to bend, unless the muscles of the back exert an un- usual power to antagonize this leverage. Such a position will allow the organs to draw upon the diaphragm, and produce all the feelings before described. It will also bring the chest, shoulders and head forward,somewhat in the form of an orang outang, thus compressing the lungs, enlarging the abdomen, and, by this means, imposing, instead of an occasional, a per- petual and heavy burden upon the muscles of the back, to keep the body up. Again ; we see, that the small or hollow of the spine is its almost only moveable part, and that when we bend forward or backward, it is through the transposition of COMMON SENSE. 95 this part of the column; consequently, that when we lop or lounge, it is not the chest that has fallen, as seems to be, but, that this pivot or fulcrum of the back has slid backward from under the chest, leaving it to droop, or seem to. This could not have taken place had the primary forward curve at this part been preserved.—See Figs. 7 and 11. To illustrate. We see that the perpendicular posterior line of Fig. 7 runs at quite a distance from the back, the spine in this figure being in proper shape ; but in Fig. 8, the line nearly touches along the whole length of the spine, because the lower spine has receded, and not the upper. To prove this, let any one take the posture of Figs. 7 and 10—and let a friend put the end of his fore-finger against the small of the back, and he will find he cannot droop, but will fall upon his face, feeling a firm pressure from the finger: but let the finger come within only one inch of the back, and he will readily droop, and the back will recede to the finger's end ; proving that if the lower spine keeps its place the upper must of necessity. But our business now, is to find what effect will follow on the spinal phenomena. We see that the body when erect rests particularly on the central (or processes), and not on the broad part of the back bone, and that when the body bends forward, then the press- ure is changed to the body of the bone itself. The different parts coming together, press upon the gristle or cartilage which is between them, and which is very elastic. In the state of the system supposed, the pressure upon these oartilages is con- stant and unnatural. If this is long continued, a tenderness of these will ensue, and an absorption follow, which will bring the rough surfaces of the bones together, producing eventually ulceration, and spinal curvature of a ruinous nature. If this proceed far, it will be indicated by pain in the affected part, and some tenderness on pressure, and perhaps there may be loss of motion in the limbs. This state indicates an inflam- matory action, and requires the usual practice of cupping, leeching, blisters and issues, or tartar emetic sores. But we now proceed to show that this state seldom exists, and that the following mock symptoms are taken for genuine spinal irritation, which are very different, and require directly another treatment. When the body is bent forward, as in Figs. 2, 4 and 6, the spine is nearly straight, and we see that the ligaments that con- nect the bones of the back are put upon a perpetual stretch, and would be liable to become tender. The muscles are now continually called upon for effort, either voluntary or involuntary. This we know must be fol- lowed by fatigue and exhaustion, and just in proportion as they become fatigued, they are obliged to make extra effort to 96 COMMON SENSE. act like other muscles, as in ascending a high steep hill. At first our limbs are capable of the extra exertion required, but they soon flag, and as we near the top we are required to put forth the most powerful efforts to make even a small advance. Let our limbs be compelled to struggle for a great length of time when thus weakened, and they will become tender, trem- ulous, and unable to perform their most ordinary tasks. Thus it is with the muscles of the back. The result is just what we are led to expect. When patients come to me who have indulged for some length of time in a droop-shoulder position, they will generally complain more or less of the feelings pre- viously described, in connection with the following; viz., a constant pain in the back, particularly in the small of the back, generally imaccompanied with inflammation there, although some are often supposed to have it, and are treated for nephritit (or inflammation of the kidneys). They complain also of in- ability to sit erect, and of pain in the breast and stomach when they attempt it. This is generally accompanied with feebleness of the legs, and at times with loss of sense and motion in them. The crooked form of the back, the pain there, and the diffi- culty in the limbs, generally lead to the idea that there is spinal irritation. The physician is pleased to believe that this is the case, as almost every ordinary remedy has been tried without avail. New hope springs up in his mind, for genuine spinal irritation can generally be cured. Accordingly, before coming to me, the spine of the patient has been examined, and being found somewhat tender, the whole train of depleting and irritating remedies are resorted to; but after all, the patient rather grows worse. I examine the spine, and find not spinal irritation, but spinal weakness, and that, generally confined to the soft parts, and not to the back bone. When there is genuine spinal irritation, pressure on the inflamed part will be accompanied with a sudden start, and the patient will generally speak of pain in some part of the trunk. I then commence at one extremity of the spine press- ing each bone successively, inquiring if the pressure hurts " No !" is the answer at first; but presently the patient says, " Y—e—s," or, " it is tender "—" it feels weak ;" but there is no sudden flinching, starting, or outcry, indicating that there is no genuine spinal irritation. In such a case, then, there is a spinal and muscular weaknw and soreness; the cartilages and ligaments are tender, and the muscles, all worn out with continued effort, have become cross and tired. The truth is, that three-fourths of the cases treated for spinal irritation are of this sort, and this explains a great share of our ill-success in these affections. I need say no more by way of illustration upon this subject; COMMON SENSE. 97 the reader will see that there is a wide and perceptible differ- ence between spinal irritation and spinal weakness, and of course that the treatment of the two should be very different, and that what is proper and applicable to one is entirely vain and worse in the other case. Hence, it is evident that spinal weakness proceeds from the loss of balance of muscular action. Spinal curvatures and distortions of the hip and shoulders have become very common; so much so, that one would suspect something more than an incidental cause for it. We see spines curved in the shape of an Indian's bow; like a letter S; bulging out, backwards or forwards ; one shoulder much higher than the other, and also one hip protruding. Now when, and in whom, do we see this? What have been their habits and circumstances of life ? Generally they are females who have been indulged, and have lived luxuriously. They have taken no regular exercise, have not been systematic, but have lived upon romance. They sit at the drawing-table in at least a drooping posture, generally on one hip, and when sitting, let the whole trunk fall out of the axis of the body, putting the muscles of the back upon the stretch. When standing they rest more upon one foot than the other, standing in a perfect twist. Now let us examine this unnatural management in a philosophical point of view. By sitting upon one hip, the axis of the body is changed, and to prevent falling, the body has to bend toward the hip upon which the person sits; of course, then, instead of the axis running down the spine, as it should, it crosses the spine, and (if the person sits upon the right hip) runs from the left shoulder to the right hip, passing through the body. The first thing to be noticed is, the effect of this diagonal weight upon the spine. We see that the spine will now have to sustain a great purchase, and will be bent into a single or double curve, one of which will generally be between the shoulders, pushing one of them out, making it to appear larger than the other, and to appear diseased, when it is well enough, if the spine were but in its proper place ; this shows the futility of binding on brass to compress the shoulder. Again, the other shoulder will be quite low, and it may also be sup- posed to be diseased. The truth is, the muscular power hav- ing lost, its balance, and pulling more on one side than the other, causes the whole difficulty. Let us see how the antagonizing power is lost, and how it acts. When you stand on one foot or lounge on one hip, the muscles of the side on which you stand or sit have to act more than usual, to draw you over and preserve you in a new axis; this draws down the shoulder of the side on which you rest Of course then the muscles of the other side have nothing to do, so they relax and are passive, and this allows the shoulder to be thrown up 9 98 COMMON SENSE. Try the experiment now, reader. Stand upon one foot, ana see if your whole body does not have to lean much to the side on which you stand, and if this shoulder is not lowered, while the other is elevated. Then suppose that this position were to became habitual, how much more aggravated these natural consequences would be In this light may we see the phi- losophical cause of spinal curvatures, drooped or elevated shoulders, with all their results. AVhat is now wanting is, to bring the body back to its axis, and to re-establish an active state of the torpid side, and diminish the action of the already active side. This can only be done by a system of exercises, philosophically adapted to each individual's case. This sub- ject we shall treat more at large in the final chapter of this work. Another not uncommon cause of curvature is, that ladies who are tall are often ashamed of it (ashamed of their glory!) and continually practise a cringing, crouching, or settling of the body, to lower somewhat its.height. The effect of this posture must be evident to you all. Also in those who are even low of stature, the same cause and effect exist. The present system of education for young ladies is abominable. They are taught to be neither muscular nor frank; to look no one in the face, to oberve a sort of Grrecian bend, which is the pink of the mode—a perfect carica- ture on human dignity and symmetry. And here we remark generally, that the present system, or rather no system of physi- cal education, lies at the foundation of most of these formidable complaints, and that until parents wake up to the importance of establishing proper habits in children, and of forming a healthy and physical, system for them, as well as to the cultiva tion of the mind, we shall continue to be a proverb and a bj woid for physical weakness and deformity. PART SECOND. CHAPTER I. THE CURATIVE INVENTIONS AND AGENCIES—BRONCHITIS—WEAK AND UNNATURAL VOICE—TREATMENT AND CURE—AFFECTIONS OF THE LUNGS—SYMPTOMS OF AFFECTIONS OF THE LUNGS—CALIS- THENIC EXERCISES—RESPIRATORY EXERCISES--PALPITATION OF THE HEART—HYSTERIA--HYPOCHONDRIA—DYSPEPSY--CALISTHE- NIC AND GYMNASTIC EXERCISES. The Curative Inventions and Agencies.—With a view to carry out the principles laid down in the preceding parts of this work, we have devised -a mechanical appliance as a curative agency. This instrument is the result of* years of perplexity, anxiety and expectation, until at length it has been brought so near to perfection as to secure the desired object with great facility and astonishing success. We will first speak of other mechanical appliances, with their good and bad tendencies, proved by experience; after- wards we will call the reader's attention to the one referred to above. hi the first place, it is obvious that support applied to remedy the gravitation spoken of in former pages, should act upward and backward unitedly—this being the action of the healthy muscles—without compressing the calibre of the abdominal cavity. Every weak place and no other should be supported, and this should be done in such a manner that no incon- venience or hurt will be experienced. The appliance that most nearly fills all these pre-requisitions is the one most to be de- sired and first to be selected. We will here remark, that the poorest instrument to effect this purpose that we have ever seen has had some good qualities, and has been better than none, even doing much good—so important is abdominal sup- port. The great objection to' the first supports was that they were cumbersome, wearying and irritating by their weight and stuffing; their springs, also, pressed on the different bony pro- 100 COMMON SENSE. minences, tending to produce excoriations. Again, the pads were but two in number, and were immovable, producing fatigue by continued appliance. But their chief deficiency lay in their lack of affording upward support; for this object the front pad was too large, and its outer and inner face stood per- pendicularly, and served to compress the lower belly, and not to elevate it, often confining the pelvic viscera, or lower organs, more than they were before. The upper part of the pad press- ing too much, forced the bowels towards the back, crowding them down, and producing sickness and a sense of sinking at the stomach. The immovable back pad also produced sore- ness by its continued pressure. Other instruments consisted of two pads attached or connected by straps, but these straps brought too much pressure on the upper, and not enough on the lower abdomen; besides, the pressure in an emaciated ab- domen would be as much downward as upward. Other in- struments lift upward, but are irritating, having no springs to increase the flexibility; nor can the pads be changed to relieve the parts, or be materially enlarged or diminished to suit sub- jects of different sizes. Others consist of jackets, or corsets, and some of these, in very many cases, have done great good; but they all lack the general indications and physiological con- structions—they press everywhere, and on all points ; of course, in some places where no pressure is requisite, and where it actually does injury, through its irritation and heat. Besides, they cannot possibly give all the elevating power that is re- quired. The instrument we now present to the reader, as our own invention, denominated Patent Lace, assumes to fulfil the above requisitions, and to avoid the disadvantages of the others in use. We give an explanation of its arrangements and opera- tions. (Sec Plate.) In the first place it consists of a main-spring, adapted to the body so as to touch no bony surface. Next there is a pad of horn, or ivory, made to fit the abdomen in front. This pad is attached to an elliptical and curved spring, making it very easy, and, at the same time, turning it upward, so as to allow the belly to rest upon it. Behind are four pads, all of them on small curved springs: two resting upon the small of the back, and two upon the weak hips. These can be raised or lowered, separated from, or approximated to each other, changing the point of contact, as the patient pleases. Cushions can be applied to the pads by means of the drilled holes, should it be desired. It acts when pressure is wanted, and when the body is in a state of rest, is cool, light and comfortable; it supports all the weak parts, can be accommodated to a diversity of sizes and when well fitted, produces no inconvenience. ' EXPLJlJVjlTrOJV OF FIGURE /.—A A. Mainspring, passing round the body.—B. Bow, passing above and avoidinc the hip — C C Front pad, at the lower abdomen, looking backward and upward, lifting, not pressing, the body.—D. Elliptic spring, which gives flexibility to the pressure, and an upward action.— E. Perpendicular curved spring, that gives the upward action to the pad.—F F. Pads supporting the weak hips on limber springs.—G G. Pads supporting the back opposite the kidneys, and can be moved up or down, separated or approximated, or be shoved to right or left, to accommodate different sizes or spinal curvature. There are small holes left in nil the pads, through which cushions may be stitched ; but this is almost never done, as the springs are so limbet, ai Never eat within three hours of going to rest:—better fast. Thirdly, of rest or sleep. On this point I shall only say, re- tire early, and rise early. Sleep on a mattress, and not on or under feathers. Fourthly, of exercise. Upon this point much should be said, but it is not within the scope of this work to be prolix or volu- minous on any point. I simply remark, that to be active in body and mind is all important and imperative, if you intend to be cured as well as relieved; for this is the great guaranty to energy, activity of fibre, and nervous influence. The first exercise needed, is for the weak abdominal mus- cles, and the motion of the abdominal organs ; thus restoring both the support and the movement of the organs. This can- 12* 138 COMMON SENSE. not be so well effected in any way, as by exercise on the body, rather than by the body operating on something else. Mr. Halsted, of New York, established the most successful and rational treatment on this score that is extant. It consisted in laying the patient on his back, and kneading him violently some two or three times a day. Also, by placing the hands at the lower belly, and violently elevating and depressing them, so as to shake the whole abdominal furniture within. These two exercises are to be increased in violence by degrees, until you can pommel the abdomen with great force. In conjunc- tion with the lace I have never known constipation, tenderness of the abdomen, or indigestion, that is, torpor of the stomach, to resist the influence of this violent exercise upon the abdo- men ; indeed, almost immediate relief is generally experienced. While on this head, I would speak favorably of stimulating baths, and the vigorous use of the flesh brush, or a crash towel. As to general exercise, pertinent and important directions might be multiplied, but I shall be brief, only wishing to be distinctly understood, that activity is indispensable. Walking.—This exercise, though very useful and impor- tant, does not answer the end proposed, especially as it is re- sorted to as a remedy by those oi sedentary habits, as ministers, lawyers, or students, who have not the ordinary exercise for the muscles of the arms and trunk. This exercise only gives exercise to the legs, or locomotives, and but very little to the muscles of the trunk, the very place where it is especially requisite. It fatigues the limbs, often without providing energy. Akin to this, is riding in a very easy carriage, where no ex- ercise really is given, through the elastic movement of the springs. There is no jolting, concussion, or shaking; and the principal benefit derived from this sedentary exercise, is the change of scene and air, which is not inconsiderable. I there- fore recommend walking to be practised, of course, and not to be omitted, but not to be relied on as sufficient. I must re- commend horse, rather than carriage exercise; and let the horse have some movement not calculated to lull one to sleep; I prefer a trot to any other gait. The patient will, at first, ex- perience pain, but will soon endure it with pleasure. But if he prefer exercise on wheels, select a lumber wagon, or one that has some jolting movement about it that makes the whole system shake. The advantage of this is obvious, and very great. Calisthenic and Gymnastic Exercises.—Swinging by the hands from a rope, jumping the rope, sawing wood, chopping or threshing, all in moderation, are excellent, in lessons of one- half an hour's duration, increasing as you can bear it. But many may fear that we wish to urge the necessity of work COMMON SENSE. 139 and therefore demur against the above directions. To such I would say, that it matters not to me or you whether you work or play, so that the proper amount of exercise is enjoyed by every muscle or organ; and, to any who have a special re- pugnance to work, would recommend calisthenic and gymnas- tic exercises. I can conceive of no excuse for the neglect of these exercises, as they (especially the former), are within the reach of all. In a previous chapter I have given a few simple exercises in calisthenics, which I urge upon all to use with vigor, on retir- ing to, and rising from rest. I also impress upon every father the benefit that will accrue to his son by permitting him daily to practise in a gymnasium. These exercises give energy to every fibre, and great beauty, rotundity and symmetry to the body. But let not the dyspeptic think to do up all his exercise at once, and then, by over-fatigue, frustrate the design through his indolence; but let him make up his mind to become aman of system and order in his exercise. In this way he will love it, and prevent by it a return of the disease, instead of barely obtaining relief. Indeed, let the dyspeptic know that he has entailed upon himself this malady by bad habits, among which (as a general rule), indolence, in some respect or other, and indulgence in appetite, stand pre-eminent, and that he must travel back the very way he has come, in the use of a proper quality and quantity of diet, partaken in a proper way, and at a proper time. Next he must know that he must reform in the kind of indolence he has indulged, and that it is the work of time and patience, for which money cannot stand as a substi- tute. Also, let such remember, that-no one thing, however good, is to be depended on for the entire cure; but that the whole range of means, as indicated by the facts in each case, are to be patiently and judiciously employed. We now proceed to detail, faithfully, a few of many cases of the different degrees and varieties of this malady. We shall do this honestly, and only with a view to establish a fact, and to bring that fact into use, to the incalculable advantage of the afflicted. Case 1. Mr. C, of Philadelphia, was brought up to the business of printing. From boyhood he was dyspeptic, so that the family were often disturbed at night with watching, for it seemed that his distress would destroy him. Near the age of twenty-one he left his vocation and went into other business, not that best calculated to restore him. I saw him when about the age of thirty, he having returned home, unable to attend to business. He was a mere wreck of a man; his flesh gone, his skin and extremities cold. His form was nat- urally straight, but now it was crooked; his shoulders humped 140 COMMON SENSE. and drooped; his chest contracted ; his stomach sunken and retracted, or gone, and his abdomen very soft and fiat in its upper region, but hard and tumid at its base, as in Fig. 4. The tenderness, or sense of pulling or tightness, was severe at the stomach; the same was also the fact at the lower belly, accompanied with swelling. His constipation was surprising. He could not sit comfortably without lounging on the sofa. His stomach refused almost everything. But his more trouble- some peculiarities were, the most intolerable gloom or melan- choly. He felt a perfect aversion to seeing, much more to con- versing with his friends, and his answers were monosyllables, and irritable at that. He was cross and perfectly misanthropic. He said that he had often put off all important business, be- cause it was too great an undertaking to go up stairs for ink. But I cannot tell all his feelings and actions ; he was anything and everything that a miserable dyspeptic could be. The piles were exceedingly tormenting to him also. It would be almost impossible to enumerate the variety and amount of medical treatment he had received, but all to no purpose. He had become disgusted with the profession, and would not endure interrogatories from them concerning his complaints. In this situation, the lace was applied. In one moment he looked up and said, " That does touch the spot." I directed him to wear it a few days on trial. But soon he left the city. In about one month he returned, looking and acting like a new man; his countenance was bright, his eye looked brilliant, and his manners were courteous and social. He passed evenings now cheerfully in the presence of the family. On first return- ing, he drew up his chair to me and said, " I have the pleas- ure of bearing testimony to the efficacy of your lace; I have shown it to several, and they were like to take it from me." His appetite was improved ; his strength much increased; the tenderness of his stomach diminished, and the enlarged, tumid state of the lower abdomen nearly removed. Case 2. Mrs. T., Pennsylvania, married, aged forty, had been medicated eighteen months for dyspepsy. She was emaciated and relaxed beyond measure, and was tired of the profession, and of life also. Her form was that of Fig. 4, emphatically so. The chest was perfectly retracted and stom- ach very much depressed—said it was gone. On sitting up had a tendency to faint, from.the "pulling" at the stomach; could eat but one or two articles, and that in the recumbent posture, for on eating erect, the load or weight was so distress- ing that she was compelled to take to the bed immediately, to be relieved. In this case the atrophy, or laxity of the abdom- inal fibres seemed to be extreme, so that I grasped a handful of the integuments with ease. COMMON SENSE. 141 The lace was adjusted to this lady, and to my surprise, she arose, and, in the act of rising, exclaimed, " Why, my stomach is filled up." She walked to the fire, at first very crooked and cautious, as usual, as though she would fall to pieces, but soon stood erect; then sat and conversed cheerfully, for the space of three-quarters of an hour, which she informed me she had not done for five consecutive minutes, for six months, previously. Her appetite immediately improved, and she could eat ordinary food, in the erect posture, and sit up during its digestion. She soon went into the air, and rode out to some advantage. The dizziness of the head and gloom of spirits were dissipated, and as her husband said to me, they had " different times at their house" after that. The change in her actions and appearance was astonishing, and produced much affect on the mind of the community. Very many are the cases whice I might bring forward in de- tail, but they are all similar in their description and success. Suffice it to say, that in no case has there been a failure. Nor do I believe there ever will be one, where there is no organic lesion, and where all the above remedial agents are judiciously used. I content myself with the relation of two more cases, and leave the reader to his own. cogitations. Case 3. Mr. E., of New York city, a young man who grad- ually declined, and became horribly dyspeptic : when he called to see me he was afraid to look or to speak, he thought him- self so worthless. He had no confidence in himself or his friends; no peace nor hope; all was black without and within; what he ate, he " watched to see if it went to the right place." Constipation, despite of medicine, reigned; from his head to his hips, he felt a sense of weight hanging or dragging, or pull- ing at the stomach, sides, faintness about the chest; his voice was very effeminate, and tremulous and hesitating. Said he wanted to die. Had done all that a distressed man could do, and to no avail. I examined his frame, and found his stomach sunken, abdomen pendulous and hard at its base. He was continually disposed to sit lounging on one hip, or doubled up to prevent a sense of bearing and vacancy at the stomach. The lace was applied. He felt better, and his voice was stronger be- fore he left the room. In a few days he called, said his bow- els were regular, perfectly, could eat like others, with impunity —had returned to his business. His countenance also told the change as plainly as his tongue. Case 4. Mr. M., a Swede, was returning to his country for his health, called to see me. His case was about exactly as the one above—all was gloom, and despair in his appearance; movedc arefully to prevent jolting ; said he felt great weakness in his breast, sides, stomach and bowels ; was perfectly costive ; had no energy. I saw his form was like Figs. 4 and 8, with 142 COMMON SENSE. the lower belly distended with flatus, sounded on snapping it with the finger. He applied the lace, and nothing else, felt comforted before he left the room, returned the next morning and was much changed, friends had inquired what was the matter, said three hours after he left, the bowels moved freely with much wind, from that day said no man could do more business than himself—energy returned, and cheerfulness of spirits. Reader, I have not exaggerated, nor colored, nor even come up to the declarations of the patients themselves. But all cases of dyspepsia are not thus happily and suddenly benefited, in some it is more general; and in a very few cases—not bene- fited at all. The truth is, the lace should be tried by all, and seconded if necessary by constitutional and hygienic influences. We are here only pleading for a proper consideration of this principle among other things. CHAPTER II. AFFECTIONS OF THE LIVER—DYSENTERY AND CHRONIC DIARRHEA— CHRONIC PERITONITIS, OR GENERAL TENDERNESS OF THE ABDO- MEN—CONSTIPATION OF THE BOWELS—PILES OR HEMORRHOIDS- PAIN IN THE LEFT SIDE, OR CHRONIC INFLAMMATION OF THE SPLEEN—RETENTION AND TOO FREQUENT DISCHARGE OF URINE —AFFECTIONS OF THE SPINE—CASES SHOWING THE SUPERIORITY OF THE LACE OVER THE BRASS CORSETS—EFFECTS OF THE LACE ON WEAK CHILDREN—HABITUAL COLIC—INFLUENCE OF THE LACE DURING PREGNANCY—THE INFLUENCE OF THE LACE IN CHILD- BED--THE USE OF THE LACE IN UTERINE HEMORRHAGE AND PROFUSE MENSTRUATION—LEUCORRHCBA, OR WHITES—CEDEMA, OR SWELLING OF THE LOWER EXTREMITIES--VARICOSE VEINS- OBESITY OR FATNESS—THE USE OF THE LACE ON SUBJECTS PRE- DISPOSED TO AND AFFLICTED BY HERNIA OR RUPTURES--PROLAP- SUS UTERI. Affections of the Liver.—This term also is very indefinite, and is daily much abused, as it really expresses varieties of real diseases, and is often applied to states where it does not belong, and consequently much mischief is done by prescribing for a liver affection, when, probably, the morbid sensation and affec- tions of the liver are but the reflected effects of remote causes, which are unsuspected. It may be said to cause dyspepsy, 01 COMMON SENSE. 143 to be the effect of dyspepsy: or it may exist without any con- nection with it. My present object is only to touch on those cases where it is the result of, or accompanied by, disarrange- ment, qjc a descent of the lower organs, leaving the liver sus- pended, in lieu of being supported; thus necessarily and very materially changing the relations and state of the liver, accord- ing to views presented in foregoing chapters of this work. Or, in other words, I wish to show, that not half the cases of supposed liver complaints are such in reality, but only a func- tional derangement, caused by general, mechanical and tangi- ble infringement on the sensible, and consequently, on the in- sensible properties of that organ. Should the above opinion be practically true, is there not a fearful amount of medication bestowed upon diseases that are meclianical, and not under the cognizance of" medicine ? Is there not thus terrible injury done ? The following cases, in con- nection with the reasoning of this whole work, will show this alarming fact. Case 1. Mrs. L., of Philadelphia, had for twelve years been under treatment of a very active character, for an affection of '.he liver. For years she was salivated several times, and bled once a month. Her form was such as you may imagine it to have been, viz., drooped, curved, and relaxed in every part. Naturally beautiful, her countenance showed that she, in her primal days, was very interesting, but now it expressed a general flabbiness and laxity. The abdomen was perfectly re- laxed, and inverted as to shape ; the stomach had no tone, and was very much retracted. She had, for the twelve years, complained of pain in the right side and shoulder. These, together with the other usual symptoms, indicated, as was supposed, liver affection, for which she was treated, and through which it is rather wonderful that she should live. She was well informed, and very intelligent. She was con- stantly declaring that she had no liver complaint. Her doctor would say, " Child, what do you know about it ?" Sometimes there was tenderness of the liver, and sometimes not; more generally she was inclined to lean toward the affected side, and to press upon it, receiving thereby some relief, indicating that there was no primary inflammation, either acute or chronic. She gave for her reason that she had no liver complaint, " that her liver did not feel sick," but that it felt as though " it was hanging from where it was hitched," and had done so for twelve years. This was eloquent, because it expressed the fact as it was. The pain being occasioned by the tension of the hepatic ligaments from the diaphragm and convex surface of the liver, occasioning not a severe, darting, pungent, or acute pain, but a dragging, hanging, or pulling and weighty sensation; the 144 COMMON SENSE. occasional tenderness being accounted for only by the irritation induced by this unnatural position of things. On placing my hand at the lower abdomen and back, giving the abdominal mass an elevation toward the stomach, she said, " That hanging from where it is hitched is gone," and "that the side was perfectly easy." The lace was applied, and the permanent result may be guessed at; viz., that she was able to go about with comfort, when before she could not leave her room. Though the greatest names in Philadelphia had been her attendants, yet she could scarcely speak with patience of them, in view of all that she had suffered, when her case was so simple. This case is a host of itself, and is a just representation of a majority of the cases of common liver complaint, and exhibits the difference between real and apparent liver affections, and also between the proper and the popular treatment of the same. But we pass on to give one more of the many cases which we have relieved by the lace. Case 2. Mrs. H., of Ct., had for years complained of almost everything. She had an incessant cough, pain in the back, swelling of the feet and legs, pain in the stomach, aud great tenderness in the right side. These are the only symptoms necessary to mention; others there were, embracing an almost endless variety. She seemed fast sinking into the grave, and was unable to walk beyond a very few rods a day. She came to consult me—said that some of her doctors decided that she had dropsy, some consumption, some spinal disease, others dyspepsy, and others still liver complaint; but it was concluded that a livei affection was her disorder. Her form was miserable; the whole truncal relation was disarranged as in figure 4. It is therefore easy to see why some said dropsy, dyspepsy, con- sumption, spinal disease, &c.; because there were, indeed, symptoms of each and all. But there was a mechanical cause that would induce all of the present appearances. I should add, that, in connection with the above, she was borne down with the most oppressive nervousness, gloom, grief and des- titution of earthly and religious comfort, that I ever saw. I inquired if the pain in her side was very severe, deep-seated, or sharp ? or if the side was hot, or painful on pressure ? She answered me " no" in every case, excepting that sometimes it was sore to the touch. She said the pain, in the main, was dull, dead, heavy, hanging, dragging, or pulling, causing her to lean to that side and press it with her hand. The lace was applied, and in less than one minute, she arose, and peace and tranquillity were in her whole countenance. She drew a, full inspiration, said she could breathe easy, her stomach was sup- COMMON SENSE. 145 ported, could speak without pain (and even laughed), her back felt better, and as to the side, the weakness and pain were gone. She left the house feeling like a new being, and on the next day rode forty miles with ease. With reason the neigh- bors wondered at the change. This effect was only the natural tendency of the support The organs were all lifted up, thereby relieving the female or- gans below, and supporting the intestines, liver, stomach, spleen, heart and lungs. Or, in other words, the whole wheels of the machine were put and kept in place, the nerves of organic life were pacified, and went on with their wonted functions. I shall rest these views on affections of the liver here, adding one single remark, viz., that jaundice, in some of its forms, should always have the lace tried, as a stimulant to a torpid, or an anodyne to an irritated liver. Dysentery and Chronic Diarrhcea.—In speaking of these often potent and distressing diseases of adults and children, I mean not to lay down a system of treatmeut for them, but to offer and impress some suggestions. It is well known that there are many causes which produce diarrhxa and dysentery suddenly, without any reference to any displacement of the organs, and that they require a treatment which operates with philosophi- cal adaptation to the cause or the state of the system. But it is also evident that if they continue to rage, whether chronic or acute, for days or weeks, they must diminish the volume of the viscera, and that, of course, they will recede from the ab- dominal walls, by this means depriving themselves of support, and consequently will fall to the bottom of the belly, producing the same suspending and dragging sensations that a relaxation of the muscles always causes. This also removes the stimulant or tonic influence of the muscles, pressing on the viscera. Now, in view of the doctrine of this work, and in view of its developments of the weak and irritable state of the stomach and walls, and of the nerves of organic life, is it not plain to see that there must be a wrant of support, or a serious and irritating effect produced, causing all such patients to bend forward, walk with caution, or lie coiled up in bed to prevent a sense of dragging or tension at the stomach, and of pulling, generally, and of weight at the lower belly ? Would not this state be just calculated to keep up or perpetuate all the characteristics of these diseases ? The following instance will show the truth of our remarks. Case 1. A certain vessel in the East India trade had her crew indiscriminately attacked with dysentery. Those who survived were left with a continual discharge of watery stools. What they ate was not digested, but carried away whole, after remaining but a short time. The dejections were thin and mo- 13 146 COMMON SENSE. dorous, and were ejected by a spnsrcodic effort of the muscu- lar coat of the bowels. So frequent was this, that they " went about almost in a state of nudity." There was not one left to stand before the mast, and they were forced to drive before the wind. It seemed as though life could continue in them but little longer. They had no capacity of abdomen, and the most they complained of was, a faintness at the stomach and sense of weight from head to foot. From some reason or other (perhaps instinct), one man put on a Russian belt, and was able, on that day, to do some things about the ship. He told his doctor that he had been in trouble but eight times that day, and said he felt stronger. A belt was then placed upon every sailor, and they lost no more of the crew; the plague was immediately dried up. This instance is full oi instruction, induction and inference. First. It shows that after the acute state of dysentery is over, if the disease do not cease, the patient should be supported by a lace, lifting upwards and backwards, maintaining the proper apposition of all the parts—consoling them by mutual support, quieting their nerves, and taking away every tangible difficulty. Secondly. It shows that in old and severe diarrhoea the same indications will prevail and should be carried out, and that we should never wonder at our ill-success, until a proper support has been used, in conjunction with other appropriate remedies. But my attention will now be directed to cholera infantum. May not these little sufferers be relieved by support ? I there- fore recommend that a swathe be applied to all of the above cases, and if it is indicated or admissible, I advise the sprink- ling thereon something stimulating to aid in the indication. As children generally have fuller abdomens than adults, per- haps a flannel swathe will do, without a lace ; but in adults, the swathe does not lift enough ; they require a lace to counter- poise the downward pressure of the organs. Chmnic Peritonitis, or general tenderness of the abdomen.—This is common to dyspeptics and hypochondriacs, or sedentary people. It is generally characterized by somewhat of a tumid abdomen (especially at its bottom, as in figure 4), and tender- ness felt on walking, the patient being very careful to step softly, to prevent concussion. He carries his abdomen in his hand, leans forward when he walks, and complains of some prickling pains, ever and anon. This disease has too often been treated by bleeding and cupping, with counter-irritation, in conjunction with cathartics, but without success. Now, what is the pathology of this state of things? Why, look and see. The belly is tumid, the abdominal contents are pendent, and the peritoneum is put on the stretch. This membrane is very vascular and irritable, and illy calculated to sustain this weight with impunity. Its surface is extended, an undue quantity COMMON SENSE. 147 of blood is thereby invited to it, creating heat, tenderness and pain. The muscles are relaxed and permit this descent, and the bowels lie a dead weight on the lower ligaments and the bones of the pelvis. They have thus fallen below the axis of muscular support, so that if the muscles do contract in this condition, they will only press down the bowels more and more. Also, the elliptic action of the muscles, whereby the bowels are gently lifted up, is lost, and they now sink like a dead weight, subject to concussion on the slightest motion of the body, producing the sensation of pain and bearing down at the bottom of the belly, and of pulling at the stomach. This shows that a great share of the supposed cases of functional affections of the peritoneum are not such, directly, but merely mechanical displacements. I have seen the most astonishing relief from such affections, which had been intoler- able for many years, immediately given by the use of the lace, operating, as one might suppose, merely by changing the re- lations and bearing of the organs and parts. I will not adduce particular cases here in illustration of the above view, because that almost all the common cases of pro- lapsus, or dyspepsy, are attended by this affection, and are all relieved. I therefore regard the above affection only as an effect, not as a disease ; as a general rule one that does not admit of a specific treatment, but will be relieved by attention to the general mechanical state. Constipation of the Bowels.—This malady is generally present, and helps make up the aggregate sufferings in dyspepsy. But, nevertheless, I choose to consider it as a distinct affection, as it may exist without the other phenomena of dyspepsy, or even be the very cause of them. Constipation implies an improper extension of the faeces, and an imperfect evacuation of them ; but not a deficiency of them. What is its pathology ? Let us see ? In the first place, we find most constipated patients somewhat of the form of fig. 4, with the stomach retracted, the size of the abdomen inverted, tumid and hard at its base, the abdominal muscles relaxed, the original flexible pressure lost, the common motion to the viscera gone, whereby the vital action of the organs in assimila- tion is destroyed, or depreciated. Of course the secretions will be deficient and imperfect, and the muscular coat of the intestines will be torpid from the same cause. The reader will also see that the visceral mass (a mass of organs) is now- resting, to a great extent, on the lower, large bowel, where it passes into the pelvis, and that it is thereby shut up, and the decent of the faeces mechanically impeded. By this means the colon, or large bowel, will be largely distended, its secretions being absorbed by the heated mass, the folds of the lining mem- 148 COMMON SENSE brane are torn open, and the whole is thrown into an infelici- tous state for the process of defecation. The question now is, is it medicine of any kind that will cure this affliction, or do anything more than gain temporary allevia- tion ? Surely medicine cannot cure such a case. For it is evident that two things are necessary, viz., the mechanical replacement of the organs, and the increase of nervous energy; and it is also plain that the latter will be effected by the accomplishment of the former, through the pressure of each organ against the other, by the power that elevates the whole. I therefore say, that, let the costiveness be ever so bad, we have no business to attempt a cure by any constitutional remedy, previous to having applied a lace, or some other efficient mechanical appliance for restoring the original and mutual relations among the organs. I shall therefore not prolong my remarks on this subject, but simply say, that abdominal elevation and support are the philosophical and rational, as well as successful, applications for constipation of the bowels, in every degree and variety of it. Very many have been the cases that have tested this principle, and none of them have failed; and should this be true (as it is), and be univer- sally .known and applied, who can tell the result to mankind.' Subjoined are a few cases among many, which I say honestly, may be considered as fair representations of all others where the lace has been tried. Case 1. Mr. C, of Connecticut, a man of great intellect, had for many years been so afflicted with costiveness that it was common for him to pass eight or ten days without an alvine evacuation^ His feet were always cold, his head always hot, dizzy, confused and pressed; his mind had become much im- paired, so that he ceased to write, argue, reflect, or transact any business but of a bustling kind out of doors. The com- munity even whispered it about extensively that C. was fail- ing, and becoming imbecile and childish. He told me that he thought so himself, and was afraid of idiocy or insanity. He was very irritable and irascible, gloomy, hypochondriacal, and had thoughts of suicide. His abdomen was tumid and indo- lent, large at its base and very hard. The lace was applied; in one moment he said he felt better at his stomach and head, and was exceedingly happy for some days; after which, for some time, I did not hear from him. When he afterward came, said he, " I thought I was going to die. My abdomen became tender, and the lace put me in torment. I concealed it, and determined to stick it out; but at length could not bear the weight of my clothes. Finally, I was suddenly called to the stool. This was followed by a most violent fmcal efflux, and upon this the tenderness subsided and the bowels went on en- joying a daily evacuation. The coldness of the feet, and heat, COMMON SENSE. 149 confusion and throbbing of the head ceased, and the mind be- came vigorous and flexible." This case shows that the pressure, finally, but by degrees, excited in the bowels a perfect storm, because they had been so very low that an ordinary stimulus could not produce an ordinary excitement, and therefore when it did come it came like a whirlwind. This effect was uncommon, but perfectly in keeping with the circumstances of the case; and even had the case not terminated well, and the inflammation been a morbid effect, the natural tendency of the lace, it proves a some- thing, viz., its power to produce an effect; and if" we can prove an effect, we can prove a favorable one by modifying the cir- cumstances of the application. The end of this case was very satisfactory. Case 2. Mrs. F., of Ct, married, aged about 31, a teacher. Seldom had an evacuation oftener than once per week. Her head ached always, and she experienced all the other affec- tions of the head usual in such cases. She also complamed of an intolerable weight at the pubes, and great tumidity of the abdomen there. She had for many years been afflicted, and every female derangement was attendant upon her, so that she could not stand without resting one foot upon a stool or chair. The lace was applied in her case, and in a moment she ex- perienced relief from every symptom but that of costiveness. She afterwards informed me that from that day she had been happy in every bodily respect; that the costiveness was en- tirely removed, and she felt as though a new life was before her. Case 3. Mr. F., of Ct., a tailor, was dyspeptic to a great ex- tent. Emaciation and constipation were very predominant in his case. He knew nothing of the privilege of natural faecal evacuations, and was harassed with every feeling and temp- tation that any poor hypochondriac and dyspeptic could have. I hesitated about applying the lace, as it seemed that he hardly had abdomen enough to support, but on its application, he found immediate relief. His bowels were perfectly restored, their daily evacuation was set up, and his health, appetite, rest and mind, all returned to their wonted state. Case 4. Mr. R., Ct., had for twelve years been so severely afflicted by costiveness that when anything passed him it seemed like " matter" (as he termed it). He was meantime afflicted with the most dreadful gloom and melancholy. He endured every kind of treatment from many physicians, but still grew worse. His case excited universal sympathy and regret. The lace was applied to this patient without much hope, but to my astonishment, his own, and that of all who knew him, he was relieved entirely—cured from that day, and resumed 13* 150 COMMON SENSE. his wontet vigor and cheerfulness. It was a matter of com- mon notoriety and wonder throughout the neighborhood. I considered this case among the great triumphs of the pnnci- pie, and so great was his gratitude and confidence in the sys- tem, that he rode from one village to another to tell those of his cure who were similarly affected. Case 5 Miss F., Vt., aged 20, had always lived a sedentary life, and was now broken down entirely. Her bowels were very constipated, and her abdomen pendulous. This patient suffered everything that any one could from the direct and re- flected effects of constipation. The lace at once relieved every symptom, and restored perfect regularity of peristaltic action, from the day it was applied, Case 6. Mr. C, of Vt., aged 40, Avas habitually costive, without any regularity at all in that respect. The lace was ap- plied to him for other affections, which were relieved ; but he said that he was now compelled to pay daily attention to the calls of nature, since wearing the lace. But why multiplv cases, there is a sameness in them all; hundreds of them are at hand, and of the most aggravated character, all of which the above truly represent. Of Piles or Hemorrhoids.—This is a most distressing malady, and is of more common occurrence than is supposed. It should be placed along side of costiveness, as eight-tenths of the cases of the piles accompany or follow costiveness; and indeed, we have shown, in the pathological part of this work, that constipation explains the usual rationale of piles. This we here repeat in short, before we proceed to the treatment, and detail of cures. We find in constipation that the mucous membrane is dis- tended and irritated by the foreign mass, which is hard and dry, inducing congestion in the lining membrane. We notice also, that in the exit or expulsion of the mass, while the mass and membrane are in a dry state, there must be a forcing down of the membrane, a tearing open of its folds, and a thrusting of it into the world before the excrement. This membrane. at first, may be drawn back before the sphincter muscle (muscle contracting the anus, or outlet of the bowel) con- tracts upon it, but soon it will lose its tone, become congested and relaxed, and be prolapsed at every defecation, or evacua- tion (and perhaps between), upon the slightest straining. To aid in this, the bowels are pressing down on the rectum, oi lower bowel, continually bearing it down, and perpetuating the tendency to itsJnversion. By this pressure, also, the veins returning the blood from the intestines will be compressed, producing an enlargement of them. If this state exists long, there will arise tumors on the mucous membrane, which will be shut out of the body by the sphincter muscle, or anus, which COMMON SENSE. 151 will be very sore, and often require an operation. Now, what are the indications of cure ? We say, that they are obvious, viz., to take the weight off from the bowels by raising them up; to restore activity by pressure, and draw back the re- laxed rectum by the elevating power of the lace; thus, when at stool, the bowels may be rested upon the pad of the lace, and not upon the rectum. I do aver that eight cases out of ten will be cured or relieved by this means immediately, or very 60011, and that no one need wonder why he is not cured, till he has tried the lace. I subjoin some faithfully reported cases, as representatives of numerous ones that have been treated by the lace. Case 1. Dr. Kellogg, of Pa., who was afflicted by bilious or spasmodic colic habitually, until he was broken down, as in fig. 4. He was unable to ride without a recurrence of it. He applied a lace. His abdomen before was peculiarly tumid at its base, and tender; the stomach retracted and sore, and the waist diminished. On the evening of the first day after its application he called to say that he had done more rid- ing that afternoon than he had done for months, and had accomplished it with perfect ease. But he stated that what most surprised him was, that he had been, for the last six months, so seriously afflicted with the piles that it was tor- ment for him to ride, but that he had not felt the least symptom of it that day. Moreover, six months after he in- formed me that he had not been visited by them. The idea was new to me; but, on reflection, I saw the reasonableness of the thing, and from that day instituted a set of experiments on that point, expecting that something of importance would be the result, in which I have not been dis- appointed. Case 2. Mr. C, of Philadelphia, who had labored for very many years under an aggravated dyspepsy, by which he was brought near the grave, was also afflicted with piles, to his great inconvenience, and had been for many years. This gentleman made trial of the lace, and other physical remedies for relief from his complicated complaints, in which he succeeded, and found that the piles were among the first difficulties to give way. His was an obstinate case. Case 3. Miss E., Vt., milliner, among other female difficul- ties, was sorely afflicted with piles, so that to sit was often impossible. Her bowels were always very costive, producing the usual long train of afflictions consequent on that state. This lady applied the lace, and was immediately relieved of all her afflictions, but more especially of the piles. Judging from her own expressions, she was about entirely relieved. Case 4. Mrs. G., Vt., aged forty, had been an old and ha- bitual sufferer from piles; they were constant and very pain- 152 COMMON SENSE. ful. The constipation of the bowels was great, and aggra- vating in many respects. This lady applied the lace, and, notwithstanding she was of so very irritable a constitution, and so restive that she could not bear the pressure of a gentle lace for more than two or three hours at a time, she declared, that, from the hour of its application, she felt relief. This patient entertained the pleasing prospect of incalculable relief, just in proportion as she could be able to endure the pres sure of the lace. Case 5. Mrs. B., Vt., aged forty, was a lady of great intelli gence and enterprise. She had for very many years been sub ject, or predisposed, to the piles, and had succeeded in par- tially ridding herself of them. But her doctor, through fear of a pulmonary affection, re-established them by aloes, designing, by their irritation, to draw away the action fjrom the lnngs to the lower bowel. The effect on the rectum was intolerable; the piles returned in a fearful force, so that the mucous mem- brane was extensively inverted, exceedingly congested and enlarged. She had endured two or three operations, or ex- tirpations, with considerable relief; but, when I saw her, she had been making ready her affairs to submit to another ope- ration, and the following was her description of the case. She said that she was not costive, but that she had great trouble in her alvine evacuations. The calls were as regular as was desirable, but the efforts only partially successful. Each evacuation would be accompanied by great straining, also by a dropping down of the folds, or " bladders, of the inner coat of the bowel," as she called them, seeming to obstruct the descent of a portion of the faeces. In a short time she wouldbe again called to the stool, with the same efforts and results. This would, in general, have to be done three times each morn- ing, when it would seem that the evacuation had been com- plete, and all was perfectly easy again until the next day. She also stated, that after every faecal effort, she was always obliged to lie upon the floor with the hips elevated, and, with manual effort, return the bowel. She seemed like a lady, and one of uncommon firmness and resolution, but her countenance and manner indicated that she was about worn out. In this situation she superintended her concerns, and with how much comfort you can judge. The lace was applied to this lady in the morning; in the evening I called to see her. She seem- ed like one anew created; her countenance showed it, but her tongue told it. She said her family told her that she was crazy. Two days after, I called to see her again, and found her doing well. She informed me that she had been able to evacuate her bowels at one natural effort with ease, and to pass the day without any of the former torment and that she could do anything as well as ever. Formerly 'she could COMMON SENSE. 153 not lift, reach, or stoop, without a prolapsus; but now it was not so. She said, in illustration, to-day, I have helped to tack down the carpet, which, for years previously, I have not been able to do. Let these suffice on this point; a large number of similar cases are still at our hand, but these are sufficient to exhibit the correctness of our theory, and the remarkable success of our mechanical remedy. We will not conceal our opinion upon the subject of abdominal support, but candidly aver* that the world have yet to learn (in our estimation) the thousandth part of its importance, in a preventive, or remedial point of vieAv. Of Pain in the left side, 01 Chronic Inflammation of the Spleen. —The spleen is liable to a variety of diseases which, are common to other visceral organs,—such as acute or chronic inflammation, arterial or venous congestion, enlargement or diminution of its volume, &c, &c. The affections may arise from local or constitutional causes, and be either of a primary, direct, or indirect character. This organ is situated in the left side, under the short ribs, and is the seat of much difficulty, and that generally of a chronic character. It must be ac- knowledged by the profession, that what is called an affection of the spleen, or pain in the side, has baffled us much, and been more unsuccessfully treated than the affections of any other organ. The view which we have taken respecting the chronic and mechanical relations of this organ showrs, that a majority of the supposed real affections of the spleen are not real, and explains the cause of cur ill success. The more common affections of this organ are, lameness, some tender- ness, and a dead, dull, deep and continual pain in the leftside, for which cuppings, leechings, issues, and every variety of counter irritation are applied, and that too, often Avithout per- maitent or radical success. Were this disease such as it is supposed to be, viz., some degree of inflammatory affection, it would, and must, generally be relieved materially by this treat- ment. But Dr. Dewees has confessed that his success Avas not at all satisfactory on this point We uoav see that the spleen is pendent from the diaphragm (if the patient have at all the form of fig. 4), and that its liga- ments are put on the stretch. It also appears evident, that, in this case, the remedy is to elevate the abdomen, and keep it so by the firm, gentle, and flexible agency of the lace. Again, it is scarcely ever that these affections of the spleen occur, ex- cepting there be signs of a relaxed state of the abdominal muscles, or, in the female subject, of prolapsus, &c. Dr. DeAvees states this in his practice, and also states tnat they almost universally give Avay to a proper treatment of the- prolapsus. 154 COMMON SENSE. I shall not detail any cases on this point in particular, as they are so numerous, and so connected Avith other affections, and willonly say, that let no man proceed to treat this affection (under the case here supposed), by the usual remedies, until he has tried the influence of support, percussion, friction, and the morning cold bath, and evening tepid saline sponge. J have never known a case of the kind referred to, combined with a relaxation of the abdominal muscles and its effects, tc fail of immediate and entire relief in the use of these means Retention and too Frequent Discharge of Urine.—These two states may have one cause, although they are so opposite in their phenomena. The first of them is exceedingly painful and dangerous ; the latter less so, but very inconvenient and troublesome. Often the same case will alternate from one to the other difficulty. It is highly Avorthy of remark, that very many, or most of these cases, are dyspeptics, hypochondriacs, or cases of prolapsus, whose forms correspond quite accurate- ly with figure 4; or, in other words, we find that retention, or misretention of urine is attendant on, or attended by, pro- lapsus, and all the above results of mechanical pressure. The past view of the subject explains what may be the cause in many cases, viz., that the abdominal organs are fallen onto the bladder, permanently, either inverting it, forming an acute angle in its neck, obstructing the flow of the urine, or com- pressing it, diminishing its capacity and ability to retain the proper amount of fluid, causing the more frequent emission of it. In this case it is plain that the difficulty is not in the urinary organ, or its appendages, but in the neighboring re- lations which the organs hold to it. How inappropriate, then, would be any internal remedies foi retention, or incontinence, under such circumstances; yet many cases of this kind exist for years, and never are sus- pected—the patient doing and taking everything but the right thing. I have become so used to this, that I have detected it in many cases that have baffled the ingenuity of the best prac- titioners, and ha\*e had the pleasure of seeing them yield to abdominal support. Pregnancy is often a fruitful cause of this difficulty, and it is then ascribed to the proper cause, but not suspected in the slim, gaunt subject. Let every practitioner, and every patient v'ius afflicted, before proceeding to medicate for either of these affec- tions, first look at the form, and inquire if there be not a tan- gible cause—some mechanical displacement. If you have the form of Fig. 4., and feel a sense of weight at the base of the abdomen, and have other symptoms of muscular relaxation, let him apply a lace, and very likely an immediate amelioration may be effected. Tt is often astonishing what relief is experienced, even in COMMON SENSE. 155 old and obstinate cases. This point is so obvious, and the cases so common and intenvoven with other diseases, that I shall not take time to detail cases in illustration. But the reader may rest assured that there is no lack of them. In various cases of the prostate-gland, the abdominal sup- port has done much when there was constant tenderness and pain from the superincumbent weight on the diseased and irritated part; although it cannot cure, still it removes a great source of irritation. Affections of the Spine.—We have seen that the spine is made and arranged to sustain the whole trunk, and that it does it with ease only when all the relations are perfect, and accord- ing to the view laid down in the preceding chapter of this work, Avhereby the bodjr is balanced on the spine, or its axis, and all the abdominal organs thrown as nearly into the centre, or axis of the body, as can be, when the body is in the healthy state and erect posture. In this set of relations we see that there is but little leverage on the spine, and that the effect of gravity is only to make the posture the more firm and easy. We have also seen that a crooked posture, and relaxed muscles, wholly disarrange this set of relations, inducing a correspond- ing change of operations, of a serious and afflictive character. The weight of the body is then thrown on to the substance or body of the vertebrae, or spine, in lieu of the processes, thus relaxing the abdominal muscles, letting the abdominal contents fall and roll farther from the axis, thus increasing their leverage on the spine, and putting an increased and perpetual burden on the muscles of the back. They must now carry the whole to a great disadvantage, producing the necessary results, viz., every degree of pain and disease of the back, genuine spinal irritation from pressure on the cartilages, &c, and also spinal or muscular weakness from exhaustion, which may exist alone, or in combination with real irritation. It is Avell known that spinal irritation can and does often pro- duce every affection of the viscera; and that it is often not suspected until fruitless efforts have been made to cure the symptoms, as primary diseases; then all is often suddenly re- lieved by a cupping, or some counter irritation to the back. But let it be remembered that spinal irritation calling for de- pletory treatment, must have some degree of inflammation present, and that when there is this, there must be a sensitive- ness on pressure, and the reduction of this inflammation only relieves, but to allow of a return, unless the pressure of the body be in some way removed from the susceptible parts. This accounts for the frequent failure in the common treatment by depletion. The practitioner should always, then, after his patient does not entirely recover by the common practice, put on a lace, to 156 COMMON SENSE. restore the proper relations—the axis of the body—and suppon the trunk on its oavti organs, by elevating them. I have been astonished to see certain patients immediately recover from very old, genuine irritation, by the lace alone, after years of suffering and disease, and treatment also. But it seems to me that, as a general rule, the topical, counter-irritating treatment and the lace, should always be combined. In this Avay the cure will be hastened and pain saved. This idea may be said not to be neAv, as so many bandages, jackets, shoulder-braces, and metal splints have been devised for such cases. But a moment's reflection will show that these are no support at all, properly considered, and operate by merely acting as screws to squeeze, or as posts to hold the body, or for it to lean upon, doing in this way much hurt, by compressing the muscles, or by inducing increased activity in the muscles of one side and torpor in those of the other, thus destroying their equilibrium, that true power by which our symmetry is preserved. The effect of the lace is very different, as it does not compress or confine any muscle, but supports them, and elevates or lifts the whole trunk as it Avere, the hips being the pivot of action. I, therefore, in all cases of protract- ed spinal disease, advise the immediate application of the lace, and the cultivation of the erect posture by calisthenic ex- ercises. Should this fail, then I would put on the cups or leeches, until the tenderness is reduced materially, and follow- ing them by counter-irritation, if necessary;—(I speak of chronic, or standing cases.) I shall not prolong my remarks on this point, but proceed to give a detail of cases illustrating the above principle. Before doing it, however, I will speak of spinal weakness, or muscular weakness of the back, either alone, or in combina- tion with the irritation, as was noticed in the pathological part of the work. This weakness has often, too often, been mis- taken for inflammation, or genuine irritation of the spine, and treated accordingly, without success, to the exhaustion of the patient, and great suffering also. This state is distinguished from the former, by the want of that intense tenderness of one or more of the spinal bones, and sometimes the reflection of the pain to some of the organs in the trunk. The patient on pressure answers moderately as to the amount of pain produced —" 'Tis tender, sore, or it aches"—in lieu of cringing suddenly. But this weakness may exist in combination Avith the irritation The treatment for the weakness alone, by topical and counter- acting applications, will always irritate the patient, as she is more likely to bear tonics than depletion. It has been truly surprising and gratifying to see hoAv such protracted, exhausted cases—mistaken cases—do immediately recover vigor by the simple application of the lace. Indeed, I regard this distinction COMMON SENSE. 157 between spinal irritation and muscular weakness to be one of the most important points that is comprised within the con sideration of spinal diseases. A prominent object in the folloAving cases is, to show the superiority of support at the back and not at the top of the trunk, or at most, that in all cases Avhere superior support is requisite, the lace must be peculiarly so, to give efficiency to the former. Case 1. Miss H., Ct., a young lady.had for four or five years been afflicted Avith spinal irritation, so much so that the gentle passage of the hand up and down the spine produced a general horror or shuddering, with a snapping of the eyes, and strange feeling in the head. She had been unable to Avalk or sit erect, but drooped on one side. The head ached continually, and the mind Avas always confused, and could not endure mental application. The stomach Avas retracted, the lower abdomen tumid, and respiration short; the figure that of number four. I had no faith that anything could be done in her case, as it Avas extensive and severe, and had been treated by all the eminent men of the profession in the vicinity. But the lace was applied, and astonishing to tell, she exclaimed, before she arose from the recumbent posture, " I feel better;" and on rising she said, " My head has not felt so clear for a year." All uneasiness was gone; she sat and stood erect Avith ease, and she was after- wards able to apply herself to her studies and various manual duties with pleasure. Case 2. Cure of Curvature without Irritation.—Mr. A., of Ct., was a large and fleshy man ; his form was greatly bent to one side,so that one shoulder Avas much the lowest; his spine was much curved, but with no tenderness or pain. The abdo- men was full, heavy and pendulous; he was unable to walk more than a feAV rods, on account of great weakness in the back, or giving away in it, through the weight of the trunk ; it falling and pressing out of the axis of the body, the equilibrium of muscular action Avas broken. So great was his deformity that I considered him a hopeless case : but I found that he could straighten the curve when in the recumbent posture,, or by hanging to a hook or rope. The lace Avas applied ; he arose and stood firmly on his feet, and erect, too, and said that he felt strong and well. This effect continued to be permanent. In this case the lace took the burden, and relieved the spine of its load, whereby the remaining muscular energy was able to carry its charge erect. This shoAvs that curvature should not be treated by compression, but by support, and the cultivation of equal exercise in the antagonistical muscles. Case 3. Miss F., Vt, a tailoress, had been afflicted for years with serious spinal irritation, inducing the bent posture, and all the complicated effects of relaxation and displacement, more 14 158 COMMON SENSE. especially on the lungs, leading herself and her doctors to ap- prehend an organic affection of them. The back was very weak and sore, and could in no Avise hold her up or bear pres- sure with the finger. The lace was applied to her, and instan- taneous comfort and growing relief was the result; her form was improved, her respiration and her general strength also. She afterwards (six days) paid the price of the lace, and with a smile said, " There, doctor, you have my thanks, I assure you; that is but a small compensation for the comfort I have already received from your counsel and the lace." Case 4. Mrs. M , Vt., had been a plague to all the faculty, and to herself and friends for years. She was afflicted with a most obstinate spinal irritation, affecting the spine, the heart, brain, and everything else. Every degree of cupping and counter irritation was used, and every variety, but all to no effect; the intended remedies even seemed to wear her out, and finally all were worn out with the case, and it was given up. In this dilemma the lace was applied, expecting only to relieve the suffering from the spinal disease, but more especially to relieve the prolapsus, leucorrhoea, costiveness and dyspepsy. She was advised to try the cups and irritation, in conjunction with the lace, to see Avhat might he done In this her physi- cian (Dr. R.) agreed with me. He called to attend to it, but found the patient indisposed to submit, as not only were all the com- mon troubles relieved, but the Aveakness of the spine also. She immediately set about her domestic concerns herself, and with a pleasure and ease before unknoAvn. This case astonished the faculty, and made much impression upon them in favor of the lace. Case 5. Miss C, Vt., was one of the oldest, most compli- cated, extensive, and obstinate cases of spinal irritation in Addison County. I need only say that all that friends could advise, or ingenuity invent, had for years been assiduously tried, and with no relief; perfect irritation and perfect weak- ness were present. Her trunk could scarcely be sustained by the spine. Every female debility set in; the heart partook largely of the effect, and also the brain. She seemed to be a wreck of matter and arrangement; she could walk but a few rods, and sit but a short time. The whole length of the spine and surface of the back was tender, and ached sorely, The lace was applied. I Avould also state that her abdominal walls were peculiarly flabby and relaxed, and seemed to afford no more real support to the viscera than a large knapsack would. She was immediately able to stand or sit erect, walk near a mile, and enjoy herself, as she said, well. This was a case where no radical cure was effected, but where there was great and invaluable relief obtained, and such relief as no combination of treatment could afford. COMMON SENSE. 159 Case 6. Miss L. and Miss M., two young ladies, milliners, Were unable to labor in consequence of a universal tenderness of the spine. The mind, the heart, the stomach, bowels and uterus all shared, to the full extent, in the derangement, con- stituting them two most miserable beings, Avithout comfort or prospect of it. Let it suffice to say, that the application of the lace removed all the aggravating symptoms, and restored them immediately. Case 7. Miss C, Mass., was among the most pitiful cases of 6pinal irritation that I ever saAv. It had been of three or four years duration. She had been in the hospital many months, unable to turn herself; her mind was wrecked, and almost gone ; she Avas childish, though not idiotic. The back Avas one extended line of inflammation ; the body was bent forAvard; the heart Avas subject to the most dreadful palpitations, even to SAVOoning on the slightest excitement of body or mind; the res- piration Avas short and labored ; the stomach could bear almost nothing; the bowels were constipated, and prolapsus and leucorrhoDa was severe. This is but a faint description of the case. Her back was one extended cicatrix from cups, leeches, the moxa, and other counter irritations. As to her treatment, it had been the best, and everything any respectable authority could suggest, but none could help her beyond the ability to walk about gently. She said, that if she could breathe once more, and stand erect, she Avould not ask any farther aid. The lace was applied, and, to her ecstacy, she did straighten up immediately, and exclaimed, " I am straight once more ! I am straight once more !" She breathed freely and with ease, the heart's morbid action Avas allayed, the costiveness, prolap- sus and leucorrhaca also were subdued. Her acquaintances Avondered at the change, as she ran through the village to tell the joyful news in child-like simplicity. She found this relief to be real, so that she entered the cotton factory (her former place of labor), on the next Aveek. Case 8. Miss I., N. H., had many months been severely afflicted Avith spinal disease, so that for much of the time she could not move or be moved, without great inconvenience and pain. She underwent the usual and proper treatment of local depletion and counter irritation. In the course of time she improved so as to walk a feAV rods, and sit up considerable of the time. She was very constipated, and labored with the usual attendants on this symptom.' Her back was very pain- ful and weak. For months she had not gained at all, nor Avas she like to, as there Avas no more call for the usual treatment, or prospect of benefit by it, and nothing else Avas being done; and almost every attempt to exercise was followed by an ag- gravation of the symptoms, because she was in an ineligible 160 COMMON SENSE. state for its prosecution; at the same time she was suffering with want of it. The reasons for this must be obvious, Avhen we recollect the true philosophy of erectitude of body and its advantages, and the unnatural load on the Aveak abdominal and dorsal muscles, also the increase of pressure on the al- ready inflamed vertebrae At this juncture the lace Avas applied, giving instantaneous relief to the back and stomach. She immediately resumed her proper attitude Avith ease and pleasure ; her limbs moved with cheerfulness, and in three days she walked to church and home again, a distance of about half a mile, and was refresh- ed by it. In the short space of one week she was both able and as disposed as usual to romp freely. Case 9. Miss C, N. H., had for years been severely afflicted by a serious spinal difficulty. For a long time she could neither sit nor stand, so irritable was her back. She under- went scarifications and all sorts of counter irritation by the year, and Avas only relieved temporarily, the inflammation be- ing reproduced, and the muscular weakness kept up by the weight of the body on the diseased vertebrae and the already Avorn out muscles. The heart partook largely of the reflected influences, and the mind Avas exceedingly gloomy and des- ponding. At this period I saAV her. She could stand upon her feet a minute or two. I applied the lace, and in one mo- ment she felt relieved. She Avalked the room, stood and sat straight, felt her respiration improved, her head clear and mind cheerful. In the course of tAvo or three days she rode several miles to hear me lecture, and in a few days more called at my room, and was, to say the least, a changed person. She, on parting Avith me, clasped my hand, and said, I shall ever re- member you as the means of my restoration to health. Her case produced much feeling in the surrounding vicinity, as she had been so long treated by a reputed man, and got nothing better. Case 10. Mr. C, N. H., had for several years been affected with hemiplegia, till he Avas iioav, and had been for a long time, almost helpless. One arm Avas motionless, and the other partially so; he was hideously distorted by the muscles of the opposite side. His bowels never moved Avithout the most powerful cathartic influence, Avhich influence was noAv very hard to excite. By the aid of his mother (a strong lady) he could crawl or draw himself across the room. His sense of soreness at the stomach, pain in the centre of the breast, and weight at the bottom of the abdomen, avus very great and inconvenient. In this case the question Avas not Avhether the hemiplegia could be cured by support, but Avhether he could be made stronger by lifting up the much sunken belly, and of course, taking its weight, to a great extent, off from the spine, and by support- COMMON SENSE. 161 ing the atrophied flabby muscles of the back. The lace was applied and in the same hour he walked across the room with great difficulty, to be sure, as must every distorted, paralytic man. He breathed easier, rose from his chair easier, and Avas much comforted in many other respects. In the space of tA\ro days, his bowels were moved by the resources of nature, and have continued to do so ever since. His attendants say that he is now not near the trouble he formerly was. This case learns us much, in many points of view. It learns us that apart from the disease that dissolves our house or clay tabernacle, the natural weight of it not being abated, comes in and acts as a consummation of the dissolution, it acting noAV to a great disadvantage on the building, Avhich has changed its bearing to this passive principle; so that in these cases, when the philosophical arrangement is destroyed by the want of integrity in some one only of the parts concerned in the normal arrangement, the mere Aveight of the body is often our greatest incumbrance in the way of either relief or partial comfort. It learns us that when the machinery as a whole be- comes deranged, that very beautiful thing becomes our clog, our load, which Ave may well long to lay doAvn, as is express- ed by the poet. It learns us that two things are always to be kept in view, viz., to cure, and to alleviate, or make endura- ble ; or rather, to place the body under the most advantageous circumstances to bear the incurable disease, and that for two reasons, viz., that we remove all aggravating tendencies, and give temporary comfort. Case 11. Mr. G. H. had for many years been perfectly para- lytic in his lower extremities. He seemed to have no irritation of the spine, of any kind. He had undergone every variety of treatment that the oldest and ablest of the faculty could perse- veringly apply, with but very little benefit. He could not beai his weight on his limbs. He seemed to have no disease, eithei local or constitutional. The lace Avas applied, which commen- ced a gradual improvement, so that in three Aveeks he could sit erect and walk across the floor by the aid of his crutch and cane. His spirits and courage improved, and the last I knew of him he was on the gain. This case Avas a most striking illustration of the power of gravity on a paralyzed man. It pressed down his little re- maining resources. It also shows the power of the anti-gravi- tating influence of the lace, in encouragmg nature to exert her flagging powers for the restoration of her functions. The following cases show the truth of my views on the philosophy of attitude, and also that when the body is weak and droops, it is not from weakness of the spine, but of its muscles, or a part of them. It also shows (what others have also shoAvn, but not urged practically, as was needed), that the 14* 162 COMMON SENSE. way to cure curvature, or inability to sit or stand, is not to fix a leaning post for the patient, nor to put her in the screws so that she cannot fall; for in this way, the muscles are more palsied, by doing for them what nature should do ; in the other case, it compresses the muscles and prevents their action. In these cases the patient straightens, because she cannot crook, stands because she cannot fall, and the weak muscles are gaming nothing by exercise and partial support. We see then that steel or brass jackets, in the main, only tend to perpetuate the evil (i. e., when there is any energy of the muscle left). She depends entirely on it. She leans on her shoulder brace, and when it is removed, she is lost and droops down again. But by the lace the weight is taken off the spine, through the lifting up of the body, causing the abdominal organs to press back the chest, rather than drag upon it. Also the muscles of the back are strengthened and made more tense by pressing them in tOAvards or on to the spine, causing them to pull back the shoulders, thus causing as much weight to rest behind the axis of the body as before it In this way we see that the body is now in its normal state, resting on its axis or pivot, viz., the spinal processes of the bones of the small of the back, the weight being equal on all points. We also see that all the organs in this posture must preserve their mutual bearings, by the thus made tenseness of their surrounding Avails. We also see that Avhere this is accomplished it is not done by depriving the muscles of their use and proper exercise; they are all at liberty, and in an eligible situation to act under the will and force of circumstances. Or, in other words, the lace is injurious to no muscle, but only acts as prompter to their action, which is to be gently drawn away, as the resources of the system in- crease. And here let me remark, in justice to truth and my- self, that there is all the difference between assisting and gendy encouraging a muscle, by artificial support, and perfectly taking the Avork out of nature's hands, rather encouraging the difficulty than relieving it. Case 1. Cases showing the superiority of the Lace over the brats corset.—Miss P., a young and beautiful lady, had lost one sister of irritation and distortion of the spine; she died under the ordinary treatment of brass stays and severe lacing and press- ure. She herself was verging to the same condition, and had visited an institution which gave special attention to these complaints. She wore a brass corset or jacket, Avhich nearly reached round her; it covered her Avhole back. When it was well laced on she could remain quite straight, by leaning on it, but on removing it she was " lost and gone," as she said. The lace was applied in her case, and in one moment she declared that the actual support that it gave was greater than that of the corset. She also had more liberty and ability to move, and to COMMON SENSE. 163 call the palsied muscles into use. She continued to use the lace, declaring great preference in its favor. Case 2. Miss E., of Southbridge, Mass, had been an inmate of an institution for the treatment of spinal affections, and had worn the corset for several years. It completely emaciated her and Aveighed several pounds, and served truly to hold her up considerably, for she was terribly deformed. On hear- ing me lecture on the philosophy of spinal curvature and the proper manner of applying support, and of its action, she deter- mined to try the Lace. The corset was removed and the lace only was applied. She instantly observed that she felt stronger, though she felt lost Avithout her corset. She never re-applied it. Her form actually improved and her strength also. The secret of the whole was, that iioav the weight was re- moved from the curved spine and weak muscles by means of the lifting agency of the bowel pad of the lace. 2d. That the small or moveable part of the back Avas pressed forward and sustained there by the back pads. 3d. That the shoulders were draAvn back and held so by pressing the elongated muscles to the back. Want of room prevents citing any more cases in point. Now when we see that the brass corset holds the body up, and the lace makes the body hold itself up, we must discover that the latter is to and s/iould be preferred in all cases of spinal weakness, and I give the few folloAving reasons, viz.:—1. It does all that any instrument can do. 2. It does all it does do without any undesirable contingence. 3. Because it is so light, so convenient, and so easy of application and removal. 4 Because it affords its aid sooner than anything else. But why multiply cases; I might make a book of them. The above are only a true and faithful representation of a most numerous class of cases—the fag-end oi practice. From these cases Ave learn, that in irritation, or weakness of the spine, it is not bracing, or holding strength that we want, but lifting, or that the weight be taken off from the spine, and the muscles left at liberty, Avhereby they can exercise them- selves, and thus rouse their "dormant powers ; and that, when this is done, then depletory and counter irritating treatment, if required, may be used, and with a good prospect of success. Let us also learn, that the way to cure curvatures is not to shut up the body, or compress it, or hold it up like an inert post; but to remove the continually gravitating state, and extend en- couragement to the flagging powers. Let those who begin to feel the pains and AATeakness of the back, flee to the cold spring, or the saline sponge and friction, Avith calisthenics. Let them see to their habits early, and correct the evil in the bud. Let them resort to exercise in the open air, and apply the lace h«fore they are so miserable that they cannot live without it, 164 COMMON SENSE. (and hardly Avith it); let them use it as an accompaniment, a convenience and body reserve for times of netd and exposure. Effects of the lace on weak children—But I cannot close this part of the Avork without adverting to the influence of a certain re- laxation on some children. There are a great number of child- ren, especially in cities, among the rich, who early shoAV signs of debility by their pale skins and soft muscles. As a general thing, their minds have been cultivated too early, and have become too much developed for the body's welfare. But this debility and general laxity are sometimes seen in children of two years of age and upwards. They complain of fatigue and languor, too early in the morning, and manifest a disposition to lounge upon the sofa, &c. They soon are drooped, shoulders rounded, stomach contracted, and abdomen generally tumid or emaciated. The breast, perhaps, is pushed out like rickets, the lungs give some evidences of predisposition to disease, and the boAvels are either constipated or lax. The child goes on— perhaps grows too fast, or perhaps the reverse. This state is more common to the age of from ten to four- teen, but occurs in every period previous. The parents are concerned about the decline of the child, and too often have reason to be so, as this is a kind of turning point, Avhether their vital energies shall prevail or not; and, should they not pre- vail, the Rubicon will be past, and the termination be too often unfavorable. At this juncture, a gentle influence in nature's favor, aiding her organic relations, Avill cast the die in favor of the patient, and put it on the ascent. The patients above alluded to more commonly are girls. I have often been consulted for such patients by anxious and indulgent parents, and I repeat, that they too often are pre- cocious, either in mind or body, or both, thereby making too great a draft on the vital resources. Hence such patients love the house, and assume manly and womanly attitudes and manners, physically and intellectually; show an indisposition to romp or gambol, and complain of prostration and head- ache on attempting it. When you come to examine these pa- tients critically, scrutinizing every organ, you will probably find no organic or primary derangement. But take a natural and superficial, yet understanding view of them in the light of tangible science, and you will see the trouble plainly before you. The fibre generally is soft and flabby, and the body is being crushed by its OAvn gravity. Place your hands to the back and abdomen of such patients, and lift up the latter Avnile you press the former, and the child Avill breathe easier, and feel better. I shall detail but three cases on this head, ai COMMON SENSE. 165 I have not many marked ones in my journal, but these cases are bright ones, and will serve to illustrate the point in hand. Case 1. Miss H., aged 13, was a beautiful and interesting girl, of lymphatic form and temperament, skin very fair, and flesh plump and soft. Her limbs Avere always weak, her back always tired, and her head generally aching. Her ambition was great, but it turned to music, literature, and womanly em- ployments, rather than childish sports. Her abdomen Avas tumid, and her bowels costive, or lax alternately. She had considerable cough, and pain in the chest. Much alarm was excited about her, and consumption Avas the dread, which was evidently waiting its opportunity. But no primary disease of any organ could be detected. I decided the case to be one of general organic laxity, calling for support, fresh air, frolicsome exercise, and entire abstraction from intellectual effort. All this Avas properly attended to, and the lace was applied, which at first created some irritation, but soon became com- fortable. In one week's time she Avas a changed child; her spirits had returned, her countenance had lost its gloom, the pain of the head, breast, back and limbs, Avas gone, and she could endure any amount of frolic and fun that others could. So great Avas the change in one Aveek, that the anxiety for her fate Avas given up, and lost in parental fondness. Case 2. A lady residing at No. 405 Hudson street, New York, writes as follows to the Editor of the New York Tri- bune :— "Mr. Editor--It is well known that childhood is the period Avhen the foundation is laid for feebleness and dis- tortion in youth; also, that a successful antidote or reme- dy has not become generally known. My daughter, noAV 12 years of age, has ever been feeble, intellectually inclined, and both unable and indisposed to recreation or labor; was easily prostrated on the slightest exercise ; her body leaned or drooped on sitting or standing. At length, a progressive de- formity of a shoulder and hip insidiously commenced, Avhich has mocked the best appliances from the most eminent coun- sel. Having heard much of Dr. Banning in such cases, also of his Brace, I applied to him, and by the aid of his easy and gentle body Brace or Lace, the most happy results have en- sued. My child is iioav improved in form and attitude; her strength and povArers of endurance have very much increased, so that she plays freely and can walk like other children The change is evident; and my heartfelt gratitude to Providence I give expression to by this act of philanthropy. I believe that thousands of distorted and enfeebled beings might be remedied and relieved by a timely resort to Dr. B. and his directions. The great advantage of his appliance over others is, that it acts by lifting and supporting, and not by compressing thd* 166 COMMON SENSE. body—by not compressing any muscle or impeding any mo tion. It is applied at the base, and not the top, oi the sinking pile. A Mother, 405 Hudson street." New York, May 1, 1845. Case 3. Master M., N, Y., was much distorted, Aveak and indisposed to exercise ; easily fatigued—when he stooped or hent, he leaned to one side; back ached much. On applica- tion of the " Brace," he instantly remarked hoAV strong he felt. His form, strength and condition are much improved. I could follow these cases with a large number of others of this city and from Boston ; but the above must suffice. Judge ye, pa- rents, between the Lace, a support to the abdomen, and back, and the shoulder brace, Avhich is so insidious in its evils, and so deceptive as to its good. Let these cases, and others like them, teach us that medicine is not the thing for the constitutions of children who are dying of physical, moral and mental oppression, and that the danger of omitting to take the above precautions and remedies, in analogous cases, is very great. Of Habitual Colic.—Many are troubled with an habitual col- ic, or a colic which becomes habitual. In most of such cases you Avill find the patient's form like that of figure 4. The shoulders will be curved, the head draAvn down, the form, or rather waist, will be retracted or slim, and the abdomen will be tender—often very tumid. The patient will feel a dragging throughout the trunk, and weight at the bottom of the abdo- men, Avhich will be aggravated in walking or riding. Sooner or later a fresh paroxysm of the colic will be the result of any effort which shakes the body, and calls upon the tone of the abdominal muscles. The truth is, that in these cases, all of the mechanical derangements, displacements and infringe- ments described in this Avork, do exist and act, inducing the perpetual recurrence of the disease, Avhich no medicine can cure, but which may be remedied by applying support to the spine and abdomen, as has been fully proved by an extensive practice and observation. I cite one in illustration. Case 1. Dr. K., of Pennsylvania, was habitually subject to the most dreadful attacks of colic, which would last for days with pertinacious obstinacy and severity. In the interim be- tween the attacks he was feeble, and could only move around with great difficulty. His form was peculiarly that above de- scribed, his voice Avas feeble, his movements careful, his bowels were sluggish, and his horseback exercise was per- formed always with some degree of pain, or sensitiveness, con- sequent on jolting, besides a paroxysm of the colic was often the result of such exercise. The lace was applied to this gentle- man at noon of a day when he was compelled to ride mui h. At evening he called to tell me that he was a new man, that COMMON SENSE. 167 he. was invigorated by his exercise, and that he had performed it with ease and pleasure. He said that he could stand up like a man, and felt like a man. The dragging at the stomach, and soreness consequent on jolting, Avere removed, and he felt that he was about to enjoy life again. In such cases as these there are several reasons why the lace will act as an antidote to the recurrence of the paroxysms. Among them are these : first, they are accompanied by relaxed abdominal muscle, inducing a pendent state of the abdominal organs : second, the frequent recurrence of the paroxysms (in connection Avith the relaxation) gives rise to a neuralgia, or sensitiveness of the visceral tissues, depreciating their powers of endurance. The lace removes the pendent state, and pre- vents the jostling consequent on riding, and thereby the pa- tient avoids the ill effects of the morbid sensitiveness. Indeed, as a travelling accompaniment for corpulent or delicate ladies and gentlemen, the lace has been found to be invaluable, pre- venting that fatigue and weariness which so nearly Avears out the feeble. Influence of the Lace during Pregnancy.—This period, so full of interest to mankind in general, and especially so to the sub- |ect of it, it is Avell known, is beset with a full share of troubles, so tiiat it may well be called a journey over a thorny road. Among these troubles are, pain and weakness of the hips and limbs, from pressure on the sensitive and ligamentous tissues; pain in the back, with great weakness; also a darting sensa- tion up the spine into the head, inducing confusion of mind, dizzaiess, ringing of the ears, and strange feelings, threatening fits, from irritation of the spinal nerves, and compression of the vena cava and arteria innominata, or main arteries and veins of the trunk; cramps of the abdominal muscles; pain, Aveight and distension ; costiveness and urinary incontinence or reten- tion from compression of the rectum and bladder or its stem; finally, varicose veins and SAvelling of the limbs from compres- sion of the lymphatics and veins in their ascent. Those, in their combination, Avear out the patient, induce abortions, or make life a terror. They have hitherto been treated by cathartics, paregoric, and the lancet. In my prac- tice I have bled my patients nearly to death to prevent their dying, Avhen they absolutely Avere suffering for want of blood, and Avere likely to need it still more in the hour of and period after parturition, or labor. I have given cathartics and laxa- tives, turning the stomach upside down, and wearing out the sensibilities, Avhen the cause was mechanical, and not under the cognizance of medicine. Noav it is evident, that the cause of most or all of the above and oti er complaints of pregnancy is mechanical, and that distens m, w eight and pressure, make up the constituents of 168 COMMON SENSE this cause. It is also obvious, that the lace, by its uniform, gentle pressure, will tend much to remedy, or at least to miti- gate these sufferings. I entertain gloomy contemplations for the female sex, Avhen I reflect on my own and others' practice in these matters, and the amount of loss and suffering Avhich bad practice or neglect brings, and is likely to bring upon so many thousands. I believe that thousands of abortions, still- born children, bad labors and deaths, might be prevented by a judicious application of support to the abdomen. One mo- ment's reflection will show how it is that the lace may remedy these sufferings. I shall detail two cases illustrative of the truth of this po- sition. Case 1. Mrs. B. Avas on her journey Avith her second child, and in her seventh month. She had suffered exceedingly for months, with obstinate constipation and its effects, great weak- ness of the limbs and pain of the back, Avith strange sensations running up the spine, entering the head and " sprangling" out (as she expressed it), making her feel as though she would fall doAvn in a fit; her spirits Avere exceedingly depressed, and her stomach exhibited every variety and degree of irritation that 6uch patients do. Her cramps were seA'ere. Her hips, she said, Avould come apart; her veins Avere very varicose and painful, her limbs exceedingly painful and heavy, and, indeed, she walked by the aid of whatever was in her reach. I was compelled to bleed her often to save her life, apparently, when she seemed destitute of blood. I had reason to fear that she would not survive the journey. At this juncture an inguinal hernia (or rupture of the loAver belly) broke out. which com- pelled me to apply a large truss. Soon after this application I saAV her, and inquired as to the hernia. " Why," said she, " that is gone, but that is the least of all; ever since I have applied the truss, all my pain in the back, head, abdomen, hips and limbs has gone ; I feel as light as a bird." She flew around, and seemed in an ecstacy. Every- thing was relieved, and the necessity for my former treatment was obviated. I never shall forget the reflections Avhich this case brought over me, nor the light that burst in upon my mind, nor the resolutions of reformations and improvements in practice I then formed. Case 2. Mrs. J., Ct., Avas in her eighth month of pregnancy. She was borne down with gloom, derangement of the brain, stomach, back and limbs; her sense of Aveight Avas intolerable, and her limbs refused to carry her. It was with great labor that she could walk at all, and faintings were very common, when she attempted a half mile walk, leaning on the arm of her husband. The lace was applied, and instantly, as by a COMMON SENSE. 169 charm, every symptom, so indescribably distressing and in- convenient, Avas relieved. She informed me that although to even superintend her family affairs was a heavy undertaking, she could now engage in the labor with delight, and without inconvenience. Her husband also informed me, that in lieu of hanging on his arm in a short walk, she could now Avalk blithely to his father's (a distance of over a mile), without any faintings or fatigue. I feel deeply the importance of pressing home this subject on the minds of the people and the profession, not pretending that the lace can do everything in these cases, but that it can do incalculable good, and Avhat nothing else can do, and that in a most harmless way, saving much strength, pain and vital energy. I should delight to introduce several other cases in point, but want of room forbids. The Influence of the Lace in Child-Bed.—The puerperal, or child-bed state or period, is not less full of interest or danger than any period or state in female life. Of the puerperal fever and the usual and often fatal inflammatory affections, I shall not speak, but consider the less fatal and more mechanical and philosophical circumstances, their effects, and their proper treatment. What is the organic condition of the newly delivered female ? We remark, that she is now under an entirely new set of re- lations. She has passed from great tension of abdomen and fulness also, to perfect relaxation and emptiness; from visceral elevation to visceral gravitation, and from great ligamentous extension and tumor to great diminution and relaxation. The vagina is also relaxed and dilated to its utmost dimensions, ceasing to sustain the uterus at all. By this we see that in lieu of even ordinary or partial mutual support, every organ within the whole trunk, from the uteras to the throat, has lost its usual anti-gravitating influences, viz., the abdominal muscles, the \ragina and floor of the abdomen, and nothing can now control the general and individual descent of all the viscera, (excepting their natural moorings), mutually crowding each other, putting their ligaments upon the stretch, inducing all the effects heretofore delineated, in an aggravated and su- perlative degree. What, then, would be the effect of the continuance of this state ? I answer, it would be to disable the patient from rising, or if she did rise, it A\*ould aggravate this morbid state; for it is most evident, that a rising up of the patient in this state (especially if she be of a relaxed habit) tends to induce a general pulling upon the visceral ligaments, producing a drop- ping of the womb into the vagina; keeping up the whites, and all the effects of prolapsus, such as pain in the back, or broken back, Aveight at the base of the abdomen, displacement, and uneasiness of the abdominal organs, and tension of the 15 170 COMMON -SENSE. mediastinum, causing a sense of pulling or tightness in the breast, with shortness of breath, and some pain in that region. Also, a palpitation of the heart, distress, or sinking, or goneness in the stomach, and many other feelings, too numerous to mention. If this view of the subject be correct, what shall we say of those patients who neglect or are suffered to neglect swathing, or efficient support to the abdomen, before rising after child-bed? There is a set of masculine mid wives and ignorant accoucheurs, who hoot at the necessity of supporting the abdomen in that period, because they know of hundreds who have neglected it with impunity. To be sure, they may, but the evil day in these cases may only have been postponed till later life, or, even if it. did not injure them, one thing is evident, viz., that the ten- dency is destructive, and that it will have its effect in a fearful number of cases; and it will be admitted by all that one case of our fashionable " breakdowns," as the result of imprudence and neglect, is a sufficient apology for care and prudence in a thousand where the reason for it may not seem so imperative. My experience has been such, in connection with the above physiological view, that I have come to the decided conclusion, that three-fourths of the evils of child-bearing, in after life, on the female constitution, do not grow out of the nature and necessity of the case, but out of inattention to the mechanical relations, and in this, every observing and judicious Avoman and practitioner Avill bear me out. But this neglect has not been universal, by any means, for our best writers on this subject insist much on bandaging or supporting the abdomen, as they call it. But Avhat do they recommend, and what do the thoughtful apply, for the effecting of this object. A toAvel, pinned around the hips, with a cushion under it, over the loAver abdomen. Let us now see how much good and how much hurt this is likely to effect. The abdomen is very flat and flabby, and the abdominal organs lie loose in the abdomen, like leeches attached to the Avails of a jar. The towel must be applied low down, to elevate the viscera, and prevent pressure on the uterus; consequently, it must pass around the hips, and they being now higher than the abdomen, of course the latter cannot be compressed by it without a large, heating, and heavy cushion under the toAvel (commonly this is a small pillow). But, Avhat have we yet effected ? Nothing but compression, for this bandage does nothing but press the belly back, towards the back, and presses about as much on to the uterus as off from it. Furthermore, you get as much and more pressure on the back and hips than on the abdomen, all of which is unnecessary, useless, and in- jurious. Again: the bandage will not keep its place, slip up, thus COMMON SENSE. 1/1 doing often more harm than good. It is well known that the child-bed state is peculiarly disposed to take either a febrile or inflammatory action, which too often cannot be checked, and that the patient must be kept cool and airy;—but Avhat have Ave got here ? A sweating, heating, chafing, irritating, mov- able thing, which certainly must tend to enhance the chances of inflammation and fever, and excite restlessness, local irrita- tion, and after all not effect the support desired, but leave the patient laboring uuder the inconvenience and bad tendency of the general relaxation. I have seen so much of this, and of the want of adaptedness to the circumstances in the bandage, and the extreme need of the patient, that I am most deeply impressed with a sense of the necessity of something which will effect the desired object without so much inconvenience and trouble. I do beseech of the profession, and the people, to give some attention to this mere nucleus of ideas on this point; for I am persuaded that millions of lives are sacrificed by its neglect, and that an immense amount of suffering and domestic misery from child-bearing is the result of inattention to light, cool, judicious; and efficient support. I shall close this point by the description of a few cases, and leave the subject to the con- sideration of those interested. Case 1. Mrs. B. was delivered of a large boy, and was ex- ceedingly smart, so that she was in the kitchen on the third day. I will here premise, that I had faithfully applied the bandage. The consequence was, that she. was confined to her bed for seven days; any attempt at the inclined or erect posture being attended with a most distressing sensation of sinking or faint- ness in the region of the stomach; or, as she expressed it, snch a " dragging, suoh a goneness, sinking, it seemed as if she could not breathe." She felt it from the throat down to the hips. She ate continually, and said it was all the comfort she had, " for it filled her up, and relieved the sinking and goneness." She complained of great and insufferable bearing doAvn on the pubes, accompanied by the to be expected sense of weight and dragging, or grinding, in that region, and in the small of the back. Her limbs and hips were agonized much on sitting, or by motion ; the head partook largely of the swimming and dizzi- ness usually attending such affections, accompanied with con- fusion of ideas, and all this was constantly recurring on any attempt to turn or rise. Difficulty of respiration and palpita- tion were also distressing. Her abdomen was perfectly flabby and pendulous, and the stomach very much retracted. Plasters, bandages and tonics of every variety, and in any quantity, were administered with but a very transient effect. On the seventh day, in the evening, after a most desponding 172 COMMON SENSE. fit of crying, she said she believed that a supporter would do her good; accordingly an imperfect one Avas applied. She arose to her feet on the bed, and "adjusted it (a thing she could not have done previously without fainting). She exclaimed, " There, I am well now." She then stepped deliberately off from the bed with ease, walked to the fire, and partook cheer- fully of a repast. In three days she rode ten miles to visit her friends. This case made a deep impression upon my mind, partaking both of joy and chagrin; for I saw not only the effect in this case, in thousands like it, but I also saw, like a flash, that the medical world Avas in the dark, and had made sad work with many constitutions by medicine, when all that was wanting was support to the mechanical relations. I also saw that they would for ever remain so (probably), and leave thousands un- relieved, by improper applications to them. Since then has my heart and pen been devoted to this theme; and tongue cannot communicate the extent of my success, and the glorious and happy results to the devoted sufferer. Very many other cases have come under my observation like the above, since, though not quite so marked; and as there is such a sameness in them all I shall deem it expedient to men- tion only one. Case 2. Mrs. L., N. H., had been delivered about three weeks, and was coming up like most other ladies, sitting up most of the time, or dragging round sloAvly, complaining of want of strength, particularly on sitting or stanaing, but Avas told by her doctor that she was getting along finely, and was so considered by her friends and by herself also. The lace Avas applied, and to her surprise she was a woman at once. She immediately attended to her OAvn room and child, and Avas pleased and invigorated by the exercise. Suffice it to say, that all concerned were surprised and delighted. I now close this subject by saying, in all honesty and candor of soul, try this remedy, aud examine these vieAvs relating to pregnancy and the child-bed period, and see if the most happy results do not accrue. The Use of the Lace in Uterine Hemorrhage and Profuse Men- struation.—This disease, or malady, is sapping the foundation of life daily to ten times the extent we are inclined to suppose The effects of it are reflex on the constitution, deranging all the functions of the body, enervating the digestive poAvers, the nervous system, the muscular system, and deranging the mechanical relations, of Avhich we have treated in this work. It is also a malady that does not acknowledge the specific or universal healing agency of any article or class of remedies, and hence for this disease the patient often spends years in a fruit- less routine of practice, while the eflects of the difficulty are COMMON SENSE. 173 marching on, all the time, until the patient's constitution is undermined. She is then supposed to have every disease to which woman is heir, and receives treatment for about as many, when, at the same time, there is an identity in the cause and perpetuating agency of the whole of them. The truth is, that in some cases, Avhere the patient seems to be bleeding into the grave, all debilitated, it is estimated a case of general debility, and thus treated. But tonics excite headache and fever, and aggravate the difficulty, thus shoAving that although the patient is being exhausted by a draft upon the fountain of animal life, yet it is not originally debility, nor to be cured by strengthening remedies, being only enhanced by them. Thus we learn that the debility is in these cases an effect, and not a cause. There are other cases where the same diseased phenomena are exhibited, that are relieved directly by tonics, and remedies having a specific influence on the diseased functions of the uterus. These different cases show that there is a variety in the cause and character of the malady and proper remedies. We now proceed to see if we can discover any means of ac- counting for the variety or difference of success in the treatment of this insidious destroyer of the fair portion of our race. I would request the physician and the patient first to ex- amine the form, both with reference to the present and the past, at or previous to the attack. First, then, what is it now (and we will suppose the patient to be a real subject), and what has it been ? Is it not like fig. 4, more or less ? Are not the uterine organs depressed by the abdominal viscera ? Are not all the organs pendent, in lieu of being supported, and, of course, are not their functions either exalted, depressed or modified by this breach in the mechanical policy ? Do not these coincidents between the symptoms and the tangible rela- tions and conditions of the system argue something worthy of consideration ? Do they not point really to some rational con- clusions and inferences in the pathology of some cases of uterine hemorrhage and profuse menstruation? Is not this state cal- culated to produce a debility in the nerves of organic life (in the uterine organs), by continually pressing on them, stretching their connections with the surrounding parts, and irritating the nerves, which are distributed to and preside over their func- tions ? Will this state not also irritate the relaxed and debili- tated parts, inducing that unmanageable set of effects which are the results of irritation and real debility; and will not these effects tend to perpetuate both themselves and the cause, or in turn act as causes, and thus induce an endless train of destroy- ing evils ? Even let the primary cause be Avhat it may, will it not induce the state just spoken of (morbid mechanical state), and will it not, though it be only an effect, generate all, and stand in the way of the removal of the primary causes and 15* 174 COMMON SENSE. their effects, until the machinery is replaced. Thus far we have only treated this point in the light of analogy, and we beg of the reader not to spurn the inference before he has fully con- sidered it, by reflection, observation, and experiment. I now take another view of this point. Let us look at it in the light of facts and experiment. Suffice it to say, in no in- stance in Avhich the lace has been used in habitual uterine hemorrhage has it failed of producing the most decided advan- tage to the patient, in a general point of view, and ordinarily in the local affection also; for it is a fact that about all such cases are not only afflicted Avith the difficulty under considera- tion, but also with the whole host of other affections previously treated of, which are the natural result of the relaxation and physical derangement. I repeat, that almost all of the cases of hemorrhage and profuse menstruation are accompanied by the inverted relations of the truncal organs, to a greater or less ex- tent. I knoAv that some are emaciated, and seem not to have abdomen enough to gravitate, and hence we may not observe in them that palpable morbid and inverted shape, as in fig. 4 and the other marked figures. In reply I would say, that it matters not how much or how little this descent exists, so that it really does exist to some extent. It is sufficient to shoAV that there is a change from support throughout the trunk, to the lack of it throughout the same ; for when the most inconceivable morbid or unnatural change takes place in an arrangement whose susceptibilities are presided over by nerves, there always must ensue some degree of suspension, exaltation, or modifica- tion of functions, either locally or generally, and perhaps both. Very many are the cases upon whom the lace has been ap- plied, of which I have kept no journal, and whose names are gone out of my mind ; but I do distinctly recollect their history, and that success always followed. I will only speak of the following. Case 1. Mrs. P., of Pennsylvania, aged 45, mother of a large family, was for nine years afflicted almost to death with flood- ing, or rather a mixture of profuse menstruation and hemor- rhage. Sometimes the attacks were very sudden, and threat- ened instantaneous death, and Avould last for three or four weeks. She seldom passed more than three weeks, and often not more than one, Avithout its recurrence. In connection with the Avasting away (which occupied the anxiety and attention of both the patient and practitioner), there were all the morbid effects of general relaxation. Her nervous difficulties were ex- treme, and dyspeptic ones also. Constipation of the bowels was constant and very obstinate, defying all the ordinary means of relief. She could walk (sometimes) a half a mile per day, but generally was confined to the house, if not to the bed. Everything in the form of local and general treatment was tried, COMMON SENSE. 175 and tried again, but with nothing but a transient temporizing effect. It now being nine or ten years since her affliction com- menced, I applied abdominal support. Suffice it. to say, that her spirits and strength immediately returned, and in one week she rode daily, several miles, and one day walked the distance of three miles. Her attacks ceased to be much too frequent, and Avere not as severe. In short, she was a new woman. This case taught me much, and led me to see that more Avas yet to be discovered, and that our curative efficiency lay in very simple principles, and their application to the system. In this case, the Avheels (or parts) were all put in their proper place and apposition; this being done, the nerves became quiet, especially the nerves of organic life, whereby the ob- structions to the action of the vital energy were removed, giv- ing nature every chance to carry out her wonted intentions. Leucorrham, or Whites.—This malady does its full share in destroying female health and happiness, both by its unfor- tunate universality, and its destructive tendency. No age is exempt from it, and no internal remedy has hitherto been found to be specific for it. I shall not describe this affliction, but proceed to ask who they are that are afflicted by it? Experi- ence answers, that they who are subjected to it, almost always are more or less afflicted by prolapsus, pain in the back, laxity of muscle, nervous susceptibility and enfeebled energies of body. In short, they have more or less of the form of figure 4, and complain of most, or all, of the effects growing out of that form. These facts and coincidents should lead us to suspect an ' identity in their cause and progress. But this view of the sub- ject has seldom been taken, and it has more commonly been viewed and treated as a primary disease. Hence almost every variety of treatment has been adopted for its relief—the most potent drugs and with very doubtful success. I will, however, here remark, that there may be many causes, primary or sec- ondary, which may produce, or keep up, leucorrhcea, aside from that which I am about to explain. But to the question ; What is the cause and philosophy of leucorrhcea ? Let us see. We generally find that prolapsus precedes and accompanies it, to some extent at least. The pro- lapsus implies a depression of uterus into the vagina, as before shown. Of course, then, there will be of that organ an en- largement, a relaxation of its pores, or exhalants. It also will induce an exhaustion of the elasticity of the texture of the vagina. By this means an irritation in the vagina is kept up, induc- ing a mock suppuration in the form of leucorrhoea; this will soon act as a cause of itself, and an aggravation of the pro- 176 COMMON SENSE. lapsus. I appeal to the recollection and experience of the profession, and those afflicted with these difficulties, if they have not found, that in three-fourths of these cases, these symptoms do not accompany each other, and if they do not find the increase, or decline of one, always or generally cor- responds with the same position of the other? Again, the present history of the female health, from twelve years of age and upwards, is also the history of this disease; for few are the young who are not afflicted by it, and who are not droop- ing under its influence. I know them when I see them, if they apply for relief. You find that they are weak, have pain in the limbs, back and hips; that the appetite is capricious, the stomach more or less weak, and that all the physiologi- cal derangements heretofore described are evident. Now, in vieAV of these facts and coincidents, and in the light of common sense, I ask what are the indications of cure or relief? Are they founded in internal or external treatment, operating through the recuperative powers of the vital sus. ceptibility ? Or are they to be found in mechanical support, as taught throughout this work, replacing all the parts, re- storing all the relations, thereby removing all obstructions to the vital force and function ? Surely the latter is the true indicationfwhen the said mal-relations do really exist as cause or effect. I have been very conversant with this affection for many years, and have been pressed into the use of all the ordinary- treatments and remedies for it, and never found more than dubious good produced, and that very temporary. The tinc- ture of litta was among the most successful of them; the next tonics. The first operated by its counter irritation, ex- citing a revulsion, changing the action of the exhalants of the vagina for a time. The second operated by giving general tone to the fibres, thus doing what it could to replace the parts by the increased vigor of the fibres concerned in main- taming the due mechanical apposition. All of these good effects are, and Avill be, but partial and temporary, should you riot succeed in effecting a thorough reformation, or renovation in the general tone. Within the last three years I have had great experience in the effect of judicious abdominal support in this malady I found, that in making use of my lace for prolapsus and other diseases, of which I have spoken, many patients spoke of the perfect relief experienced from the leucorrhaa, which, at first, I did not understand; but the frequency of the above occur- rence drew my attention to the subject, and led me to my pres- ent pathology of it, and, of course, to see the modus operandi oi the curative agency of the lace. I now have it to say, that no more than one or two cases that have come under my obsei- COMMON SENSE. 177 yation, and the use of the lace, have failed to tie very essen- tially, if not permanently relieved. Should this view of the subject be correct, of what vast ac- count is it to the world, seeing that so large a portion of it are early undermined and oppressed by it, the whole powers of health being sapped thereby ? My feelings on this point are so impressive, that I am called upon to urge a hearty consid- eration of this subject upon those who see themselves begin- ning to be afflicted by this malady and its concomitants. The cases are so numerous, and the cure has become so mueh a matter of course, that I have failed to charge my mind with particular names of patients. I proceed to specify two or three, which may be considered as a. just representation of the whole. Let not those who are aware of the approach of this insidious monster, wait till they are broken down, or till they are compelled to do or suffer (for that time will surely come), but arrest it, and prevent the necessity of a great restoration. Many people strangely think, that if they can go about, 'tis folly or madness to do anything remedially, and thus pave their way slowly with abundant sorrow, and have the satis- faction of soon experiencing real and ample cause for atten- tion to health. Case 1. Mrs. W., of Pitts., Pa., aged 31, had been for years afflicted with leucorrhom, to a ruinous degree; her strength and spirits are gone ; her countenance became sunken and deject- ed. She was continually indisposed to move, and spent her time in weeping. Leucorrhaal discharge Avas continual and abundant; in short, she was but a wreck of what she had been, desiring to die, and refusing to be comforted. The lace was applied in her case, and in less than one week she inform- ed me that she was relieved of the malady, and that the change iu her body and mind was surprising ; indeed, it was obvious to all who looked upon her. In the short space of one week she superintended the female department of a large public-house. Case 2. Miss F. J. (unmarried) was a case nearly similar to the above; her Avhole surface had become blanched, cold and leaden; her limbs weak, tremulous and painful; her countenance dejected and despairing, and her form bent like fig. 4. All her former life and sociability were gone, and a kind of gloom and despair overspread her, in her appearance and in all her intercourse with the world. The leucorrhajal efflux Avas extreme and continual, until at length she was un- able to bear the motion of a gentle carriage, and even to walk across the room, without a continual tendency to fainting. Palpitation of the heart and dizziness Avere among the very troublesome symptoms. This lady applied the lace, and Avith- in one week after its application she informed me that not only 178 COMMON SENSE. were the effects of leucorrhcea, but all the symptoms just enu- merated, relieved, and that the leucorrhoeal discharge itself was dried up; this has beeri permanent in this and the other cases. Case 3. Mrs. G., Pa. (married), Avas an extreme case of leucorrhcea, for Avhich I had given powerful doses of tincture of lytta, the terebinthinates (the turpentine preparations), and all other remedies of rupture for this complaint, but with no real advantage. I Avill simply say that I will let the description of the above two cases ansAver for the description of this. The lace was applied, and the effect was instantly such as was expected and desired. I now leave this part of the subject, after invoking the atten- tion of mothers to the health of their daughters, and begging them to remember that they must prevent the first invasion of disease upon them by a careful training and timely attention to proper exercise and support, to be used as convenience or necessity may require, before the " evil days" come. Let the daughter also use freely the cold douche in the morning, the warm salt bath in the evening; take exercise freely in the open air, and in domestic labor. Let her, if this is not compatible, jump the rope, romp freely, and practise daily and regularly in calisthenic exercises. I particularly recommend the female gymnasiums. But, after all, such is the state of society, and so slack are all in systematical discipline, that they will not do any- thing effectually in this way, and I therefore expect the princi- pal advantage will be derived from the occasional use of the lace, keeping it on hand, as an appendage of the toilet, and used as any other article is used, viz., as circumstances require. (Edema, or Swelling of the Lower Extremities.—It is very com- mon for people, both male and female, to suppose themselves threatened by dropsy, on account of the swelling of the feet and legs, and they undergo great distress of mind, and severe treatment on the account and for the relief of it. Now, this may be real, and it may be not. I am bold to say, that unless there are unequivocal reasons from the other parts of the body to substantiate rhis supposition, there is no call for so much fear or for such active treatment. However, the patient can have no unfailing rule for a guide, and must be alive to all the facts and philosophy of the case. If there is a gravid state of the uterus, or tumors of weight in or on it; or if the patient be like, fig. 4, and complain of the sensations Avhich result from such a form, then I say that we need not fear dropsy, especially if we find the limbs AArell, or nearly so, in the morning, and gradually growing worse from morning until night. The pathology of such cases needs but one word in explana- tion to be fully understood and appreciated. The weight of COMMON SENSE. 179 the truncal organs, pressing upon the vessels which convey the transparent fluids up into the trunk, prevent the ascent, and of course induce an engorgement of it in the limbs, which is relieved on resuming the recumbent posture; or, in other words, on taking off the superincumbent weight. I shall not stop here to cite cases, as they are so common, but will simply say, that very many are the cases of this afflic- tion that have been relieved by the lace, although it was applied principally for the relief of other complaints. Varicose Veins.—Very many are the patients who complain of varicose (enlarged) veins. There are very many causes which induce this malady, and each cause needs attention according to the nature and extent of its operations, and no one remedy will relieve, when it is not adapted to the peculiar cause of the complaint. It is evident that in the case of a general relaxation or a gravid state of the uterus, that the veins must be compressed, and the blood thereby be obstructed in its ascent into the trunk, thus occasioning an engorgement in the veins. I was first led to reflect on this in the case of Mrs. B., who was in her eighth month of pregnancy, and who was exceedingly troubled with varicose veins, which were relieved by the application of the lace, applied for the relief of other specific inconveniences of pregnancy. I have had no particu- lar experience in this matter in ordinary cases, but am led to conclude that if abdominal support is applied (especially if the form and feelings of the body indicate it), before all the elasticity of texture of the veins is overcome, great benefit will be derived, if not a cure. At least, it will afford a great aid to the bandages and other proper means used for those cases. I recommend this idea to the immediate consideration of the pro- fession. Obesity or Fatness.—It is evident to all, that great increase of flesh or fat must increase the burden for the limbs, back, and the abdominal walls to bear, and that they who are loaded with this substance must feel the burden at the abdomen, as well as on the limbs. Such people feel considerable indisposition to sudden emotions, in consequence of the jolting of the viscera; in such a case complaining of weight in the lower belly and tenderness of the stomach, or in its region. Such people are especially incommoded in travelling or journeying, and are exercised, at night, with great fatigue and general soreness, as if the parts had been bruised. In seAreral such cases I have applied the lace with the most gratifying success. Its modus operandi must be obvious to all, and relief in such cases be expected There are many cases that have come under my observation illustrative of this view of thef%ubject, which I shall not take time to detail. ISO COMMON SENSE. The Use of the Lace on Subjects predisposed to, and afflicted by, Hernia or Ruptures.—At the lower abdomen, on each side of it, are two openings in the abdominal walls, through which pass certain cords, in both sexes, and these apertures are liable to relaxation or distension, by various means, whereby the bowel is made often to protrude like a sack, and produce a hernia, or rupture. This malady has many degrees of severity, and is often fatal, always rendering life very comfortless. The question is, what causes the enlargement of the ring and the protrusion, or any degree of protrusion ? It must be some force acting on the ring or opening, and sure it is that the ordinary weight of the abdominal contents, and the sudden descent on lifting, coughing, running or jumping, is that force ; thus we see that their pressure is the cause and their protrusion the effect. The cause being Avithin, and the effect without, the two following points next present themselves for consideration, viz., what will obviate the difficulty itself, and what Avill remedy it? These questions must be answered in the light of philosophy, and the operation of the cause. With reference to the preven- tion of the difficulty, I would say, that as it is the weight and encroachment of the organs against the ring that brings about its dilatation and the protrusion, of course the antidote will be to take and keep off the weight of the bowels from the weak part; and surely if this be effected, how can there be protrusion any longer? This cannot be done but by applying support to the abdom- inal muscles. Indeed, it is as evident as the light of day, that almost no cases of hernia would occur if in infancy and other periods of life, the dress were properly applied, so as to lift up the organs instead of pressing them down. In connection with this remark, I will just observe, that it is a curious fact, that in old times, and no older than sixty years ago, hernias were very rare, and it is well known that in those days the pants were worn without suspenders, and wrere cut Ioav, so as to bring the hip-band below the bilge of the abdomen, affording for the Avhole mass, and the abdominal rings, a support, in reality removing the distending and protruding influence of the abdominal fur- niture. If there is any truth in this reasoning, Avhat sort of a comment is it on the modern fashions of both male and female dress in this respect ? These remarks will lead the reader at once to see that persons of Aveak and lax habits should sup- port the loAver abdomen, covering each ring, and raising upAvard the whole visceral mass; and also that thereby, many of the terrible cases of rupture might and would be avoided. In reference to the second question, How shall the effect of protrusion be cured ? I would say, in short, that the foregoing remarks and views have already answered the question. But to make the view more impressive, I will ask, Which will the COMMON SENSE. 181 most effectually relieve and prevent the protrusion, to plug up the ring, or to support the whole mass, and prevent the ex- treme pressure on the rings. That is, shall we put on a truss, whose pad is convex, and tends to separate the walls of the ring, and only relieve by operating like a tap to a barrel of liquid, or shall we apply a uniform support to the abdomen, covering the rings, and elevating the whole mass, relaxing the muscles so that their texture draws them into due proximity ? That the latter course should be pursued is too obvious to need a word on the subject. I then unhesitatingly say, that the use of the lace, with a properly formed and adapted pad, will pre- vent many ruptures where there is a predisposition to them, and has relieved many ordinary ones. Bad ones it cannot; but in this case, where special pressure on the rings is required, it should be combined with a general abdominal support, to re- lieve as much as is possible the general weight, and lessen the demand for special pressure on the hernial rings. My experience is full on this point, and many cases attest the truth of these positions. I therefore advise those who feel increasing weakness in the lower abdomen, and some prickling pain, to be alarmed for the approach of a rupture, and apply a lace, in which case it probably never will actually occur. Let those who have ruptures apply a lace with a large front pad, and then apply the hernial pads over the front one, and let them come a little below the large one; by this means both general and special support is rendered. To this end I have constructed a set of pads and springs, which efficiently apply to every variety of rupture, not interfering with the common arrangement and application of the lace. One spring is long, passing into the groins, where occurs one of the most difficult ruptures to keep reduced. It can be shoved along the main spring from right to left by turning the screw to the clasp ; and the pad can be moved up or down by means of a slat at the lower end of the spring; so that We can have the pad where we please and of what shape we please, Avithout affecting the bearing or position of the main-spring. We can have what strength or pressure we please, by increasing the.stiffness and curvature of this little spring. Case 1. Miss G., a young lady in Pennsylvania, had been confined five years to the house by a femoral hernia, or rupture in the groin. The sac, or protrusion, was near the size of a goose egg. It required considerable pressure to return it, and, on removing the fingers, it would protrude again with force. In this case every variety of truss had been perseveringly tried to no effect. The surgeon one day remarked to me, that if 1 could make an instrument that would cure femoral hernia, my " Jack would be made," and stated the case of this lady. I at 16 182 COMMON SENSE. once conceived the idea, and on second trial, succeeded to a charm. For ventral hernia (or rupture of or at the navel), the lace, in connection Avith a spring and pad running from the main-spring, in front, and upAvards to the navel, will, and must, be efficient in relieving it, as we may have the pad large or small, and of any shape, the pressure hard or gentle, just as we please, with- out moving or interfering with the main-spring, it, all the while, sitting like a saddle, unmoved, and supporting the trunk. If there is the common rupture in one or both of the sides of the lower belly, then one or two springs, just as is necessary, can be dropped from the main-spring over the front pad, with small pads on their lower ends, to press firmly on the rupture, and assist the large pad. By this arrangement, if it is perseveringly carried out, and with discretion, we cannot fail of succeeding, as we can com- mand any amount oi powefE' and any direction oi force, without moving the main-spring, aricrthis cannot be done in the case of any other instrument now in use. Again, in common trusses there is but one pad or strap behind, giving irritation, excoriation and uneasiness, allowing the front pad to rise up or fall doAvn; but in taking the lace for the foundation of every truss, we have not only one pad, but four, with three other redeeming qualities, viz., they divide the pressure into four points, they are moveable every day, and they present a broad and large surface for pressure, act- ing as a steadier, or confiner, to the front pad, preventing its rising or descent. Again, none of the springs or pads press on a bony surface I believe the time is at hand when the lace (so far as it is made knoAvn to the faculty) will be the instrument used both for general support and as a foundation for hernial appliances, affording as it does, or may, more advantages than any other, and avoiding all of their disadvantages. But for those Avho are threatened with ruptures, the lace is a perfect defence, and of immense value. Especially in children will it be of great use (when they are weak and lax in fibre) in preventing rupture. Prolapsus Uteri.—As this disease has become so common and general, both with the young and unmarried as well as with others, and as so few dream of the true nature of their difficulty, and of the requisite remedy, or of its necessary application, I will give a succinct description of the malady, leaving out many of the associated symptoms which usually accompany, and wnich have been portrayed and explained in the different parts of this work. Generally, the complaint will come on by degrees. The patient begins to lose her powers of endurance, more and more, COMMON SENSE. 183 the back begins to ache before noon, or night, and this may exist in every variety of degree, even to terrible pain, Avrangling and twisting, and making the back feel as if it were broken, or pounded or drawn. This is generally in the region of the kid- neys, or small of the back, and may be distressingly severe in the sacrum (or rump bone), low down, feeling like a pressing, bearing down, or dragging. The patient also will feel a sense of dragging in the groins, a twisting and wringing, which, in connection with the sense of weight, or pressing, at the base of the belly, renders the sufferer often so miserable, that she sits down in the midst of her cares, and cries out in anguish and despair. She moves carefully, and holds herself with the hand at the lower part of the body, to prevent being jarred or jolted. She walks bent over to avoid that dragging in the breast, and goneness in the stomach, which is such a constant attendant on this affliction. The limbs will often experience cramps, or spasmodic movements, and the hips also attended with severe pain. There will be great wrangling sensations in the limbs, as though the flesh would cleave off; or this may alternate with numbness, or prickling sensations. Although she may be somewhat smart in the morning, or on certain days, yet the limbs generally will, by noon, become heavy and clumsy, and move painfully; the patient will feel as though the hips were loose, and that brisk movements would be attended with injury, and great displacement of the internal organs. Whites and costiveness will usually attend the above troubles, and also swelling of the feet and limbs, ever and anon. These, and other symptoms not here mentioned, may and do exist in endless varieties of degree; more commonly in a moderate and endurable degree, so that the patient can go about attending to her ordinary avocations, but suffering more or less. This is especially the case with those young ladies who are ignorant of the true character of the complaint, and know only how uncomfortable they are, and not how much they need support, nor hoAV much they are undermining their constitu- tions, and unfitting themselves for future usefulness. While on this point, let me say to my young female readers who feel that they are beginning to come under this description, do not deceive and abuse yourselves; you conceal from both mother and doctor the facts, because you suppose that such afflictions usually belong to the connubial state, and that, should you make known your true state, wrong impressions as to your chastity and purity would be entertained. It is not so, my young friend; this malady is not of local origin or perpetuity. It is not the least indication, one way or the other, on the point conceived; it is but the result of a relaxation of the mus- 184 COMMON SENSE. cles and ligaments of the trunk generally, which is as likely to afflict the young and chaste girl, as the old or married woman. Then cease to abuse yourselves on this point; fly to relief early, and arrest the stealthy destroyer with a light, cheerful andinnocent heart. Do not delay it till you are compelled to act, and have thus rendered the hope of success more du- bious. Let me urge you to turn back to the preceding part of this work, and read the remarks on the physiology of the pelvic organs ; then you will be prepared to go along with me in the following directions and argument. You will recollect that this organ enjoys more support than is provided for the liver, an organ of twenty times its weight. You will recollect that this great strength is designed by nature to assist in sustaining the abdominal contents and the weight of the womb in the four first months of pregnancy. Of course you conclude that the cause of the falling was pressure above, and not want of original ligamentous power to sustain the uterus. Of course, then, we conclude that support applied be- low did not apply to the cause, and was neither philosophical, physiological, pathological nor successful. Therefore you are prepared to see that we advise all such patients to apply a lace, and thus take off all pressure from the womb, leaving it to rise by the returning strength of the relieved natural uterine supports. Here we have come to a controverted point, and the contro- versy lies between the comparative curative merit of the pes- sary and external support. We Avill give our treatment of this complaint, and then at- tend to the objections urged against it. In every complication, variety, or degree of this disease, we advise the immediate, judicious application of the lace, with a strength suited to the peculiarity of the patient. Let it fit neatly, and feel perfectly comfortable, or else exchange it for another. Be careful not to Avear it too long on its first application, or you may become irritated, made sore and restive, especially if there be tenderness of the abdomen; use at first a gentle instru- ment, and at intervals; and by prudence, and the use of the lace and the folloAving means, the patient will recover health and spirits. As there Avill generally be manifest a diseased condition of the chest and abdomen, as well as of the pelvis, it Avill be requisite for her to use faithfully the means laid down for their relief, viz.: She must be in the daily habit of brushing the abdomen and back thoroughly. Let her knead or cham- poo the abdomen in an upward direction, increasing the force as she can bear it. Let her commence taking moderate exer- cise in a carriage, and increase in activity as the powers of life arise. Let her cultivate the habit of constantly sitting COMMON SENSE. 185 erect, and throAving back her shoulders. Never let her lace her waist at all. Let her rise early and take the air, and to re- tire early will be of advantage, and if she obtain her own con- sent to lay aside her tea and coffee, she will be much the gain- er. By pursuing this course, in conjunction with common prudence, every patient Avill be restored from a confinement of even many years, to perfect health. But here we are met Avith several objections to our pre- scriptions. They also come from sage personages and grey heads, whose authority it is in general not very safe to deviate from. We will honestly state the objections below, and an- swer them just as conscientiously as Ave state them. First, we are met at the threshold, and told that our patholo- gy of the disease is incorrect, that the complaint is caused by a weakness of the uterine supports, and that the round and broad ligaments do not act as a support to the uterus. Now, concerning the assertion that the malady does proceed from primary weakness of the ligaments, we only refer you to our anatomical remarks, and to this fact, that taking off abdominal weight always will relieve the patient. Secondly, as to whether the round and broad ligaments do support the uterus perpetually, we say that reason pronounces this attempt to show that they do not, to be more ingenious than useful or wise. We have only two reasons to urge in support of the fact that all the uterine ligaments constantly assist in sustaining the womb. First, when I see a body sus- pended in space, and attached to several firm and fixed points, by one or more ropes or tissues, my common sense tells me that they are all concerned in the support of that organ or body; some may yield more support than others, but they will, in their place, be considered as the suspensory powers of that body But especially will we be drawn to this conclusion, when we can see no other important function for these con- necting organs to perform. But again, if these organs were not designed to be the perpetual and proper supports of the uterus, why is it that the descent of this organ is generally at- tended with the dragging pain in the groins, where the round ligaments are inserted? and Avhy is this general relaxation so universally accompanied by that dragging, grinding pain, and weakness in the lumbar region, the very region where the broad ligaments are dispersed ? There can be no other reason than that these ligaments are put upon the stretch, and their insertions are the extreme points of resistance, producing these peculiar feelings that are diagnostic of a mal-position of the pelvis and abdomen. , The next objection is, that external support does no good, that it presses as much upon the uterus as it presses off, and that they have seen these supports do mischief. 16* 186 COMMON SENSE. In reply to this, we say, that most gladly would we rest Una point upon facts, for the profession and the world to judge; but as it cannot be brought universally before the sense of either the profession or the people, we return to the physiology of the human system. The point to be settled is, if prolapsus proceed from the superincumbent weight of the bowels, can any external support relieve this pressure ? We say that most assuredly it can, as is proved by a multitude of facts corrobo- rative, and by physiological points. First, it will be remem- bered that the posterior floor of the abdomen, or brim of the pelvis, is very considerably higher than the pubes, or anterior part of the abdominal floor, or brim of the pelvis. Conse- quently, the peritoneum, or lining membrane of the belly, that is stretched across the brim of the pelvis, forming the floor of the abdomen, is much higher at rear than front, and looks obliquely forward and doAvnward, like one side of the roof of a house. Hence we see that this form would facilitate the pad of the lace, which lifts upward and backward—in getting between the floor and the bowels, and allowing the latter to rest upon it. But here again we are met with another objection, to wit: That the weakness of the muscles is not the cause of the mal- position, but that it is a relaxation of the ligaments. That the latter is not the fact, is proved by the invariable relief to these complaints by the application of pressure upward and back- ward. But again; if judicious pressure, imitating the action of the muscles, will not relieve the patient, then we are placed between the horns of a difficulty, as we will now clearly show. It has been admitted, that the natural action of the abdomi- nal muscles, when in health, and all acting in concert, is up- ward and backward; it is also admitted, that they are the actual organs that do support the viscera, and perpetually preserve their determinate form and position. It will of course then be admitted, that the more healthy and elastic these organs are, the more perfectly will they effect this perpetual elevation and protection of the pelvic viscera. Now, if this be the case, the inverse ratio of strength and activity of these muscles will be attended by an inverse action on the viscera, to wit, gra- vitation, thus proving that a relaxation of the abdominal muscles will act as an exciting and perpetuating cause of pro- lapsus. But again; if a judicious upward and backward pressure be applied, and produce as much pressure downward as upward, then of course, by parity, the more healthy the abdominal muscles are, and the more active and elastic they are, the more will they tend to produce prolapsus, by pressing part of the boAvels more forcibly on the uterus. The con- clusion is a fair one, and necessarily compels us to decide that a relaxation of the abdominal muscles mav be the cause of COMMON IENSE 187 prolapsus, and general malposition of the abdominal and pec- toral organs, and that external support, like that supplied by the lace, will relieve these effects; or else, that the more healthy the muscles of the abdomen are, the more perfect will be the prolapsus. This latter conclusion would be so ridiculous, that no one would consent to its tenability. But we are met here by another objection of a very grave character, which has an actual existence in theory, but not in practice, in the case under consideration, to wit; it is admitted, say some, that ex- ternal support does give immediate relief, but that it does it in an unscientific manner, and in opposition to a known law of the vital economy; i. e., they say, that a temporary relief is gained at the expense of a permanent evil; to wit: that if you do mechanically or artificially perform the function that an organ should perform vitally, you will increase the torpor of that or- gan ; its stimulus for action being withdrawn, it will rest on the support, and finally lose its tone entirely. This is phy- siologically and theoretically true, and in accordance with a law of the human economy, and when applied to muscles in health, as when the farmer or blacksmith lay by their calling, and bandage their muscles up to support their bodies, and take no exercise, they will dwindle, and become weak; or if you apply support to a patient, and compel him or her to take no exercise to strengthen the system, and give her not the ad- vantage of every invigorating circumstance, of course the present relief will be followed by the effect stated in the ob- jection. But in the present case, the situation is far different; we come not to a well person, but a sick one, who is laboring under both local and general muscular relaxation, and its effects ; these effects have become very aggravated, and now both the effects and the cause co-operate, enfeebling the patient very much; so much so, that the very exercise that is calculated to relieve her (even the most gentle carriage exer- cise), aggravates the difficulty, and increases the patient's misery ; and that too, just in proportion to the effort she makes. The fact is, she is ineligible to those most efficient natural cu- rative means, and something must be done to give her the ad- vantage of the means that nature has pointed out to relieve her. Now, how shall Ave do this ? Common sense says, bind her up, that she fall not to pieces ; hold her comfortably together, by imitating the primitive relation, and by this means she will bear to be moved briskly into the air, and into society, and soon will endure bodily exertion, and unconsciously will find every fibre gaining tone. But again, the well ones, say you, will get into a habit of wearing it ? What v/ould our patients say to us, were we to address them in the following language, which is the spirit of the scientific objection ? This is it. My friend, you now are 188 COMMON SENSE. laboring under great distress, and have been for years, in con- sequence of a loss of vitality and energy in some of your organs, producing general displacement of all the organs of your trunk. You have been thus ill for a long time, and I, among others, have tried my utmost to render efficient relief, by pessaries, tonics, anti-spasmodics, and all other remedies that promised relief; but I am compelled to say, that my re- sources are exhausted. To be sure, I know of a very simple and comfortable remedy, that would afford instantaneous relief to you; relieve your spirits, relieve your pains, and enable you to exercise, and go into the air, and into society, and while you use it, almost make you forget your troubles. But I must warn you against its use* for there is great danger of your getting into a habit of depending on it, and finally can't go without it.—Now considering that she has for years had no- thing out a liabit of enduring pain, and no prospect before her but to keep that habit, having been kept scientifically sick all this time, and all this in sight of comfort, only for the danger of the habit of being comfortable,—what language would ex- press her indignation at this savage, scientific inconsistency ? Or if a patient, convalescing from an intermitting or remitting fever, had got able to walk into the invigorating air, by the aid of a cane, should be told, Not so ; you must wait till the pow- ers of the system are able to carry you, or you will relax your weak muscles by depending on your cane, depriving them of the stimulus of exertion; you will also get in a habit of using it, and lasting evil will be the consequence. Who would not be indignant at this ? or who would father such a position' Yet the opposers of judicious abdominal support do actually lie under the same dilemma. But they say they do not, as the cases of the most protracted prolapsus are not thus ineligible to exercise, even without support. We say they are ; and the perpetual sighs of millions continually say that they are ; and common observation says they often are; and anatomy says they may be; and the success of the lace, in relieving the oldest and most obstinare cases of prolapsus, proclaims the childishness and obstinacy of those that oppose this simple and mechanical means of relief; opposing it simply because facts run contrary to sainted antiquity, high names, and the speculations of science. These things are very pretty, but they cost too many lives, too many groans, and too much suffering and pain to be any longer cherished. O that I had the power of tearing away the hypothetical veil, and of shoAving in cap- tivating relief, the full ranks of facts, as they have occurred in the world, in opposition to the usages of former writers. We noAV assume the offensive, and proceed to prove that these last objections are futile and reprehensible What is the course and view of those who advocate the COMMON SENSE. 189 objections just attended to ? It appears to be this; that pro- lapsus is a primary disease, existing in the uterus or its liga- ments ; and that all the attendant affections of the stomach, side, heart, lungs and head, and in fact the whole nervous system, are the result of sympathy, and not of natural and tangible causes, as explained in our physiological and patho- logical remarks; consequently they say that it is a local disease, and that the remedies should be applied to the seat and origin of the complaint; and that as descent of the uterus is characteristic of the complaint, of course, to elevate the organ, is the true indication. Of course, then, the only means of elevating this organ is to place a prop below, to sustain it, thereby carrying it to its natural position. Indeed this has been the practice for many years, and extolled by the loftiest heads, and proudest names of the profession,—and in many cases, where the case was not aggravated, or of long standing, or accompanied with general torpor, or atrophy of the muscles, this means, in conjunction Avith invigorating constitutional remedies and exercise, has done much good; but this does not prove its expediency or validity ; and as we proceed, Ave will show that the probability is, that it has done more hurt than,good in the point of health, to say nothing of other objec- tions to its use, which we will attend to. Now if this be correct, efficient, and scientific practice, let us examine into the condition of things. First, the objection to our supporting the viscera by mechanical means was, that it tends to weaken the powers of life, by doing mechanically what should be done vitally. Now let us candidly examine how it is that the pessary produces its boasted relief. Does it not do it by mechani- cally doing for the uterus, what its ligaments ought to do vitally ? Does this not constantly tend to Aveaken those liga- ments, by doing away the necessity for their own action, allowing them to become more torpid ? for it is alleged that their previous debility was the cause of the descent. Most certainly this is the case in one instance as Avell as in the other. So we see that the stupid objection on physiological grounds, applies as much to the pessary as to the external support. Then, so far as the danger of mechanical support is concerned in the argument, the matter is neutralized ; leaving the decision to be made up from facts and other points in the case. Again, it is said that the vagina is the principal support of the uterus, by contracting itself, like an India rubber tube. For argument's sake, Ave say, let it go at that, and we Avill pass on to scrutinize a little further. If, when there is prolapsus, there is generally a relaxed and dilated vagina, and this state of that organ will stand as the cause of the descent, Avhat is the natural effect or action of the pessary on these parts ? It appears to be this; that it perpetuates and aggravates the cause, i. e.,the relaxa- 190 COMMON SENSE. tion of the vagina, by occupying the utmost diameter of this organ, destroying its elasticity, and adding to its primary relaxa- tion. It also acts as a foreign substance there, irritating the nerves of organic life, and provoking them to an unnatural action; this is followed by fluor albus which in turn, acts as an exciting cause, both of itself and of the relaxation, perpetuating procidentia and general debility. Now we ask, which course looks the most rational? Which course holds out the most natural prospect of relief, and acts the most in accordance with the normal relations of the system ? Which course seems best calculated to conciliate the deranged nervous system, and to beckon back the powers of life to their wonted relation and action ? Or, to say nothing of the amount of relief effected, which produces the wonted relief at the least expense, or with the fewest evils ? The facts in the case, and reason, instantly reply, that our rational view should be preferred, until it is proved to be of no avail. Again; let us view the comparative merits of the two prac- tices, to wit, by external support and exercise, or by constitu- tional treatment and the introduction of a pessary, in another point of view, and see if in this view there can be but one voice on the subject, even allowing that one mode of treatment is not paramount to the other in point of efficiency. First, constitutional treatment—what is it ? It is but an application to some of the reflected or extended effects of the physical and primary cause. But of the pessary, what is associated with it in all its considerations ? The very nature of the subject pre- cludes a full examination of its peculiarities and associations. But who are they who must wear the pessary ? The mothers and the daughters, the fair sex, the virtuous, the modest, the diffident; those who hold female peculiarity as a pearl, depos- ited in the secret archives of the female cabinet. Who are they ? They are our mothers, our wives, our sisters, and our daughters. And again we ask, who are they ? Ask your ob- servation of things and events, and you will see who and what they are; something which, constitutionally, intellect- ually, morally, and intrinsically, is better conceived of than described. But to make the matter perfectly obvious in its comparative merit, let us slightly contemplate Avhat is embraced in the use of the pessary. First, it implies as a general rule, that both mothers, wives, sisters and daughters, on suspicion of existing prolapsus, must submit to an actual inquisition (not exactly ocular, but next to that); this itself seems like an unhallowed entrance Avithin the veil, i. e., of female sanctity. But by whom is this inquisition instituted ? by her, or them- selves, who often blush at the contemplation of themselves ? (h No. Is it by a father, or a husband, or a brother ? No; but * by a stranger; perchance a devil, with no sympathy for his pa- COMMON SENSE. 191 tient, or sense of moral obligation; and what gives edge to the matter is, that it does not take place under imminent danger or racking pain; but in a state of exalted nervous sensibility, and comparative health, at all times and hours of the day. But again;' the bitter part is to come; for it is now a fact, that the unmarried, from fifteen years upward, as well as married females, labor under the class of diseases under consideration, and require the same means of cure. Now, to say nothing of the mental torture of the poor and chaste virtuous girl,—are even rough fathers, brothers, and husbands, prepared to like it? No, it is always attended by a sort of submissive, but humbled pride. Again, considering it in its moral tendency, it is truly demoralizing in its nature. Previous to submission, the poor creatures would give everything if they could avoid it, they feel as though they were about to be ruined; yea, to be offered on the altar of degradation; but once done, the die is cast, the relief obtained or not, the mental anguish is over, and the matter sinks in her imagination; it becomes a necessity, a common occurrence ; she noAV has the outer strong door to the beautiful temple of chastity broken down, or severely tried; I mean the door or bar of female delicacy and suspicion. Her acute feeling is blunted, fine feeling put to sleep; whatever the doctor says, soon becomes a law, and a matter of course; and the sprightly, roguish, and blithe countenance of the young girl, is exchanged for the premature gravity and tameness of the mother, who has been stricken by all the accumulated and incidental exigencies and peculiarities of the connubial state (I only speak of tendencies). But I leave the subject now; it is enough; when the matter is duly considered, there will be but one voice. As this subject has been shown, not only does it appear that we, by the use of external support, avoid these moral objections, but we instantly, and more perfectly, obtain the desired object; extending not only to the local affections, but to tile reflected and extended associations also. I now proceed to detail a few out of the hundreds of suc- cessful cases of the application of the lace in the different de- grees and varieties of this affliction. The cases are so numer- ous, and all so satisfactory, that I am at a loss how to detail, or Avhat selection to make. Case 1. Mrs. C, Pennsylvania, married, had aborted once, and had been for years confined to her bed, and could not be moved but in the horizontal position. She could not sit up without a tendency to faint, and complained of all the symp- toms peculiar to prolapsus. Everything that talent, and inge- nuity could suggest, or money procure, had been tried, but nothing seemed to afford more than temporary relief. The lace was applied, and in the space of one day, every difficulty wa9 reheved, and in the space of a week, by aid of her hus- 192 COMMON SENSE. band's arm, she walked to a neighbor's. Ina few months she did her own work, and in one year bore a fine boy. She has since been as smart as other people. Case 2. Miss J., of Pennsylvania, unmarried, aged 19, was beautiful, had been the devoted child of pleasure, and the ob- ject of admiration. By degrees she became pale and weak, bowed forward, dyspeptic, and unable to endure much. Her limbs were extremely weak and tremulous, also bloated at times; her back ached continually, her hips were very weak, and subject to cramps on the slightest motion, and the groins and loAver abdomen experienced great sense of pressure and weight. The stomach partook largely of the effect of the dis- placement, and so great was the nervous disturbance, that she could not ride in a chaise, and scarce walk the floor, without fainting. All treatment failed, and she was supposed to be doomed to consumption. The abdomen was very flaccid and fallen, as in Fig. 4. The lace was applied, and in an instant the pain in the back was relieved, and she was able to walk comfortably. In four days after, I called, and she was about well, so far as ease and ability were concerned. She is now a hearty girl, and restored to society. This case was the as- tonishment of the neighborhood. Case 3. Mrs. B., of Pittsburg, Pennsylvania, married, was a miserable case of prolapsus, and had been so for years. She informed me that she had felt alarmed for the influence of her countenance on her rising family, as it was so despairing and horror-stricken by continual gloom and pain. Her limbs were almost powerless, and she " had not walked to church in the city for four years." Had such a pain in her back, and bear- ing down upon the lower extremity of the back bone, that she could not sit without raising her feet up on the table, and tilting back the body, thus taking off the weight of the organs from the parts below. The flabbiness of her abdominal walls was very remarkable. The lace was applied, and in the space of an hour, she walked to the market and back, without any fatigue or pain. She has since informed me that one thousand dollars per year would not purchase the privilege of wearing her lace. Case 4. Mrs. C, of Pittsburg, Pennsylvania, had for years been unable to attend to her domestic concerns, and was un- der medical treatment almost continually, but to no avail. The stomach was much .retracted, the abdomen exceedingly flabby, the bowels lying on the bones below, the weakness, or sense of separation in the hips was great, the limbs were almost use- less, the whites excessive, the costiveness very great, and the sense of weight and bearing down was insufferable in the sit- % ting or standing attitude. The lace was applied in her case, and I knew no more of her COMMON SENSE. 193 for about one year, when I called on her, and found her re- stored to health, and attending to, or rather superintending, a large public establishment. Her husband informed me, that the price of that lace had done more for her than all the hun- dreds he had ever paid for doctoring before. Case 5. Mrs. L., and Miss M., Philadelphia, were two cases exactly alike. So extreme was their general muscular laxity, that they could walk but few steps; and so great was the general displacement, that it appeared that they both must be, or have been laboring under consumption. The heart partook very largely of the effects, and the stomach also. All the symptoms and effects of prolapsus were extreme. In these cases the lace was applied, and in two Aveeks they were nearly restored. Their lips had become red, their countenances flushed, their forms erect, their respiration full and easy, the heart quiet, and the strength and locomotive powers were much improved. Case 6. Mrs. C, Comiecticut, had been confined to the bed or house for two years, had spent a large amount of money, employing the best and most reputed of the faculty of the country, and had rather grown worse. . Her doctors told her that she must leave the sea air, which she was preparing to do. At this time she could walk across the room with great effort, but serious inconvenience was always the consequence. She had also worn some of the most popular supporters, and was then wearing one. I applied the lace, after finding that the feel and form of the body seemed to exactly call for it. She arose at once and walked across the room, and around it several times with such ease, that she exclaimed, "Are you a witch ?" and the little daughter followed behind with clasped hands, and a countenance full of joy, saying that " She would send her pink dress to the doctor's little girl, because he had cured mother." In the space of two or three days she was cheerfully visiting in the village. Case 7. Mrs. K., Pennsylvania, had for years been confined to her house, and for six months had not been able to stand. She, of all cases, was most perfect in laxity and its consequent deformity. I applied the lace, and she immediately rose, and walked with but little help. I have since received a letter from her husband, declaring his high estimation of the lace, and acknowledging the great benefit it has been to his wife. Case 8. Mrs. B., Ct., had for many years been the subject of perpetual treatment; sometimes for liver complaint, some- times for consumption, at other times for dyspepsy, dropsy, spinal disease, etc., etc. Her abdomen was nothing but per- fect laxity, and to use the language of one of her friends, " felt like a bag of apple sauce." She had told her doctors that she was not sick, but that if they would let her see them 17 194 COMMON SENSE. dissect a human subject, she could tell them where and what was the difficulty. Says she, " it is a hanging or pull- ing feeling which seems to draw everything down." The lace was applied to her, and she rose and stood upon her feet, to her own perfect astonishment. Soon she walked, and became a comfort to herself and others. Case 9. Mrs. B., Vt., had for fourteen years been confined to her bed; she could not sit, or bear the jolting produced by walking across the floor. Her mind was terribly depressed, almost to mania. Her muscles were nothing but a mass of tissue, almost without any animate action. The hand could grasp up any quantity of them. The sensation on attempting to sit was that of inexpressible horror, dragging, and all the other symptoms heretofore delineated. She had been untiring in her applications to the best of the medical faculty, and to no good purpose, until her confidence and hope were exhausted, and her comforts all fled. To aggravate her misery, her friends and gossiping sisters whispered that " she might do better it she pleased." Her repugnance to seeing any doctor was great, and her unbelief very obstinate, so that it was only in com- pliance to the Avishes of her kind husband that she consented to have the lace applied. It, however, was applied, and she rose to a chair immediately, and exclaimed, " Now, for the first time, I sit without feeling such a death-like sickness or goneness at my stomach!" In the space of one week she walked the room and dressed herself, a thing which she had not done for many years. Her spirits were improved, her courage in- creased, and her hopes were reanimated. In about six weeks she was able to walk the house, and in two months commenced attention to her domestic affairs, as I am informed. This case made much excitement, and was the topic of much gossip, and the cause of the returning hopes and health of many desponding people in a like condition. But why prolong the detail, since the cases are endless, and the salutary issue so uniform. In all cases of this nature, and, indeed, in all cases requiring the use of the lace, though benefit will be received from the same, yet with a view to entire recovery, and to the laying aside the lace, patients should be vigilant in the practice of those physical exercises (previously described), they being calculated to restore the flagging energies of the organs in fault, and ena- ble them to perform their proper tasks, by and through their own inherent poAyer to do it. COMMON SENSE. 195 CHAPTER III. THE PROPER EXERCISES, OR PHYSICAL AND HABITUAL TREATMENT OF THE BODY--THE PERNICIOUS TENDENCY OF MODERN PRACTICES IN MANY ITEMS OF DRESS—MALE DRESS—FEMALE DRESS. In closing this interesting subject, i. e. muscular .relaxation, what shall I say ? I see that millions in our world are labor- ing under some degree or variety of this malady, producing al- most everything else, for Avhich the patient takes any amount of constitutional remedies for affections supposed to exist, but which do not, lingering out a cheerless, useless life, which might be rendered useful and happy by a simple mechanical support. I am depressed in spirits and sick at heart. I behold many such medicated to death, while, at the same time, the cause and perpetuity of their affliction is not under the cognizance or within the orbit of internal remedies, or any thing that ope- rates through the living susceptibility only. But this Avorld is, and ever has been, bent on seeking far from home for knowledge, practically acting out the conduct of Naaman, the Syrian, who was angry with the holy prophet because he prescribed so simple a cure, so easy of acquisition, so cheap and unassuming. Or, in another view, they carry out the old adage, that whatever is far-fetched and dear-bought is the best. Let us, then, cease Avrangling and speculating about the vital principle and other points about which Ave know nothing, and employ and ply our gross senses on things and topics that are tangible to them, and upon which Ave can bring some action to bear, after having arrived at some correct prin- ciples to act upon. Let us not be too high-minded, but let us be busy in picking up the little things which -make up the elements and aggregate of the great. Let observation of facts and coincidents be the great study; then let us lay these along-side ot reason and hypothesis, and if they will agree, then so be it; but if they do not, then let the facts and coincidents stand; yea, I say—stand. Or, in other words, let us not " despise the day of small things;" and let us " take the foxes, the little foxes, that spoil the vines, for our vines have tender grapes." Let us learn that the secret of health is to preserve it, and that by an active, prudent and virtuous life, directed by the laws of nature and of our chemi- cal, mechanical and vital economy. Let us learn also that life and health is a beautiful chain, made up of ten thousand links and natural dependencies, and that one of them being broken modifies and disturbs the functions and beauty of the whole. 196 COMMON SENSE. Let us not forget that when disease has come, it has generally been the result of a violation of the above material considera- tions, and of course is the rather to be remedied by those means that are naturally calculated to soften the effects, and restore the primitive, tangible relations. Or, in other words, let us practically bear in mind that in all cases there should be some analogy between both the cause, operation, and cure of a disease. The pernicious tendency of modern practices in many items of Dress.—On this subject books might be written, but I shall here only glance at some of the mistakes in modern fashion: nor do I now have any reference to the practice of lacing, but desire to show the natural tendency of the fashionable cut of many garments which are commonly worn in society. And before particularizing, I will briefly present to the reader the general intentions of nature with reference to the reciprocal bearings of all the truncal organs. We have seen, in the prosecution of our subject, that nature has ordained that there should be a physical levity as well as a moral one. Or, in other words, that both our souls and bo- dies should Avar against gravity. We also see that such is our physical arrangement, that all of our organs are crowded to- gether, and that from below upAvards, through the elevating agency of the elastic abdominal muscles. By this arrangement we see that in proportion as the abdominal muscles are active, they must compress the abdominal organs, and of course lift them up, correspondingly diminishing the size of the abdomen; or, in other words, diminishing it at its lower region, and en- larging it at the waist or its upper region, thus producing an in- verse action on the chest or upper trunk, by supporting the heart and lungs, pressing apart the opposite ribs. We of course see that all our actions, habits and dress, should tend to imitate and sustain this proportion, as to size and state, or at least we see that these should not exert the least reverse tendency. I will now make a few general remarks on the striking con- trast between the cut and operation of the different garments of this and the former century. I have reference to their ne- cessary tendency on the mechanical physiology. Male Dress—The Pantaloons.—We find that they, in former generations, were made with flowing fullness, admitting of free and perfect motion in the knee. We next find that they seldom wore suspenders, but had the body part of the pants cut short, so as only to cover the hips. Again, we find that they buttoned snugly around the lower trunk, below the bilge of the abdomen, acting thereby as a support to the whole mass, and also the inguinal openings, where ruptures (or hernias) protrude, and it is a curious fact, that, in by-gone generations, there were but few instances of hernia, dyspepsy, or hypo- COMMON SENSE. 197 chondria; but now, they are the order of the day. Let us compare this garment, cut and worn as it is in the present day, Avith the former fashion and effects. We now see the legs cut small, prescribing the motions of the limbs. We see them strapped doAvn, producing too much perpetual pressure on the surfaces of the knee joint. We next see a long body part, rising and buttoning above the bilge of the abdomen, around the short ribs, and held up by suspenders, thus tending to approximate the head to the feet. We see again how differ- ent is the effect on the form of the trunk and the primitive re- lations of the truncal organs; for if they touch the trunk at all, they press downwards, putting the abdominal muscles upon the continual tax to resist the downward pressure ; yet, never- theless, this pressure will succeed in overcoming the efficiency of the muscles, and urge gently, yet surely, the organs down- wards, producing all the specific effects of such an action. We also find that it is assisted in this work of derangement by the straps, which most effectually keep the belly pressed in. Again: it is not difficult to see what must be the slow, but sure tendency on the organs of the chest. First, it tends to draw down the shoulders and compress the chest, confining it in a depressed condition, thereby compressing the lungs, prevent- ing their free expansion through the use of the intercostal muscles. Just observe, then, how the whole order of mechani- cal physiology is perseveringly undermined, and not a single comfort gained in return. The Vest.—In old times this garment was cut loose and long, more like a wrapper, adapted in its length to the cut of the pants. But now it comes only down to a point just above the proper place of the abdominal bilge, and is worn at least so tight that it tends to crawl upwards, and look very undignified, aiding in the unfortunate action of the pants, to restrict the development of the size and functions of the chest, and to depress the abdomen. Or, in other words, producing a partial separation between the pectoral and abdominal organs—a very unnatural dissolution, by the bye. The Coat.—This garment in olden time partook of the con- venience, utility and dignity of the rest of the apparel. It was large, loose and flowing, not pinching or compressing any- where, giving the middle-aged and venerable men a patriarchal look and mien, that commands reverential respect to this day. But how is it now-a-days ? Why, it must be what is called a close ft, a perfect frame, compressing the chest, acting like an outer band to strengthen the two inner ones, thereby the more effectually inverting every physiological arrangement of a tangible character. Female Dress.—On this subject I am not so competent to spe- cify, as I have never acquainted myself with the peculiarities 17* 198 COMMON SENSE. of oriental female dress, neither have I the privilege of know- ing all about the articles of female attire, at this day; but one thing I do know, that once female health Avas something real, but that noAV Ave can scarce find enough of it to serve as a sample of what it might or should be. I, however, happen to know enough to awaken both my regret and disgust. The Quilt or Skirt.—This garment is generally quite weighty, and, commonly, two or three are Avorn at a time. Now-a-days they are not suspended by either the hips or shoulders ; not by the shoulders, because then there could not be enough of the beautiful neck exposed, without exhibiting the uncouth shoulder strap; but they are bound around the waist (above the bilge of the abdomen), so tight that the form of the body prevents their falling or drooping. This, we must see, is continually warring against nature, and perpetually antagonizing the force of the abdominal muscles, in their attempts to preserve a small ab- domen, and large waist and chest. We know that by degrees this will increase, and make an abdomen like Fig. 4. It also tends both to compress and depress the chest, especially at its largest and most flexible part. In this way there is a gradual separation between the organs of the chest and abdomen brought about, giving rise to an in- version of the diaphragm, and consequently to all those feel- ings and effects heretofore delineated. The Jacket.—Of these, I believe, there are several kinds, but there is one general tendency in the whole of them, viz., to compress the chest, and push down the abdominal organs, more especially those which are made long, so as to make a long waist, and large appearing hip. These, because the natural shape of the body makes them slip up, are armed with Avhale bones, so as to keep them down. Their lower ends press into the sides and abdomen, coinciding Avith the other things just mentioned. Thus the to be dreaded effects of gravitation in the organs are gradually brought on. The forms of nearly all females now demonstrate the fact. Besides, all the unfortunate effects of compression on the lungs are being cultivated and brought to maturity, and the poor de- luded creature is more than fortunate, if the fruits of the culture do not ripen in her bosom. The Board.—Next comes the harmless board, passing dov/n the centre of the chest, and reaching about below the bilge of the abdomen. Hoav does it operate, or do the desired good ? Why, let us see. If at all, it must be by supporting the abdo- men, and preventing its drooping. This it does in the follow- ing manner; viz., the inferior extremity of it resting on the most compressible part of the abdomen, is to act as a lever, to enable the other extremity of the board to allow the chest to lean upon it. This pressure, it Avill be seen, plies on the very COMMON SENSE. 199 place that Avants support from below. Nor is the comfortable feeling, at first, or absence of pain, a proof that the bitter harvest of these tendencies will not come, more especially in the form of those bearing down symptoms, spoken of in pro- lapsus uteri. Believe me, deluded girl! the full fruition of causes and effects, in their natural order, must be realized in time, sooner or later, and though it tarry, yet it will come like a whirlwind. Use your reason, not your feelings, as the guide in these matters. Look at natural tendencies, under the influence of common sense, aiid behold in the vista the sure result of mad and thoughtless fashion. The Dress Waist.—In the present day (if I mistake not), a great reform has been effected in the cut of the dress waist, that is, it is not bon ton to wear them very closely round the waist. But the panic to have a slim and long waist is such, that the aid of the splints in the jacket and bodies of the dress, all gendy acting on the compressible part, is called into requi- sition, of the downward tendency of Avhich we have all along treated. Meantime the poor female, because she can pass the hand between the dress and her body, is deceiving herself; and sure that no injury can result from such a course, for she does not lace tight. The truth is, my dear friends, that lacing does not consist in any given amount of girting or pinching, but anything is lacing that in the least infringes on the expansion of the lower chest and its free motion, or which presses on the upper abdo- men, disuniting the abdominal and pectoral organs, and crowd- ing the former into the pelvic or female organs, effecting any amount of terrible trouble. You, by this time, are prepared and compelled to see, that there is but one species of lacing for the human trunk that will do at all, viz., to lace upwards, as nature indicates, and not downwards. I, therefore, in view of all I have said, would again say,—let us take the foxes, the little foxes, which spoil the vines; for our vines have tender grapes. I have to regret that the subject of physical education has again been crowded out of this edition: it was unavoidable. In my opinion, let that be properly attended to in infancy, childhood, and adult age, and there would be little room or reason for books, or anything else, with reference to bodily health. Should time and health permit, perhaps a more perfect work may be brought before the public, being more particularly full on this point EXPLANATION OF THE PLATES. These plates are not meant to represent anatomical correctness in all things, but to show some general points, combinations and bearings, and to illustrate some principles. Hence several anatomical errors of the artist have not been corrected, as they do not inter- fere with the points of demonstration. FIGURE L 4 Figure 1 represents a straight, square figure, with high shoulders, and broad chest. B B The hands hanging by the side, and not in front of the body. * FIGURE II. Figure 2 represents exactly the reverse of Figure 1, having low shoulders, narrow chest, and general contraction of form. A A Curved spine, from the curved posture. B B The hands hanging in front of the body, and not at the sides j Bee Figure 1. FIGURE IIL Figure III. represents the human figure, giving a perfect ipecunen •f a perfect form. A A. High head and shoulders. C. Full, plump stomach. D. Hands hanging at the sides of the body FIGURE IV Figure IV. presents a perfect specimen of an imperfect for A A. Low shoulders, and flat, narrow chest. B. Sunken, flat stomach. C. Pendant, sunken abdomen. D. Hand dangling in front of the body. FIGURE V. liWre 5 represents an internal view of Figure 3, showing tne relative •nd comparative view of the organs in the healthy subject. A A High, broad shoulders. B B Arms hanging by the side. r Vn\\ rotund state of the stomach. Hefe Ae action and bearing is upward, preserving the form of Fig. 3. * FIGURE VI. Figure 6 gives an internal view of the organs in Figure 4, or the re- verse of Figures 3 and 5; that is, the general downward pressure. B B Low, narrow shoulders. A Enlarged abdomen at its base, as in Figure 4. G Descended stomach, spleen and liver, and retracted form at th« pit of the stomach. FIGURE VII. Figure VII. represents an internal view of Figure III. A. BB. C. D. G a L Perpendicular line touching the breast, but not the abdo- men, which is drawn back by the erect posture and th« active state of the abdominal muscles. Form of the Spine of an erect, person. Elevated Diaphragm, supporting the lungs and heart Hollow back of the erect and well-formed man. Urinary bladder at liberty, and uncompressed by the abdo- minal organs. Uterus or womb uncompressed. Rectum or lower bowtl uncompressed by the superior organs. Figure 8 is the reverse of Figures 3, 5 and 9, and the counterpart of Figures 4, 6 and 8. A Depressed Diaphragm. B Sunken stomach. E Straight back. C Pendent belly. F Depressed urinary bladder, from the falling of the abdominal organs. J Uterus depressed from the same ccuse. I Compressed rectum, or lower bowel. FIGURE IX. Figure 9 represents the natural form of the chest, and position of the diaphragm. , , O C Shows how much smaller the upper part of the chest proper is. B B The diaphragm very convex above, and concave below. FIGURE X. Figure 10 is a side view of Figure 3. A A Straight abdomen, and the rectus muscle. B Transversalis muscle. C Natural position of the ribs. D Shows how prominent the shoulders should be behind the small or hollow of the back. E Full or prominent breast bone. 07 J COMMON SENSE ON CHRONIC DISEASES:J 2t rational QLttatm ON THE MECHANICAL CAUSE AND CURE OT MANY chronic Affections of the visceral organs. OF BOTH THE MALE, AND FEMALE SYSTEMS. BY DR. E. P. BANNING. OFFICE FOR CONSULTATION, 437 BROADWAY OFFICE HOURS FROM 11 A.M. TO 1 P.M., AND FROM 4 TO 6 P.M. SIXTH EDITION. FIGURE L—THE LACE. W S.' g 2 g^" « 2^2-" B — < ' c ^ c s i I- S o . .— m ej «j £, c O "O Si"- O 0 £-3'B!i'n 8> O O .2 h us >.5 4) «■ »'.e g"5 : S-S S g g CT. "»~! S | „ „ - . >- »M B * <£ 5 -G * ts -O-^ &•■& g g £ o *JS a ► » • 2? S ► " \o cKoo &?';,£ Price of Patent Lace.—Common, " " " " Best . . . . Ml - . . . . %\4* To be obtained at 423 Broadway, from 11 A.M., to 1 P.M., and from 4 to 6 P.M., or of the Publishers, PAINE & BURGESS, 60 JOHN STREET, NEW,YORK. 5782 7 r-i n , , yf[n '• 11 i ry nw Yf ;** ** rw^/\^ •fffWW\ftf* Mm^& i00a vs*orvv>.' ,..«.'--=".^r::;-;-:--' 'SV;j sA^:aI?a>,«^»&^!^^^ J. ^A^'Vl A' /\?*sJfl«?A«" >a'^'«^ A-- n , . -A^gai^£§SS5^s55sg^A^^^^^^VW<^%^ '. * a A a/»® A '' ' ».*RAP'«a » -^ A JBflS&OOOf A Aa->a.'*'A>»-''".a,~.'?"a'- wwwni „^-;>%>: ^r ......• ■ ^ a^^;a^*^p —■ A>A^Arr>,AnAA^r\'V^ , *~ A ^.^,^--^ ^