University of Virginia Library

APOPLEXY

Experience shows that even old cases of paralysis are very often improved, and sometimes completely cured, by mechanotherapy. Its advantages consist in being able to work upon the entire nerve-system as soon as the least activity is apparent in the affected side.

The massage is used at first to stimulate the nerves and to increase nutrition. It will always be of some benefit, provided the system has power to react.

In treating a case of paralysis the operator should remember two special points:

1. Find out which muscles are affected and treat them and their nerve-supplies with massage.

2. Overcome the contraction of the antagonists by movements, or if necessary by braces.

Where there is active power in the affected side,

use, in connection with the massage, the following movements (for instance, for the right side):

• 1. S. rotation of arms.
• 2. Half L. rotation of legs.
• 3. S. rotation of right shoulder.
• 4. Flexion and extension of right leg.
• 5. Depression and elevation of right arm.
• 6. Pressing and shaking of right leg.
• 7. Pressing and shaking of right arm.
• 8. Percussion of back.

It is generally the best plan not to start the massage until three weeks after the stroke. The operator should always remember to select such manipulations and movements as will prevent a rush of blood to the cerebrum.

Paralysis from accident, gout or rheumatism, is very often treated by massage, the result depending upon the condition of the affected nerves. When caused by poison, mechanotherapy is recommended principally as a stimulating remedy, when the patient is convalescent. In paralysis from lead-poisoning massage is an excellent remedy.

The necessity of a knowledge of anatomy on the part of the operator is more apparent in treating cases of paralysis than any others. Careful attention should be paid to the facial muscles if required.

In a Swedish journal is recorded a case of an eighteen-year-old patient paralyzed in one leg from childhood. He was treated twice daily for three consecutive years by thorough massage and movements, and

at the age of twenty-one his leg was restored to its natural size and strength.

It is astonishing what the inunction of cod-liver oil in connection with the massage will do in some cases of paralysis.