SECT. CV.—ON THE FOOT.
The astragalus cannot be fractured by any means, being guarded by bodies on all hands; by the tibia, the fibula, and the os cuboides. But the scaphoides, the bones of the tarsus, and those of the toes, and the cuboides itself, are fractured like those of the carpus, metacarpus, and the fingers of the hand, so that what was said of them is applicable here and need not be repeated.
Commentary. Hippocrates remarks that these bones can only be fractured by some sharp and heavy body. They are to be treated like fractures in general, only that they do not require splints. He recommends the recumbent position with the foot somewhat elevated, and states, in strong terms, the mischief brought on by unseasonable attempts at walking. (De Fracturis, 10.) Galen, in his Commentary, gives an accurate anatomical description of the bones of the foot.
Celsus is very brief on this case. He conducts the treatment on general principles. Albucasis directs us to make the patient put his foot on the ground, the surgeon is then to place one of his feet on it and stand on it. By this means the derangement of the bones will be rectified. He approves of a splint to the sole.
We find nothing worthy of notice in the works of the other authorities.