RHEUMATISM.
Rheumatism thrives in cold, damp situations, and in wet, foggy weather. It is often confined to the membranes of the large joints, and sometimes consists in a deficiency of joint oil, (synovia.) It is liable to become chronic, and involve the fibro-muscular tissues. Acute rheumatism is known by the pain and swelling in certain parts. Chronic rheumatism is recognized by coldness, rigidity about the muscles, want of vital action, &c.
When lameness, after a careful examination, cannot be accounted for, and is found to go off after exercise, and return again, it is probably rheumatism.
Treatment of Acute Rheumatism.—Bathe the parts with an infusion of arnica flowers, made thus:—
| Arnica flowers, | 4 ounces. |
| Boiling water, | 3 quarts. |
When sufficiently cool, it is fit for use.
Give the following:—
| Sulphur, | 2 ounces. |
| Cream of tartar, | 3 ounces. |
| Powdered pleurisy root, | 1 ounce. |
| Powdered licorice, | 2 ounces. |
| Indian meal, | 1 pound |
Mix. Give a table-spoonful three times a day in the feed. A light diet and rest are indispensable.
Treatment of Chronic Rheumatism.—Put the animal on a generous diet, and give an occasional spoonful of golden seal or balmony in the food, and a drink of sassafras tea. The parts may be rubbed with stimulating liniment, for which, see Appendix.