At noon, and in the afternoon, the foot-bath was again applied, and the bandages were changed.
This simple treatment put an end to the attack in two days. If it had not done so, it ought to have been repeated.
XXXV.—Rheumatism, etc.
Gout, rheumatism, sciatica, lumbago, tic doloureux, and neuralgia, all being attended with inflammation, are so nearly allied, that the same treatment as for gout, with slight variation, might be applied to any or all of them.
Rheumatism.—On a slight attack of rheumatism, rub the part affected with wet hands three times a day, from a quarter of an hour to an hour each time; then apply a bandage, which change when dry, and wear it until the pain ceases.
Rub the body all over with a wet towel, then a dry one; wait five minutes, then repeat the same operation four times in succession: this will animate the circulation. Then apply a bandage as in the case of gout. This treatment should be applied several times a day. Rheumatic subjects ought never to be overclothed, wear flannel, or fail drinking water.
When the attack is more severe, three rubbing-sheets in succession, allowing an interim of from three to five minutes between each. The body must be dried after each rubbing-sheet; this increases the effect of the next rubbing-sheet. Rub the parts affected often with wet hands, and apply bandages. This treatment may be repeated three or four times a day. If there is a great want of circulation, the patient may lie in bed until warm, between the application of each rubbing-sheet.
Neuralgic Pains.—Whatever the nature of these pains may be (supposing the patient not too debilitated), perspiration will generally be found to relieve them. To effect this:—
When in bed in the morning, add a number of blankets, and on them a feather-bed: there remain until in a profuse perspiration; then cool the body, either by rubbing-sheets, a cold bath,—or get a washing-tub, stand up in it, and have some jugs of water poured over the head and shoulders. This very often settles the affair at once.