Outlines of the study of Kellgrenism / by Frederick A. Floyer.

  • Floyer, Frederick A.
Date:
1888
Catalogue details

Licence: Public Domain Mark

Credit: Outlines of the study of Kellgrenism / by Frederick A. Floyer. Source: Wellcome Collection.

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    of a faradaic current to the tips of the lingers.* It may reasonably be inferred, therefore, that in some way electricity is excited and experiences the resistance of the morbid influence. If this friction and vibration is continued, especially if applied directly over the nerves or ganglia, the sensations of electrical resistance will be increased until the resistance is overcome, when the pricking or painful sensations disappear from the fingers, and the pain from the patient. It will be clear, therefore, that with an experienced worker we have a certain means of diagnosis of the presence and whereabouts of a morbid influence and an invaluable power for the relief of suffering. This sense of electrical resistance will not be felt on a healthly person. It is difficult to obtain it when the body clothed with silk, wool, or any non-conductor, but linen offers no obstacle. If this work is done upon a nerve which can be pressed against a bone, such as those in the scalp, it will be found that after a few frictions the nerve will be felt like a hard fibre or cord under the finger. This feeling, as of a string under the skin, will disappear when the electrical resistance is overcome. Whether what is felt is the nerve itself or the contraction of the accompanying artery I am unable to say, or, in fact, to offer any explanation at present. This sense of electrical resistance is excited either by a functional or a pathological morbid influence. For instance, a headache may be removed by this manipulation in a very few minutes, but the exciting cause may only be found if of pathological origin, by examining the various organs, and by * This sensation may be experienced by anyone who will take the trouble to practise. If once felt, it will neither be mistaken or forgotten, and unless the operator can accustom himself to this work, he cannot be said to be capable of practising Mr. Kellgren’s system in its entirety.