Observations on the treatment of lateral curvature of the spine : pointing out the advantages to be gained by placing the body in a position to produce lateral flexion of the vertebral column, combined with the after application of firm mechanical support / by Edward F. Lonsdale.

  • Lonsdale, Edward F. (Edward Francis), -1857.
Date:
1852
Catalogue details

Licence: Public Domain Mark

Credit: Observations on the treatment of lateral curvature of the spine : pointing out the advantages to be gained by placing the body in a position to produce lateral flexion of the vertebral column, combined with the after application of firm mechanical support / by Edward F. Lonsdale. Source: Wellcome Collection.

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    of long continuance, and may then be a cause of curvature. Carrying children on one arm principally, and this is generally the left, is a very common cause of lateral curvature when practised for any length of time, as is the case with nursery-maids. Daily observation will illustrate this, if the position of the spine be remarked during this occupation. The shape of the dress shews it externally by the twist it takes to the right side, as well as by the right shoulder being so much fuller aud higher than the left. In private families, girls of ten or twelve years of age, or even older, are often seen nursing their younger brothers or sisters, if infants, and carrying them for long periods together daily, on the left arm principally. The practice is most inju- rious, and cannot be too much condemned, and, I am convinced, is often a cause of commencing the curvature. The manner in which it acts is easily understood. The weight of the child requires that the centre of gravity should be preserved, in order to carry it with ease: to do which, the spine is thrown over to the right side, and the greater part of the weight is borne on the left leg; the pelvis, at the same time, is placed obliquely, and the right hip rendered prominent; independently of which, there is the weight of the child pressing the arm