Pathological and practical observations on spinal diseases : illustrated with cases and engravings. Also, An inquiry into the origin and cure of distorted limbs / by Edward Harrison.

  • Harrison, Edward.
Date:
1827
Catalogue details

Licence: Public Domain Mark

Credit: Pathological and practical observations on spinal diseases : illustrated with cases and engravings. Also, An inquiry into the origin and cure of distorted limbs / by Edward Harrison. Source: Wellcome Collection.

Provider: This material has been provided by UCL Library Services. The original may be consulted at UCL (University College London)

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    them are alike in every respect. These varieties in external appearance have led practitioners to imagine that a great difference obtains in their nature and essential qualities. Such conclusions do not follow of necessity. A striking difference of outer form is often produced by accidental and unimportant occurrences. Viewing matters in this light, I have ventured to maintain, that where the organisation remains sound the se- veral examples of spinal distortion are occasioned by the ligaments giving way irregularly, and suffering the vertebrae to slide from their proper stations in the column. Whatever occasions the ligaments to elongate, may, at the same time, permit them to stretch unequally. Where this happens, the joints will be likely to be protruded in that direction, because they will there encounter the least re- - sistance. It is to this simple principle alone, as I con- ceive, that the various constitutional distortions owe their form. If the protrusion be backward, a gibbous swelling or hump back will follow. The curve is anterior or forward when the spinal column sinks inwards. The sigmoidal, lateral, or