On the application of electricity directly to the nerves and muscles by means of acupuncture / by John E. Morgan.

  • Morgan, John Edward, 1829-1892.
Date:
[1879]
Catalogue details

Licence: Public Domain Mark

Credit: On the application of electricity directly to the nerves and muscles by means of acupuncture / by John E. Morgan. Source: Wellcome Collection.

Provider: This material has been provided by The Royal College of Surgeons of England. The original may be consulted at The Royal College of Surgeons of England.

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    the beneficial effects likely to accrue from electricity are counteracted by the violent spasmodic movements excited so soon as either of the rheophores, or, indeed, any mechanical source of irritation, comes in contact with the integuments. Here I have found percutaneous electricity decidedly prejudicial. The reflex arcs [in the spinal cord are liable to be over-stimulated. In this manner inflammatory processes may be aggravated. On the other hand, if needles are inserted into the muscles (and here insulated needles prove peculiarly valuable), electricity can be passed into the deeper tissues without irritating the cutaneous nerves, and so setting up reflex irritation. I have found also that certain well-marked inhibitory effects accom- pany the passage of the galvanic current along the spinal cord. These effects themselves exercise a restraining influence on reflex action. They lead us to believe that in electric acupuncture we possess a remedy likely to prove valuable in certain forms of abnormal irritabi- lity of the spinal cord and medulla oblongata. I would especially insist that much of our success in the treatment of these cases will depend upon the strength of the current which we use. Much harm is done by over-stimulating the affected tissues. We may be beguiled into doing so by observing the satisfaction our patients experience as they watch the spasmodic contractions of their long-paralysed limbs. Too often this is a seductive manifestation of energy. It exhausts far more than it refreshes. The conservation of vital force rather than the stimulation of vital action should be our main object. Some persons may be disposed to look on this mode of treatment as formidable and even cruel; so far, however, as my experience goes, the generality of my patients do not look upon the procedure as in any way alarming. They watch with interest the insertion of the needles into their muscles and the transfixing of their limbs; welcoming the return of sensibility, even in the shape of pain, as a longed-for boon. In conclusion, I would remind my readers that the diseases in which electric acupuncture is likely to prove beneficial require, on the part of the medical attendant, a very large share of perseverance and hopefulness. He must never forget that those reparative changes which alone lead to the restoration of healthy structural and functional activity can onlv be the slow work of time. No heroic measures must be attempted. Nature may be assisted; she will not permit herself to be forced. He who approaches her in this spirit will be the most successful in his treatment, and will obtain the largest share of her favours.