External Uterus Massage
In the internal-external method, one or two fingers are inserted into the rectum or the vagina to support the uterus while manipulation is done with the fingers of the other hand upon the abdomen. The manipulations must be gentle, yet with gradually increasing force and the uterus should be firmly supported. This is not a treatment to be given without a thorough knowledge of the technic and of the internal parts and their relations; but when properly done it is beneficial in some abnormal conditions, among the most important of which are adhesions and displacements.
Vibration may be given to the uterus or the prostate, espe¬cially the latter, by manual means, though it is difficult. A special applicator may be attached to the portable vibrator for direct vibration through the rectum. Such treatment properly administered is often a considerable benefit.
The application of massage need not be discussed here. In a great number of abnormal conditions massage, either gen¬eral or local, is of benefit, sometimes of great benefit—as, for instance, in infantile paralysis, insomnia, neurasthenia, writer’s cramp and similar affections, chorea, neuralgia and chronic neuritis, dyspepsia, constipation, lumbago, locomotor ataxia and sprains. In this and the following volume the various diseases are discussed and suitable treatment for them sug¬gested, massage being mentioned when it is known to be of benefit, and special instructions given when considered neces¬sary in connection with its administration.