Massage Vibrators
In addition to these, there is’ the massaging vibrator, of which there are several on the market. These are all electric. They produce their effects by means of eccentric discs or cams that revolve irregularly about a central axis, to which may be attached a web belt or a knotted wooden applicator (for abdominal or spinal vibration), or one may grasp special parts for hand and upper-body vibration. When the belt is used, it is placed about some part of the body, its two ends being attached to the two cams on the machine. As the cams work in opposite directions (on most of the machines) the belt is drawn for short distances across the part to which it is applied, and a massage vibration is produced. The stroke of the cams or levers may be lengthened or shortened to produce a vigorous or a mild movement of the belt. Soft, flabby and fat tissues may be appreciably toned by this treatment, the action being in some measure a substitute for exercise. When there is high blood-pressure or a diseased or weak heart, this oscillating vibrator serves as a very good substitute for exercise, or it may be used part of the time in conjunction with moderate exer¬cises. The circulation of the blood is appreciably increased by this treatment. There are numerous other conditions in which this appliance may be used with good effect.