Mechanical Appliances as Aids
In connection with corrective exercises and general health-building measures, .special appliances are often used to keep the deformed part in the proper position until it is able to maintain that position of itself, or to provide an artificial pre¬ventive for the strain which the deformity may be putting on associated parts of the body. Braces are worn for bow-legs. In the case of clubfoot, the foot is taped or corrective shoes are worn. Arch-supports are sometimes prescribed for flat-foot. Various supports are used in the case of hernia. In connection with all artificial appliances of this sort, every ef¬fort must be made to build up the general vitality of the body and to provide such exercise and stimulation of the affected parts as will lead the body to do for itself what the braces or supports are accomplishing. If the stimulation cannot be given by exercise, massage or other mechanical manipulation is often employed.