in
the extreme. Cases that are a disgrace to humanity are constantly
coming under our notice, in which limbs are lost for life by the
treatment they receive in this respect. Skilful surgeons do it in the
most gentle manner; they even swathe the limbs in soft loose cotton
before they apply the bandages, so that a perfectly equal and
comforting pressure may be secured. Lay the limb to rest, well and
softly supported in a horizontal position. When the swelling falls,
gently tighten the bandage from time to time as required. Each time the
bandages are removed for this purpose, sponge the limb with warm
vinegar or weak ACETIC ACID (_see_). When the swelling subsides, the
ankle may be put again in the hot bath for half-an-hour, and then, if
any bones be broken, is the time for setting them right. The ankle will
probably turn black. If so, do not apply leeches, but allow the black
blood to be absorbed by natural process.

A twisted or bruised wrist or hand is to be treated in the same way.
The swelling may also be removed by gentle rubbing _upwards_ along the
limb, so as to help the blood in its course.

Armpit Swelling.--Often this comes as the result of a chill, or of
enfeeblement of the system from various causes. In the early stage,
such a swelling should not be treated so as to develop a sore.
Treatment with iodine is to be avoided.

The first thing, in this early stage, is to increase vital action in
the part, and also in the whole system (_see_ Abscess). Moist heat is
to be applied. Make a BRAN POULTICE (_see_), which should come right
round from over the spine, over the swelling, and over the whole
shoulder. Let this be kept hot for an hour at least. If it can be thus
applied twice a day without too much fatigue, do so. If the swelling
softens and becomes less under this treatment, a few cold cloths may be
applied to brace the part and aid its vitality. Do not, on any account,
make the patient shiver. If the swelling increases and becomes
discoloured, keep to the hot treatment until it bursts and discharges.
For treatment then, _see_ Abscess; Wounds.

During all this treatment the whole back should be gently rubbed daily
with warm olive oil for half an hour, if as much can be borne.

Assimilation.--Is the process whereby the digested food is carried into
the blood stream, and thus conveyed to the different parts of the body
where the hungry cells are in need of it.

[Illustration: Fig. 1.--A bit of the inne