THE SKELETON 237 



Correction of Skeletal Deformities. It is, of course, easier 

 to prevent deformities of the skeleton by giving attention 

 to proper positions, than to correct them after they have 

 occurred. It should also be noted that severe deformities 

 cannot be corrected by the individual for himself, but these 

 must come under the treatment of specialists in this line 

 of medical work. In mild cases of spinal curvature, droop- 

 ing of the head, and round shoulders, the individual can 

 benefit his condition. By working to " substitute a correct 

 attitude for the faulty one," J he can by persistence bring 

 about marked improvements. It is better, however, to 

 have the advice and aid of a physical director, where this 

 is possible. It should also be borne in mind that the cor- 

 rection of skeletal deformities requires effort through a 

 long period of time, especially where the deformities are 

 pronounced; and one lacking the will power to persist will 

 not secure all the results which he seeks. 



" Setting Up" Exercises. The splendid carriage of students from 

 military schools shows what may be accomplished in securing erectness 

 of form where proper attention is given to this matter. The military 

 student gets his fine form partly through his exercises in handling arms, 

 but mainly through his so-called "setting up" drill. As a suggestion 

 to one desiring to improve the form of his body, a modification of the 

 usual setting up drill is here given : 



1. Standing erect, with the heels together, the feet at an angle of 45, 

 and hands at the sides, bring the arms to a horizontal position in front, 

 little fingers touching and nails down. From this position raise the 

 hands straight over the head, bringing the palms gradually together. 

 Then with a backward sweeping movement, return the hands again to 

 the sides. Repeat several times. 



2. With the feet as in the above exercise, bring the hands and the 

 arms to a level with the shoulders, palms down, elbows bent, middle 

 fingers of the two hands touching, and the extended thumbs touching 

 the chest. Keeping the palms down and the arms on a level with the 



l Lovett, Lateral Curvature of the Spine and Round Shoulders. 



