550 PUNCTURED FOOT, OR PRICK, 



flinch. If this fail to detect the evil, pinch the sole and 

 the wall round with the pincers ; which, if the mischief arise 

 from a prick, will readily point out the affected part by the 

 pain felt there ; and under this spot matter will have surely 

 formed. Proceed in such case immediately to pare away 

 the horny sole, if necessary, till the blood be upon the point 

 of starting ; when on inspection a dark-coloured fluid may 

 ooze from one of the nail holes, yet, if a longer period has 

 elapsed, a purulent one will appear. But should considerable 

 time have passed, and there be an appearance of extensive 

 suppuration, we must carefully examine the extent of the 

 injury, to ascertain how far the horny sole has become 

 separated from the fleshy one ; for to this extent must the 

 horn be removed ; ever keeping in mind, that, as the fleshy 

 sole will never form over the dead or detached sole, so, to 

 gain a new horny secretion, every portion of loose horn 

 must be removed. No greasy matter should be applied to 

 the fleshy sole, but a pledget of tow or lint moistened with 

 tar may be laid on. If the case has been a neglected one, 

 and there has been extensive separation of horn, with con- 

 siderable suppurative process, take away at once every por- 

 tion of the separated horn. There must here be an imme- 

 diate exposure of the entire underrun fleshy surface ; and a 

 mild stimulant application, such as tar, made to the sensitive 

 sole, to change the purulent into a horny secretion. If 

 on the next day the secretion of new horn, though very 

 thin, is yet moderately complete, continue to dress it as 

 before ; but if fungus appears to be forming, touch such 

 part with the butyr of antimony : and after the luxuriant 

 granulation have disappeared, change the dressing to the 

 solution of chloride of zinc, two grains to the ounce of 

 water. Apply such cover as will defend the part as well 

 from moisture as unequal pressure ; but general and healthy 

 pressure, in a moderate degree,* will be salutary : tack on a 

 shoe lightly over all, and fasten on the dressing with splints. 

 When matter has proceeded to evacuate itself by the coro- 

 net, treat as for a quittor. And in all these cases, when 

 the symptomatic fever rages high, give physic. Perfect 

 quiet is absolutely necessary in every instance of puncture ; 

 the slightest exercise irritates, and should be avoided. The 



