FISTULA OF THE WITHERS. 



985 



from cutting or bruising of the bit. Tincture of myrrh and aloes, 

 equal parts, applied to the sore, will soon cause it to heal. 



FISTULA OF THE WITHERS. 



The principle of treating fistula of the withers and poll evil is 

 the same as for treating other 

 deep-seated ulcers explained; the 

 only difference is that they are 

 more complicated on account of 

 their location, and require, if 

 anything, more careful treat- 

 ment. 



Fistula of the withers is caused 

 by an injury to, or bruising the 

 top of, the first vertebra of the 

 neck, or the ligament covering it. 

 At first there is simply inflam- 

 mation, with some swelling, mak- 

 ing the part very tender and 

 sore ; if this is not arrested or dis- 

 persed, matter will form and 

 penetrate in different directions, 

 around and between the dorsal 

 vertebra, and under the shoulder blade, before it comes to the sur- 

 face. Consequently the fistula may extend to both sides, and if 

 neglected, may seriously involve the bones, in which case the cure 

 will be proportionately more difficult. 



At its early stage, when 

 there is simply inflammation 

 and soreness, cooling appli- 

 cations, such as pouring cold 

 water upon it, or directing a 

 small stream from a hose 

 against it, and repeating, is 

 good. The part can be kept 

 wet by the following lotion, 

 FIG. 847. Showing a bad case of fistula. and then ^ the inflammation 



does not abate, give a dose of physic and apply an iodine or 

 sweating blister: 



FIG. 846. Shoulder in healthy con- 

 dition. 



