DISEASES OF THE FEET. 241 



feefc are able to bear shoes, they should be applied, as it is much easier to 

 dress the feet with shoes on. 



But the more aggravated cases will continue to present fungoid ele- 

 vations and morbid secretions, and will require repeated dressings with 

 powerful caustics. The dressing should be changed every day, as after 

 a few applications the same remedy seems to lose it effect. Chromic, sul- 

 phuric, and other acids may be used in turn. The following are also 

 recommended: 



Caustic chloride of mercury . . . . § ss. 



Hydrochloric acid trix. 



Alcohol , I iv. 



Or, 



Tar liv. 



Nitric acid .sufficient. 



Pour the acid on the tar and stir rapidly until well mixed and effervescence is 

 complete. 



Or, sulphuric acid may be substituted for the nitric acid. 



Care, however, must be taken not to continue the use of strong 

 caustics too long, or the whole sensitive sole will be destroyed and necro- 

 sis of the bones induced, followed by great sloughing, and perhaps the 

 death of the patient. After a time, therefore, instead of the above, 

 burnt alum, sulphate of copper, terchloride of iron, chloride of zinc, 

 sulphate of iron, logwood, and other astringents, may be tried. Carbo- 

 lic acid may also be used. Most cases improve under firm pressure, but 

 in others long-continued pressure seems to stimulate the diseased action 

 and the growth of fungus. It is scarcely possible to lay down a positive 

 rule. The symptoms of each case must be carefully watched and treat- 

 ment applied accordingly. In all cases, except for the first two days, 

 the dressing should be removed daily. 



The general health must be carefully attended to. A purgative: 



Aloes 3 vi. 



Ginger 3 ij- 



Linseed meal, 



Molasses. aa sufficient 



or a diuretic: 

 16 



