810 
DISEASES OF THE FOOT. 
Id “ dietetic ” laminitis a dose of physic may be given, both to diminish 
local inflammation and remove, as quickly as possible, any injurious 
material from the bowels, thus preventing its absorption. Others 
recommend the intravenous injection of barium chloride solution. In 
the rheumatic form the parts should be rubbed with spirituous solutions, 
and the body warmly clothed. 
Friis recently recommended pilocarpine in doses of 5 to 7 grains. 
Experiments with this drug have given varying results; some cases 
showed improvement, others were unaffected. It maybe tried, however, 
especially where the attack is obstinate, and the os pedis shows no signs 
of displacement; but after displacement, of course, neither this nor any 
other drug can effect a cure. Dollar has had excellent results from 
hypodermic injections of bromide of arecoline (arecoline is an alkaloid 
obtained from areca nut). To diminish severe pain, subcutaneous 
injections of morphine are useful. 
Regulation of diet is especially necessary, and when the attack has 
Fjg. 309.— Hoof after laminitis. Fig. 310.—The same shod. The dotted 
lines indicate the previous form. 
followed excessive feeding, the animals are put on short rations. For 
the time being, corn should be completely withdrawn ; in summer grass 
can be given; in winter, hay and bran-mashes. 
It is now well recognised that, from the outset of the attack, exercise 
is useful, particularly in rheumatic laminitis. Sometimes the lameness 
occurs whilst resting during a journey ; and if the animal be started 
again, and pushed until it perspires freely, being afterwards carefully 
guaided against chill, it may completely recover. Rut, apart from the 
sexeie pain insepaiable fiorn this method of treatment, it may end in 
aggravation of the condition. The experiments made in the British 
army do not altogether recommend the treatment, though, under some 
circumstances, for example during field manoeuvres, it may be useful. 
Ihe treatment of dropped sole pertains to the province of shoeing, and 
although the form of hoof may be improved, yet the animal’s usefulness 
is never completely restored. As soon as acute inflammatory symptoms 
have disappeared, it is best to apply shoes with thick heels, and to lengthen 
the heels of the hoof as much as possible. (For fuller information on this 
