Ml AN ESSAY TEE PREVENTION AND £URE V OCAL, P ULMONAKY, DYSPEP- / # TIC, NEKVOUS, SPINAL, FEMALE, UTERINE AND CHILDBED WEAK- NESSES: AND ALSO, OF HERNIAS, PILES, AND PROLAPSUS-ANI, ETC., ETC., BY MECHANICAL SUPPORTS, CONSISTING OF BRACES, PROPS, GIRDLES, SPRINGS, GALVANIC ATTACHMENTS, AND BANDAGES, Adapted to the above Maladies respectively". r.itsOf?/-* WITH TB&^OPINIONS'"' ©£ DISTINGUISH C il -"BY EDMUMt. p. "banning, md. ~TC xtical Diagram of tho ' u.tk, Mathematical uiagram oi tiro ' Mathematical diagram of forces of the drooped and tjie forces „f tife ._„_, ..•chilitotoJ bo,ly 21 MEROER STREET, NEW YORK. Ed Sforaed body Entbrkd according to Act of Congress, in the Year One Thousand Eight Hundred and Fifty-Two by EDMUND P. BANNING. M.D.. in the Clerk's Office of the District Court of the United States'for the Southern District of Now York. J THE HUMANITY OF TRUE SCIENCE. " Some years ago, Dr. Edmund P. Banning began to devote his at- tention to the invention of Body-Braces, trusses, girdles, spinal-props, and other artificial means of support. Like most other investigators, who are guided by the lights of science and practical experience, he was led from point to point, until he had explored the sources and symptoms of all that large class of diseases, which are manifested by enfeebled organs, and which can no longer perform their functions, owing to weakness, inflammation, or derangement. His office is worthy of a visit by the curious, if it were only to see the various stages of progress he nas made, from the first rude Brace he construct- ed, to remedy a simple local weakness, to those complicated and yet simple inventions, which he now adapts to any and all of those dread- ful afflictions which shorten life, and load it with suffering and trouble. *• He has received not only the most earnest and grateful attestations from the thousands he has relieved, but with unusual unanimity, Surgeons, Physicians, and men of science everywhere, have accorded »o his inventions the tribute of admiration. " Our attention was recently directed to this subject especially, by the complete success with which Dr. Banning had treated a friend very dear to us, and at whose solicitation, often repeated, we found the time, and cultivated the inclination to visit the Doctor's office. We know vot how it may be with our readers, but there are so many intolerable impositions upon the credulity of men, and so many unprincipled charlatans are making fortunes at the expense of entire communities, that we feel a species of reluctance even to talk about, much less to examine any of these pretended new and wonderful inventions, which are placarded on our 6treet-corners, and flame out in puffs from cheap newspapers. We had not the slightest conception before we had thoroughly examined the subject, that Dr. Banning had, from the be- ginning, proceeded in all the stages of his successful career, with so much simplicity, honesty, candor, and science. " We know of nothing more affecting than scenes that are sometimes witnessed in Dr. Banning's office. Gentle and noble women, who had for years suffered indescribably, without finding relief even in the highest medical skill; who in the very search for health, had endured bravely, sufferings that would have blanched the cheek of the hardiest man, have been completely restored by the application of Dr. Ban- ning's inventions. " Science, in the hands of a man of inventive genius and humane philosophy, is a sublime and great instrument; and no satisfaction can ever be experienced on the earth, that transcends that which such a man must feel, when he puts his hand with absolute confidence upon the exhausted, enfeebled, and drooping muscles, and restores them to life and vigor. The power thus to take an enfeebled body that is bowed down with weakness and a weight of suffering, and lift it up again erect, is one of the noblest powers ever given to man by his Creator.'1—Herald of the Union. 1 TESTIMONIALS. From Professor Mott, of New York, and others. The undersigned have examined Dr. Banning's novel views on the mechanical pathology of many affections of the viscera, and believe them to be highly in- teresting, and worthy the serious attention of the medical profession. VALENTINE MOTT, M.D., J. KEARNY RODGERS, M.D., ALEX. B. WHITING, M.D.. STEPHEN BROWN, M.D., H. McLEAN, M.D. From Professor Dickson, of Charleston, S. C. February 5, 1847. The principle which Dr. Banning has so ingeniously carried out, seems to me widely applicable to a large class of cases of suffering and debility in both sexes. SAM'L HENRY DICKSON, M.D. I fully concur in the above. JAMES JERVEY, M.D. From Professor Goddard, Philadelphia. Philadelphia, Feb. 18. 1846. I have exarjjned Dr. Banning's instrument for the relief of weakness requir- ing support, and have made practical experiment of the same, and am astonish- ed at the results, and recommend its use to the serious consideration of the medical profession. PAUL P. GODDARD, M.D. Pittsbuhg, May 28, 1846. We, the undersigned, having used in our practice " Banning's Patent Lace," for the relief of cases of simple prolapsus uteri, cheerfully testify to its being the best instrument we have met with to fulfill all the indications required in the case, which can be required from an external support. a. n. Mcdowell, m.d., t. f. dale, m.d., jos. p. gazzam, m.d. Savannah, June 11, 1847. Dr. Banning—Dear Sir : We, residents of the city of Savannah, have had frequent opportunity of witnessing the effects of your " Body Braces," and are convinced that they excel every mechanical instrument which has ever been in- vented to relieve the pelvis from the unusual pressure of the contents of the abdomen, consequent upon spinal and other organic affections, which so often baffle the skill of the most able physicians. We believe the principle to be a correct one, and, if judiciously applied, will do much good. Therefore we con- • gratulate the public on the success of your labors wherever you have had an opportunity of imparting instruction. We sincerely wish you success in your endeavors to do good, and tender our best wishes tor your prosperity, hoping you may enjoy a long life of usefulness. Your friends, H. K. BURROUGHS, M.D., (Mayor of the City.) C. P. RICHARDSON, M.D., J. S. MORRELL, M.D., J. C. HABERSHAM, M.D., A. CUNNINGHAM, M.D. MECHANICAL NATURE &ND TREATMENT OF CHRONIC DISEASE. It is my object in this essay, to show how it is, that medicine has failed to cure a very common and extensive class of chronic maladies; and how it may be, that mechanical support, when physiologically applied, may cure the same, by a removal of the mechanical cause. "• In order to which, the " common sense" reader's attention is first invited to the following fundamental and "common-sense" propositions and conclusions :— I. That man, materially considered, is a machine, of a primary, definite, and accurate character, and as such, is under the control of mechanical law—a change in its actions always resulting from any local or general departure from its primary and accurate definiteness, like as in other machines. II. The internal organs, or viscera, are as much under this law of definite position and mutual bearing as the bones; and a functional derangement will follow a displacement in one case as well as in the other. III. This definite position and relation of them, consists in a packed, braced, and upward supporting action from below, and not in a suspended or pendent state from above; and the erect posture and surrounding abdominal and dorsal mus- cles are the consummative agencies (w hen active and strong) in maintaining this supported and primary state of the vital parts, causing the lower abdomen to be comparatively small, the waist and stomach plump, and the chest short and broad, by virtue of the consecutive series of supports from the base to the apex of the whole pile—all resting upon the tense and flexible muscles be- low, which act in this case much like the elliptical springs of a coach, reacting upon any depressing influence above and within. This is the natural state. See fig. V. IV. Next, we see that if these supporting muscles, or springs, give way, and do not fully perform their duty, then there will ensue a letting down of this' upward, natural state, not only at the base, but even at the top of the pile, lengthening it, and producing a change from visceral support to visceral suspen- sion. See fig. VI. This is the unnatural state. The philosophic result of thia change is, a drooped, rounded form, with sunken organs, a retracted stomach, and pendulous abdomen. V. Now, bearing in mind that there is but one best—and that all machinery operates under its moving power long and well, only in proportion as it was first a wise and perfect machine, and continv ts so—let us see what will be the necessary and " common-sense" result of this change from support to suspen- sion. < DR. BANNING S LACK, OR BODY BRACE. 3 1st. We see that there is an undue weight put upon the arteries, vein9, nerves, and lymphatics of the lower extremities, tending to produce coldness of the feet, varicose veins, swelling of the feet, milk-leg, and numbness and weak- • ness of the extremities—and particularly so during and immediately after preg- nancy. 2d. We see that undue weight will be produced upon the lower bowel and its veins, mechanically producing costiveness and piles; that the bladder will be depressed, compelling it to be evacuated, or causing retention of urine, by compression of its stem, or a too sudden bending of it; that the womb will be pressed down too low in the passage, producing whites, and giving much pain in the back and groins by unduly stretching the cords inserted in those re- gions, and which support the womb; also producing the common sense of bear- ing down. 3d. We see that the bowels drag upon the stomach, liver, and spleen, and that they consequently drag upon the diaphragm, producing dull, heavy, drag- ging pains in the sides and stomach, with a sense of faintness, weakness, sink- ing or " goneness" about the stomach—causing the person to step carefully, and to lean forward—giving to many a bad reason to suppose the liver, stomach, and spleen are affected. It should be noticed that in this relaxed condition the bowels and other ab- dominal organs are, comparatively, in a dangling condition, which may tend to arouse their irritability, or to induce a torpor of them—commonly both, alter- nately—favoring constipation and general inaction at one time, and dysentery and diarrhoea at another. 4th. It is also plain that this relaxed condition of the abdominal muscles, and sunken state of the abdominal organs, greatly increase the liability to ruptures of the bowels and the difficulty of their cure. 5th. This unnatural state mny well be supposed to disturb the equanimity of the nervous function, and to account for the motley crew of symptoms under the head of hypochondria, melancholia, hysteria, gloom, causeless crying, etc, etc. 6th. We see that the diaphragm is drawn down, the perpendicular and di- viding membrane of the chest (the mediastinum) is put upon the stretch, the heart and lungs left unsupported, and the philosophy of respiration and of the pulmonary circulation necessarily broken up, producing palpitation of the heart, shortness of breath and congestion, with a tendency to bleeding at the lungs, accompanied with a sense of tightness in the center of the chest, and a tendency to droop the shoulders and flatten the chest. 7th. We see that this state also lets down the tone of the vocal organs, pro- ducing weakness and roughness of voice, and a consequent soreness of throat, from an unphilosophical effort to speak or sing. By these self-evident propositions we see—1st. That a drooping form and a relaxed state of the abdominal muscles and ligaments of the internal organs may produce such n deranged state of the viscera as to mechanically induce all of liie above and analogous maladies. 2d. We see that when wholly or partially so caused and perpetuated, they can only be removed by a restoration of the pri- mary mechanical position of the parrs, and that, too, by mechanical means, in conjunction with a proper reformatory course of life. 3d. It is evident that that support which most effectually elevates the abdominal organs will immediately commence to accomplish the desired relief. These indications, upon the above principles, an abundant experience has proved to be fulfilled by the Brace here- in described, and which has been so long before the profession and the public. Fig. 1 represents the healthy, erect, and well-proportioned subject just referred to, with chest and region of the stomach well supported and expanded, and the womb, bladder, rectum and yessels of the lets protected from undue visceral compression by the braced-up state of the bowels through the ener- getic abdominal and dorsal muscles. See page 1, paragraphs I, II, III. Fie. 2 represents the relaxed, drooping and badly-proportioned subject, just referred to, (the perfect contrast of the former.) with the lungs and stomach dragged, and the womb, bladder, rectum and circu- lating vessels of the legs unduly compressed by a falling of the bowels, caused by a relaxed state of the abdominal and dorsal muscles. See page 1, paragraphs IV and V ; also page 2. Also, consult the author's work, " Common Sense.". WEAK AND DROOPING SULJEOT. Fig. 3 represents the general appearance (rather extravagant for a general illustration) of the relaxed, languid and drooping subject, with displaced, dragged and compressed vital organs, requiring the Body-Brace to aid nature in lifting back the fallen organs to place, and in curing pulmonic, digestive, spinal, female and other weaknesses. e FKONT VIEW OF BODY-BRACE. BODY-BRACES. t Fig. 4 is a front view of the Body-Brace on Figure 3 (the relaxed subject, re- lieving weakness of the legs, womb, bladder, rectum, bowels, stomacb, heart, lungs and \ocal organs, by lifting the sunken bowels away from the parts below. BACK VIEW OF BODY-BRACE. 7 Fig. 5 is a back, view of the Body-Brace, supporting the loins, drawing back the shoulders-, expanding the chest, and relieving pain, aching and weakness of the back; and incipient curvature of the spine, and taking away the desire for eorsete, and compelling the bowels to support the heart and lungs. • SPRING SriNO SHOULDER BRACE. Fig. 6 is;a back view of the Body-Brace, with Spring Spino Shoulder Brace attachment, for the more effectual support of the back, squaring of the shoulders and expansion of the chest. It is more especially adapted to pulmonary and spinal weaknesses, and to those who are very tall and thin, and who are too weak or too indolent to help the simple Body-Brace do its office RUPTURES CURED BY BODY-BRACE TRUSS. Fiff 7 tenresents a Body-Brace converted into a rupture Truss by the addition of two rupture balls attached to the inside of the abdominal pad, at each end. It simultaneously performs all the offices of a spinal and abdominal supporter, and also of a rupture truss, by lifting the weight of the bowels from the breach, and of closing the breach by means of the abdominal pad and the small rupture balls at one and the fame time. 10 RUPTURES CURED BY THE TRUSS BRACE. Fig. 8 represents a Rupture Brace, composed of the back parts of the Body- Brace, and of springs in front, which avoid the bones, and are armed with truss balls, so as to support the back and radically cure one or more ruptures simulta- neously. With this trass the back and hips are never bruised as by ordinary trusses. SPINAL CURVATTJRK, AND CUR¥ATTTRE CURED BY SPINAL PROP. 11 SWNAL PROP. Fig. 9 represents a case of lateral spinal curvature, with an enlargement of the right shoulder and of the left hip. It is usually caused by muscular debility and bad habits of posture, and requires the weight of the upper trunk to be lifted off from the weak and yielding spine. Fig. 10 represents Figure 0, a case of spinalcurvature relieved, and the form Improved by the spinal prop, which supports the abdomen and the small of the back, and also, by means of crutches under the arms, relieves the bending spine of part of the body's weight, without any compression of the chest. 12 PELVIC GIRDLE. Fig. 11 illustrates the Brace or Pelvic Girdle, giving wonderful rest and sat port to corpulent and dropsical people, or Enscieote ladies, supporting the bad and carrying the burden. 18 WHO SHOULD WEAR THE BRACE? 1st. All public speakers and singers who have any irritability of throat, or an ungovernable and cracked voice, and whose vocal exertions are succeeded by languor and fatigue, with sense of flat- ness, faintness, or sinking at the stomach, and aching of the back. 2d. All who fiave dull pains and sense of oppression about the chest, with limited or hurried breathing on slight exercise, accom- panied by short cough on attempting a full inspiration, and par- ticularly where there is any predisposition to bleed at the lungs. Also, by confirmed pulmonics, as a very great temporary relief to the last. (See " Common Sense.") 3d. All who are troubled habitually with palpitation of the heart on slight exercise or excitement; and also, a general ner- vousness, such as hysterics, lowness of spirits, gloom, causeless crying, religious hallucinations, hypochondria, melancholia, and temptation to suicide. All such as the above usually approximate the unnatural shape, and complain, more or less, of its general results. 4th. All who have any degree of dyspepsia, and complain of dull dragging pains in the sides, imitating affections of the sto- mach, liver and spleen, accompanied by a sense of deathly sink- ing or "goneness" at the stomach, aggravated on exercising, and on taking the erect posture; together with a sense of shaking, heaviness and pulling or dragging on walking or riding. 5th. All who are habitually costive, have chronic diarrhea, or are in the latter stages of dysentery, and particularly all who are habitually afflicted with colic, and who have either bleeding or blind piles. 6th. All who are swag-bellied, have chronic peritonitis, and any varietv of rupture of the bowels, or a predisposition to the same. 7th. AH having affections of the prostate gland, or who have any difficulty in either retaining or evacuating urine, and particu- larly all of that unfortunate class of both sexes, who from various causes (whether they be personal folly or accident), are laboring under that seminal or genital weakness which, despite the best moral principles and all constitutional treatment, goes on to sap both body and mind of its strength, too often terminating in in- sanity or imbecility. 14 8th. All who have any variety of spinal affection, whether it be a double or single curvature, or spinal irritation, or only weakness, attended by dull pains between the shoulders, or continual wrang- ling or grinding pains in the small of the back and hips, with coldness, numbness, swelling, pains and varicose veins, with weak- ness of the lower extremities, particularly in chronic milk leg, and the hardening of flesh and ulcerations so consequent upon it. 9th. All pregnant ladies who are disposed to abortions, or suffer much in the last period of their journey, and particularly every lady immediately after delivery, and for weeks after (in such case should be applied over a wide linen bandage). 10th. All who have any of the above symptoms, in connection with any bearing down (falling of the womb), whites, painful, in- terrupted or profuse menstruation;-—and very strange rumors are , abroad concerning its use in cases of barrenness ! 11th. All weak, lax-fibered and rickety children, and youth who droop, lean and lounge,.and who do not endure exercise well; and particularly young girls whose physical powers rather flag- about the change to womanhood. If neglected then, they seldom fully recuperate afterward. 12th. Particularly those recovering from long confinement, by fevers, or any other cause, should use it—it will enable them to begin to move earlier and more among the convalescing influences; for sea sickness it is most grateful. And lastly. All who are from habit or occupation disposed to droop, and are of a sedentary and rather delicate frame, should always own one, to use casually in walking, riding, or traveling, thus averting the consummation of their downward tendency. All of the above maladies may be caused by the descent of the internal organs, producing pressure from above on the one hand, and dragging on the other [re-read explanation], all of which the Brace may rationally relieve by supporting the back and lifting the abdomen, thereby restoring a natural condition, and removing the physical power of discomfort. Reflect upon this before you say, " It cures too many things." Causes of the debility of ladies, so common at the pres- ent day.—1st. A neglect to support weak children. 2d. Neglect- ing to support fast-growing and lax-fibered girls, at the change from girlhood to womanhood. 3d. The present length of whale- bone dress waists, and the enormous number and weight of skirts at this day commonly worn, and pressing downward. DR. BANNING'S OFFICE, 21 MERCER STREET. Entered, according to Act of Congress, in the year 1863, by EDMUND P. BANNING, in the Clerk'i Office of the District 6ourt of the United States for the Southern District of New York. DR. BANKING'S BRACES. 15 But the common inquiry is—Will the use of the Brace compel me to wear H continually? I answer: 1st. The facts say no ! Invariably (the procuring and predispos- ing causes being removed) the patient gradually lays it. aside. 2d. Suppose it does; are you not the gainer .' Before you put it on, you had a long and growing habit of being uncomfortable, with a prospect of its increase and permanency, judging by others, nnd the effect of treatment on yourself. But you have exchanged it W a comfortable habit, and are made eligible to that exercise, etc., etc., which it calculated to remove the procuring and perpetuat- ing cause. 3d. The Brace does not, like other supports, act by compressing, confining, or restraining the muscles, but as a prompter or monitor to the erect posture, in which posture it has nothing to do. It also acts as a rester of the overtasked muscles, as a crutch or cane rests the weary man wilhout taking away his liberty to help himself. The reason why it so acts is, that its back pads, or fulcrum, are so much higher than the front, giving a drawing upward to the front pad, and that the front pad, being placed on au elliptical and a curved spring, travels up- ward much farther in its sphere of motion than any other. Its action is also concordant with the natural action of the strong muscles, where no support is needed. But for these things the Brace would, like otters, merely squeeze, confine, and press downward. (See cuts of Brace.) 4th. The objection on the score of a bad habit, only bears when unnecessary support is applied to strong and healthy muscles. But the Brace is only applied to weak ones, so that the objection, though scientific, is not practical. Particular Advantages of the Lace over other Supporters.—1st. It is cool. 2d. It is light. 3d. Its pads can all be shifted up or down, right or left, as often as the spleen or necessity of the case may require. 4th. Its great and universal flexibility. 5th. It lifts more than any other. 6th. Its back pads are four, and press on the weak hips, and particularly on the weak back, balancing and not restraining the body. 7th. Its pads being of naked horn, stim- ulate and harden the muscles, while soft and cushioned ones relax and weaken, through heat and perspiration, besides giving them a rancid smell. 8th. It is so constituted as to admit of attaching to it any proper spinal apparatus, and also the most perfect pile and hernial trusses. 9th. It may combine with its mechan- ical influence the virtues of the galvanic battery, locally or generally applied. RULE OF MEASUREMENT. Persons wishing to send for the Brace may draw a tape snugly around the body, one and a half inches below the tips of the hip bones, over the linen, and 8end the number of inches, cash accompanying the order, and the Brace will he sent to order, with an accompanying circular, and exchanged to suit, provided it be immediately returned in an unsoiled condition. Persons measuring as above, 20 inches, wear No. 1; 22 in., No. 2; 24 in., No. 3 : 26 in., No. 4; 28 in., No. 5 ; 30 in., No. 6; 32 in., No. 7; 34 in., No. 8; 36 in, No. 9; 38 in., No. 10; 40 in., No. 11; 42 in., No. 12; 44 in., No. 13; 46 in., No. 15; 48 in., No. 16; 50 in., No. 17. How to Apply the Lace or Brace.—Open the Brace freely, and bring it around you, causing both bows to sit snugly and at ease just above and nearly or quite in contact with the hips; then lock it more or less tight, as your good sense and sensations indicate. It should sit saddle-like, perfectly at ease, and motionless upon the person. EFFECT OF THE BODY-BRACE ON WEAK PUBLIC SPEAKERS. It is now an established fact, that most vocal derangements are wholly or partially caused or perpetuated by muscular debility, and a consequent drag- ging of the viscera upon the vocal organs; and also, that these maladies are wholly or partially cured by the lifting and bracing action of the Body-Brace. (See "Common Sense on Chronic Diseases.") 1 append three only out of numerous cases in point. 1(J DK. BANNIKO's BRACES. Extract of a letter from the Rev. David Caldwell, Rector of St. Pauts Church, Norfolk, Va. I am now truly rejoiced to hear you are coining South. I hope you will find the trip one of profit to yourself, for I am sure it will be one of benevolence to others. If you wish, I would write you out an accurate description of how great service your Brace has been to me, especially as a stay and support in speaking. If I could not procure another, I would not part with it for ten timet its weight in gold. I hope you will by all means visit Norfolk. I know many who need your Brace, and if they only knew its excellence, would furnish them- selves with it. I am determined to keep a second Brace always on hand, pro- vided against any accident to the first. I have been repeatedly urged to write to you for several of your Braces—and although wholly averse to engage in secular matters, yet I regard your " Body Brace " such a blessing to individuals, that if you will send me one dozen by Mr.----, or by the weekly packetsjbe- tween this port and New York, I will be responsible for them. DAVID CALDWELL. For the Daily Globe. Cincinnati, November 27, 1848. Mr. Editor : It is proper when we have received a benefit by any remedi- al agent to acknowledge it for the public good. Having tried Dr. Banning's Lace for the support of the abdominal and thoracic organs, I hesitate not to give it as my opinion that it is well adapted to the purpose for which it is designed, and I would earnestly recommend it to all persons who, like myself, find it difficult to keep the body erect. I would particularly call upon public speakers who are afflicted with any weakness in the chest to procure this instrument, and make the trial of its utility. And I take the liberty also to invite the attention of med- ical gentlemen to the examination of Dr. Banning's book, entitled " Common Sense," and to communicate to the public, in some way, their opinion of the correctness of its principles. I would myself review the work, if I were now in the practice of physiological and pathological investigations. I hope some one of our medical professors will favor us with the viewa of those who are compe- tent to judge of the subjects treated by Dr. Banning. Respectfully, WM. HENRY BRISBANE, M.D. From Rev. Caleb J. Tenney, D. D., of Northampton, Mass., late of Wethert- field, Conn. August 5, 1846 To Clergymen and other Pdblic Spkakkrs.—Thirteen years ago I sus- tained a loss of voice, which, for three years, was almost total. Subsequently my voice has continued weak and indistinct. One year ago I commenced the use of Dr. Banning's'Brace, and have found very marked and decided advan- tage from it, increasing the ease of speaking and the strength of my voice. Now, although I preach once or twice almost every Sabbath, I should scarcely attempt the service at all, if I had not in constant application the principles of Dr. Banning's Brace, which from my own knowledge of its certain utility in my case, I cheerfully recommend to all suffering a like calamity. CALEB J. TENNEY. DB. BANNING'8 BRACKS. 17 EFFECT OF THE BRACE IN LUNG AFFECTIONS.. Apart, from the observation and experience of the author, a careful perusal of the first two pages of this Essay must satisfy every common-sense reader, that a falling of the abdominal organs may have much to do in causing and perpetua- ting lung affections; and that the Body-Brace, by lifting the bowels, and thereby supporting the lungs, expanding the chest, and improving the breathing and pulmonary circulation, must always eminently relieve lung affections; and greatly enhance the curative effect of general treatment. It is the author's fixed conviction, that no person, young or old, who is cir- cumstantially or hereditarily predisposed to consumption, or that is drooped, with flat chest, and round shoulders, should lose anytime in applying the Brace. (See " Common Sense" on this subject.) - From Charles F. Pope, Esq. Washington, Dec. 11, 1846. Dear Sir : With great pleasure I bear testimony to the efficacy of your in- valuable Brace. I commenced using one in June last, at which time I was in very feeble health, in consequence of a severe hemorrhage of the lungs, with severe hemorrhoids from the slightest irregularity of the bowels, oftentimes continuing for a week, and leaving me very feeble, weakness in the back, and a most unpleasant sensation in the stomach, shortness of breath, and difficulty of retaining my food after eating. I was obliged to be very cautious, and not expose myself to the weather when it was the least unpleasant, the slightest change affecting me very seriously. The very day I first put it on I was greatly relieved from the sinking, unpleasant sensation in the stomach; I could walk or sit without experiencing the slightest pain in the back, and my chest felt as if it was relieved from a heavy weight. I could breathe freely with perfect ease ; in a short time my food ceased to oppress me ; the hemorrhoids were relieved ; and that which had caused me the greatest solicitude, viz., bleeding at the lungs, entirely ceased. I have not lost one drop of blood from the lungs since I com- menced wearing the Lace. I was also afflicted with a severe cough. So greatly have I improved, that my friends who have been absent from the city during the summer hardly recognized me on their return. I have gained in flesh, have a good appetite, and am able to eat food of any description that a well and hearty man can digest. Indeed, I feel almost like one risen from the dead. It was believed by all that my lungs were diseased, and that I must die of consumption. Such was the belief of my physicians ; and I most firmly believe that many who die of pulmonary affection, might be restored to comparative health by the use s>f your Lace. I now attend regularly to my business, not losing a day, no mat- ter how inclement the weather may be. I owe you a debt of gratitude that I feel will never be in my power to repay. That you may long live to enjoy the blessings of this life will be the constant prayer of your friend, • CHAS. F. POPE. Dr. Banning, of New York City. The above and the following parallel cases illustrate the value of the Brace, even in fatal cases of consumption, by prolonging life and mitigating the pangs of the last hours. Extract of a Letter from Rev. Dr. Hoyt. Athens, Ga., Feb. 2, 1848. Of your Brace I have a very high opinion. Said Miss W. (whom you visited a few days before she died of consumption), a few hours before she died, "O what a relief has that Brace afforded me in my distress !" She could not be prevailed upon to take it off while life lasted. She so often spoke of the relief afforded aer by your Brace, that 1 thought it but proper to make known to you the fact. I am, dear sir, most respectfully yours, N. HOYT. 18 DR. BANNING'S BRACES. EFFICACY OF THE BODY-BRACE IN PROLAPSUS-UTERI AND OTHER FEMALE WEAKNESSES. Perhaps, after perusing the first two pages of this Essay, and intelligently examining the contrast between Plates 1 and 2, nothing can be plainer than, that a falling of the bowels must produce falling of the womb (or bearing down), and also, that the Brace, by supporting the weak back, and liftiig the bowel load from the womb, will always give instant relief. I give but iwo or three out of many thousands of interesting cases. (See "Common Sense on Chronic Disease.") CASES OF FEMALE COMPLAINTS. Extract from a Letter of a Lady, to her Brother, a Physician. % Dear Brother: * * * After trying various other supporters to no avail, I was induced, by a friend, to try one of Dr. Banning's Body Braces; have worn it some time, and can testify that language is inadequate to express the relief I have received from it. That constant dull pain in the right side is wholly removed by its use; likewise the pressing, bearing down of the abdomen; the piles and constipation of the bowels are all relieved. You well know how difficult it has been for me for*years to walk any distance; but lince I have worn the Brace I have walked miles daily with slight inconve- nience. I could not believe any thing could have been devised that would so perfectly support the body. And now, my dear brother, I want you to re- commend this most useful instrument to all your patients afflicted as I have been. . M. K. EVERET, New York. Letter from Capt. Thomas T. T. Tabb. Dover Mills, Va., April 16, 1847. Gentlemen : It affords me much pleasure to say to you, that, the Brace you k'ndly sent me on trial some two months since, has been of incalculable benefit to Mrs. Tabb, having done for her more than the best medical aid could effect in the three previous years. For nearly four years Mrs. Tabb has suffered with prolapsus, and has been compelled to keep her bed for months at a time, and was unable to walk or ride. Since the use of Dr. Banning's Brace she has almost recovered, and exercises freely, walking faster than many in per- fect health, and occasionally rides in a buggy twenty miles without the slight- est inconvenience. It would be a difficult matter to induce her to part with it, believing as she does, that it is a wonderful invention, and most invaluable. Several persons who have observed this case have been induced to try the Brace themselves, and they likewise are doing well, and greatly pleased with it. I have an aversion to appearing in public prints', but believing, as I do, that the Brace, properly applied, will benefit all suffering, as in the case referred to, and being myself truly grateful for the benefits my wife has received, I do not feel at liberty to say you must not publish this, if in your judgment you ought. THOS. T. T. TABB. North Argyle, Washington Co., N. Y., Sept. 2, 1850. Dr. E. P. Banning—Dear Sir: Mrs. Doane was confined to her bed fer eleven years. She could not lie even in a horizontal position, but lay all this time with her head the lowest. She could not help herself at all, but had to be turned in bed by her attendants. She could not bear the jar of any one striking or jarring the bed. Her abdomen was nothing but per- fect laxity, without any animate action, and if she attempted to sit, the drag- ging sensation was so great that she would faint almost immediately. During the most of this time she was untiring in her applications to the best of the medical faculty, but to no good purpose. She has also tried several kinds of me- chanical supporters, designed to help in such cases, but all did not avail. She gave up, discouraged, thinking she must spend the rest of her days confined to DR. BANNING'S BRACES. ID her bed, but a friend of hers called on her about three years ago, and showed her your book, entitled " Banning's Common Sense on Chronic Diseases," containing a description of your Brace, which she thought was better than any thing of the kind she had ever seen, and she was induced to make one more trial. I immediately took measures to procure one for her, and the re- sult has been, to her great joy, that for the last two years she has been able to be up and about her house, superintending her business, and has rode about town to call upon her old friends. She is now quite comfortable, and attends to her business every day. She attributes all this improvement in her health to the good effects of your Brace. Without it she could not be up at all, but with it she is comfortable. Yours, respectfully, EDMUND B. DOANE. EFFICACY OF THE BRACE IN CASES OF LEUCORRHOZA, OR WHITES. As the whites are almost invariably accompanied by pain in the back, with sense of bearing down; and, as the sufferer generally approximates the form of Plates 2 and 3, indicating that the womb is crowded too low, and is irritating the passage, it must be evident, that whatever supports the back (where the suf- ferer so often puts her hand), and relieves prolapsus-uteri, by letting the womb rise to its proper place, must also relieve the whites. (See "Common Sense.") Case 1.—Mrs. W., of Pittsburg, Pa., aged 31, had been for years afflicted with leucorrhcea to a ruinous degree ; her strength and spirits were gone ; hei countenance became sunken and dejected. She was continually indisposed to move, and spent her time in weeping.. Leucorrhoeal discharge was continual and abundant; in short, she was but a wreck of what she had been, desiring to die, and refusing to be comforted. The Lace was applied in her case, and in less than one week, she informed me that she was relieved of the malady, and that the change in her body and mind was surprising; indeed, it was obvious to all who looked upon her. In the short space of one week she superintended the female department of a large public house. Case 2.—Miss F. J. (ui»married) was a case nearly similar to the above ; her whole surface had become blanched, cold, and leaden; her limbs weak, tremulous, and painful; her countenance dejected and despairing, and her form bent like figure IV. All her former life and sociability were gone, and a kind of gloom and despair overspread her, in her appearance, and in all her intercourse with the world. The leucorrhoeal efflux was extreme and continual, until'at length she was unable to bear the motion of a gentle carriage, and even to walk across the room, without a continual tendency to fainting. Palpitation of the heart and dizziness were among the very troublesome symptoms. This lady applied the Lace, and, within one week after its application, she informed me that not only were the effects of leucorrhcea, but all the symptoms just enu- merated relieved, and that the leucorrhoeal discharge itself was dried up; this has beeh permanent in this and the other cases. A few days since, I was accosted in Broadway, by a lady, who, when I last, saw her, was so bowed down and prostrated by leucorrhcea, which had resisted all treatment, as to be a mere wreck in point of spirits and strength; but had become so elastic in her movements, and so animated and cheerful in her appear- ance, as to quite surprise me. She informed me that she wore a Brace for some months, which had perfectly cured her, enabling her to walk several miles a day with impunity ; and also to entirely dispense with its use. She added, " I felt that I must inform you of the wonderful change, and express gratitude and earnest wish that all weak females might make trial of your invention." This case is a living answer to the charge of those who say, "Wear not the Brace, it will make you worse, and get you completely under the habit of its use." -■0 DR. BANNING'S BRACES. DERANGEMENTS OF THE URINARY ORGANS. If the reader will turn to Plates 2 and 3, he will see that the bowels, in such shapes, may fall upon, not only the womb, but also the urinary bladder, and upon the prostate gland, and produce either retention or incontinence of urine, and, also, an aggravation of every schirrous or inflammatory affection of these parts. In all such cases, the weight of the falling load should be held away by the Brace. See " Common Sense" for several interesting cases. EFFICACY OF THE BRACE IN CASES OF MILK-LEG. The open ulcer upon this lady's limb, and the attendant hardness, coldness, and blackness in the vicinity of the ulcer, was caused by abdominal weight upon the vessels nourishing the limb, thereby obstructing its circulation—aud the wonderful change was wrought simply by the Brace, in lifting the sunken organs off from these vessels, thus mechanically removing the impediment to free circulation of blood in the arteries and veins of the limb. CASE OF MILK LEG. Dr. Banning—Dear Sir : It is not my wish to appear before the public in the character of a certifier, which has become so very common and of every- day occurrence, that the community generally pay very little attention to such things; but it is due you to inform you what benefit I have derived from the use of your invaluable " Body Brace." For twenty-four years I have been afflicted with Milk Leg; at periods, of course, not so severely as at others, but for that length of time I have been suf- fering with this complaint. For the last two months (with the exception of seven or eight days) my suf- ferings have been very severe—so much so that I could scarcely bear my limbs under me ; nor could I, for days in succession, walk at all, without other assist- ance than my own exertions. Eight or ten days ago, as you are aware, my husband procured for me one of your Braces, which I have been using ever since, and I am happy to inform you, that from the second day after I put it on, my leg has assumed a very different appearance, and my health very materially changed for the better. You perceive I say the second day, for I must inform you that the first day I wore the Brace it made me deathly sick; so much so that I thought I would have to abandon it, and, indeed, had to take it off. (I believe you have since informed me that when this symptom occurs it is re- garded as favorable.) However, the next morning I put it on again, and since that time I have had no return of that sickening kind of feeling, but, on the con- trary, I have experienced such pleasant assistance and support, that I would not, for almost any consideration, part with my Brace.. Independent of the bodily support it is to me, I feel satisfied, from the change it has already made, that my limb, with the blessing of God, will get well, for 1 am now walking without limping, nor do I feel any pain whatever. It is not now necessary for me to say that the disease had settled w termin- ated between the knee and ankle, and had become a running ulcer, accompanied with hardening pain and inflammation, for you saw it, and know how bad it was ; but, to the astonishment of myself and family, the sore has entirely heal- ed up, and the limb has a much more healthy appearance than it has had for a number of years, and to the use of your Body Brace do I give all the credit. If I could render to you, or more particularly to any individual in the com- munity, any service by information of the benefit I have derived from the use (for so short a time as I have had it) of your invaluable invention, it would afford me much pleasure ; and for that purpose you may at any time use my name. Respectfully, your friend, MRS. D. W. MILLER, Liberty Si reel, Corner Evan's Alley. DR. BANNING'S BRACES. 21 VARICOSE VEINS OF THE LEGS. This distressing malady, which is very common to pregnant and otl er feeble Ladies, is evidently, like milk-leg, caused by a pressure of the boweis on the veins; and as evidently may be relieved, by the supporting and elevating in- fluence of the Brace ; and none who feel any symptoms of it should delay its use As these cases are generally so confused with other cases, I quote none at this time. See " Common Sense*' on this subject. EFFECT OF THE BRACE IN PROFUSE MENSTRUATION AND FLOODINGS. On this head, referring the reader to her own "common-sense," i simply extract a case or two from "Common-Sense," without comment: p. 174. Case I.—Mrs. P., of Pennsylvania, aged 45, mother of a large family, was for nine years afflicted almost to death with flooding, or rather a mixture of profuse menstruation and hemorrhage. Sometimes the attacks were very sudden, and threatened instantaneous death, and would last for three or four weeks. She seldom passed more than three weeks, and often not more than one, without its recurrence. In connection with the wasting away (which occupied the anxiety and attention of both the patient and the practitioner), there were all the morbid effects of general relaxation. Her nervous diffi- culties were extreme, and dyspeptic ones also. Constipation of the bowels was constant and very obstinate, defying all the ordinary means of relief. She could walk (sometimes) a half a mile per day, but generally was confined to the house, if not to the bed. Every thing in the form of local and gene- ral treatment was tried and tried again, but with nothing but a transient tem- porizing effect. ✓ ______ EFFICACY OF THE PELVIC GIRDLE IN PREGNANCY. Perhaps in no sphere does mechanical support act with so extensive and salutary power as in the §aried conditions incident to pregnancy and childbed. Case i,__Mrs. B. was on her journey with her second child, and in her seventh month. She had suffered exceedingly for months, with obstinate con- stipation and its effects, great weakness of the limbs and pain in the back, with strange sensations running up the spine, entering the head and " spran- eling" out (as she expressed it), making her feel as though she would fall down in a fit; her spirits were exceedingly depressed, and her stomach ex- hibited every variety and degree of irritation that such patients do. Her cramps were severe. Her hips, she said, would come apart; her veins were very varicose and painful, her limbs exceedingly painful and heavy, and, in- deed she walked by the aid of whatever was in her reach. I was compelled to bleed her often to save her life, apparently, when she seemed destitute of blood I had reason to fear that she would not survive the jourr.ey. At this juncture an inguinal hernia (or rupture of the lower belly) broke out, which compelled me to apply a large truss. 22 DR. BANNING S BRACKS. Soon after this application I saw her, and inquired into the hernia. " Why," said she, " that is gone, but that is the least of all; ever since I have ap- plied the truss, all my pain in the back, head, abdomen, hips, and limbs has ^one ; I feel as light as a bird." She flew around and seemed in ecstasy. Every thing was relieved, and the necessity for my former treatment was ob- viated. I never shall forget the reflections which this case brought over me, nor the light that burst in upon my mind, nor the resolutions of reformations and improvements in practice I then formed. EFFICACY OF THE CHILDBED GIRDLE IN CHILDBED. When we consider how suddenly woman's condition is changed on delivery —from a very compact condition of the internal parts, and a tense condition of the surrounding muscles, to a perfectly loose and rolling, hanging condition of the parts, and an exhausted and collapsed condition of the muscles—we can not wonder at the sensations of which she complains ; and also at the great amount of ill-shape and prolapsus uteri consequent upon childbearing. Experience has tested the necessity of support at that time, but the incon- venience and inefficiency of bandages has become but too obvious. (See '• Common Sense," p. 170.) The reader, now ere examining the exposition of our fundamental principles in the first pages of this pamphlet, will see the force of the subjoined cases extracted from " Common Sense," pp. 171 and 172. Case 1.—Mrs. B. was delivered of a large boy, and was exceedingly smart, so that she was in the kitchen on the third day. I will here premise that I had faithfully applied the bandage. The consequence was, that she was con- fined to her bed for seven days; any attempt at the inclined or erect posture being attended with a most distressing sensation of sinking or faintness in the region of the stomach; or, as she expressed it, such a " dragging, such a gone- ness, sinking, it seemed as if she could not breathe." She felt it. from the tjiroat down to the hips. She ate continually, and said it was all the comfort she had, "for it filled her up, and relieved the sinking and goneness." She complained of great and insufferable bearing down on the pubes, accompanied by the to be expected sense of weight and dragging^pr grinding in that region, and in the small of the back. Her limbs and hips were agonized much on sitting, or by motion ; the head partook largely of the swimming and dizziness usually attending such affec- tions, accompanied with confusion of ideas, and all this was constantly recur- ring on any attempt to turn or rise. Difficulty of respiration and palpitation were also distressing. Her abdomen was perfectly flabby and pendulous, and the stomach very much retracted. Plasters, bandages, and tonics of every va- riety, and in any quantity were administered with but a very transient effect. On the seventh day, in the evening, after a most* desponding fit of crying, she said she believed that a supporter would do her good ; accordingly an im- perfect one was applied. She arose to her feet on the bed, and adjusted it (a thing she could not have done previously without fainting). She exclaimed, "There, I am well now." She then stepped deliberately off from the bed with ease, walked'to the fire, and partook cheerfully of a repast. In three days she rode ten miles to visit her friends. EFFICACY OF THE BRACE IN CASES OF DYSPEPSIA, COSTIVENESS, DIARRHEA AND PILES. At this stage of the Essay, the reader will plainly see, on viewing Plates 2 and 3, that this falling of the bowels will take away the natural stimulus of support from the stomach and bowels, and induce a torpor of them, with a sense of " goneness' at the stomach, and also a pressure on the lower bowel, and the veins of that bowel, producing costiveness and piles, in a.mechanical way ; and, also, this deranged condition of the small bowels will irritate and excite them, especially during an epidemic of cholera, dysentery, and diarrhea, and tend greatly to the production of those maladies. dr. banning's BRACBS. 23 The effect of the Brace in curing these maladies, has surpassed all reasoning on the subject. (See " Common Sense.") New York, 38 Catherine Street. Dr. Banning: Such has been my relief from the use of your Brace, that I can not refrain from asking you to receive and promulgate my testimony to the world. For several years 1 have been the most miserable creature, both in soul and body, that ever lived, from indigestion, costiveness, weakness, and burning at my stomach, spitting up my food, or groaning under the retainure of it; great weakness at my sides, breast, and back; also a nervousness that perfectly unmanned me; my mind, also, was dark and distressed, and all was woe, horror, and despair. For years I did every thing that could be done—I say every thing—without avail. Since the application of your Lace, even the same day, I have been happy, mind clear and cheerful, strength improved, bowels regular—perfectly so, digestion good, and stomach strong, etc.; indeed, I am radically relieved. I beg all who live sedentarily, sit much, or stoop, and complain of any variety of dyspepsia, weakness of body, etc., to try Dr. Ban- ning's Brace in preference to any other, or to medicine. Respectfully, etc., M. R. EGLETON. New York, May 8. 1845. Dr. Banning : For six months previous to wearing your Brace, I was perfectly feeble and miserable in body and spirits. Indigestion, with all its attendants, such as heartburn, spitting up of my food, pain and sense of burning and "gone- ness" at my stomach, preyed upon me, until life was a burden, and I was not likely to be troubled with it long. My back and limbs were exceedingly weak, and gentle exercise was followed by great fatigue. Since the use of your Lace niy digestion is good, stomach relieved of its former troubles, my back and limbs are strong, my flesh, but above all, my spirits, have returned, and nature and society wear a new face to me. I feel that there are thousands similarly afflicted, whom medicine can not relieve, and who must live miserably, or die ultimately, except theyfuse your Lace. Hence my philanthropy triumphs over my feeling, in thus publicly giving my testimony for the benefit of the world. R. P. PRICE. COSTIVENESS, PILES, AND SICK HEADACHE. Warren, Pa. For twenty-five years I was sorely afflicted with obstinate costiveness, piles, terrible sick headache, and melancholy to such an extent, that about one third of my time I was unfit for corporeal or mental labor. I was soon perfectly relieved of them all, by the use of Dr. Banning's Lace. Two years have now elapsed, and no return of my former troubles. 1 have also seen hundreds of similar cases equally relieved by the same means. I believe it will be invaluable, at least to all who are similarly afflicted. J ______ ARCHIBALD TANNER. Col. S., of Poughkeepsie, had for twenty years been the subject of inveterate piles, which at length undermined his health, particularly deranging his diges- tive and nervous systems. In October last, he came to New York for treatment. and informed me that all treatment, both constitutional and local, had failed. and that by the recommendation of one who had been relieved of like suffering, he had come to make trial of my improved Brace and Pile Supporter. He expressed the most forlorn, hope of any relief, and offered hundreds for even temporary and partial relief. The requisite supports were applied, with some :mmediate relief; in about three weeks he sent his respects by his son, and says, " Tell Dr. Banning that my general health has greatly improved, that I have not 24 DR. BANNING'S BRACES. since the application of the Brace experienced a single twinge from my old com plaint, and that five hundred dollars could not purchase from me the privilege of wearing the Brace." RUPTURES OF THE BOWEL. Of these there are several varieties, all of which, if not skillfully attended to: are liable to prove suddenly fatal. Few maladies have met with poorer treatment than they. Most trusses have been bunglingly constructed, bruising the back and hips, and not having any lifting power. Another defect is, they never render any support to the back or abdomen, which such patients should always have. Many have said to me—" I want you to fix your Body-Brace to cure my rup- ture, and support my aching back and weak abdomen, all at the same time. You ought to do it." This I have done in two ways—one, by the whole Body-Brace, with little truw balls on the inside of front pad, and the other by using only the back parts of the Brace, with rupture pads in front, on springs. See plates 6 and 7. Also, see plate 5, how these trusses support the back. From the Tribune. Middletoum, Ct., Oct. 25, 1850. Mr. Greeley:—It is estimated that every seventh to every tenth person is the subject of hernia; and, as the consequent pain, danger, and loss of labor are so great, it would be a benevolence to publish the following : I am a fleshy, laborious man, and have for years been seriously afflicted with hernia, which has often endangered my life, and always rendered labor painful. I have suffered much from operations and trusses, and had given up, despairing uf relief, or of ever feeling like a man again. But recently I was sent for, to be the first test of Dr. Banning's " Brace Truss," which combines the properties of great support to the back, hips, and abdomen, and of a rupture truss, and, con- trary to any hope, I have not only been perfectly relieved, but derived great pleasure and support from the presence of this light, cool, and beautiful device. It pains me to think of the suffering thousands under the use of bunglin^ trusses. S*PHEN KINGSLAND OF HIP DISEASES. There is a large class of deformities and weaknesses of one or both hips which are the result of accident or disease, and which are very painful and dis- abling, and hitherto without hope of improvement. In these cases common Bense teaches that one great cause of their perpetuity and aggravation is the physical straining on the weakened hips. But it is surprising to see what strength and relief from pain have been conferred by either the Brace or Pelvic Girdle, which so firmly girds up the weak parts. Want of space forbids th c de- tail of numerous interesting cases. (See the late edition of Common Sense.) Case.—Miss Mary L., of Nashville, Tenn., was brought to me in the follow- ing condition: the right leg was so contracted that she was unable to put the toe to the floor, but used a crutch with notches cut at such height as would re- ceive the pressure of the foot. On the same week of the application of the Brace the limb elongated half an inch, and within two months was so much improved that the crutch was dispensed with. So unexpected was this great relief in point of suffering and symmetry, that both father and daughter seemed wild with delight and gratitude. OF THE SPINE. On looking at Plate 1, you see the spine so curved forward at the small of the back, as to he directly under the ears making this pjirt the body's pivot, ur center of gravity, upon which the body's weight is balanced. • The proof of DR. BANNING'6 BRACES. 25 this is, that the plumb line dropped from the crown of the head, falls through or near the spine at the " hollow," showing as much of the upper trunk's weight behind that point as before it, and drops at the ankle joint or a little before it, when we incline, a little over the ball of the foot, as in the military attitude. This shows that the erect posture depends upon pushing the center or pivot un- der the ears andnot on drawing back the shoulders over the pivot, as is commonly supposed. In proof of this, see Plate 2, which is fig. 1, more drooped (taking the "Gre- cian bend"). We see the shoulders apparently fallen forward, and the spine straightened; but, on looking at the plumb line down the center of the body, we find, while it is the same at the head and foot, as in fig. 1, it passes much far- ther forward of the shoulders and hollow of the back—showing that the fault in the change is, that the pivot has receded behind and from under the head and not the shoulders fallen in front of the pivot. The inference is, that the cause and rationale of a curved or drooping form lie at the hollow or base of the spine, and not at the top, i. e., the cause is at the base, and the demonstration at the other extremity of the spine. A proof of this is, if you push an erect person firmly at the hollow of the back, he can neither bow nor droop his shoulders at all. See fig. V. But draw away your thumb one inch, and he will bow, and the hollow of the back will retreat and touch your thumb. Another proof—push firmly with your thumb on the kidneys of a curved or drooping person (see fig. VI.) and he immediately erects himself, because (as in fig. V.) the base is pushed under the apex of the body. We see, hence, that no corsets or shoulder braces act naturally, for they re- strain motion, and operate on an effect, and not on a cause. We also see that when there is a posterior curvature at the base, by pushing for- ward at that point, we correct the deformity at the shoulders ; and, when there is a lateral curvature, with enlargement of the hip and depression of one shoul- der, if we press upon the curvature at the base, we urge it gently, but steadily to the center and under the body, thus elevating the whole body and opposite shoulder. Take any weak or curved person; take off all their supports, and cause a friend to press forward with the thumb and fingers each side of the spine, opposite the kidneys, and they will immediately straighten easily; then, let the friend lift the abdomen with-the other hand, and they at once breathe easily, and feel sur- prising and general support. This action at the lower abdomen and small of the back is natural and " con- cordant," and any other deludes the patient with a show of doing something, and that at the expense of liberty and comfort. In one word, we see that whatever presses forward upon the small of the back, and gently lifts the sunken abdomen, will re-balance the body, and take undue weight from the vessels of the lower extremities, and from the lower bowels, bladder, and womb, and its cords; that it will repack the loose and pendent abdominal organs, and cause them to be properly elevated to, and expand the waist; and, also, support and stimulate the organs of voice and respiration. I have only to add a single remark on this head, viz., that about all complain- ing of all or a part of the above symptoms approximate nearer to the condition and form indicated in fig. VI. than in that of fig. V., and that their feelings com- pare with the same. For an ample and argumentative illustration of the above principle, I refer the reader to my little work, entitled " Common Sense," to be had of me or my agents. ------ .* JO DR. BANNING'S BRACES. LETTERS FROM SPINAL PATIENTS. Letter from Commodore Jones Near Prospect HiU, Fa., Dec. 8,1846. Dr. E. P. Banning—Dear Sir : Ever since the year 1814, when I received a severe gun-shot wound by a musket ball, which still remains in the body, I have suffered much from what is commonly termed a weak back, and pain in the back, etc., etc., so much so, as at times to destroy all comfort, unless sup- ported by an arm-chair or the like—consequently riding on horseback, or re- maining long on the feet, was productive of much pain. I had tried various Kelts, Russian and others, all of which I found to be worse than the disease. Finally, I determined to make one more effort in search of relief, and, as you recollect, called at your office, Broadway, New York, in the early days of Oc- tober of the present year, and had one of your Braces adjusted to my body, on trial, for a few days. Suffice it to say, that at the end of three days I called and paid for the Brace, which I have worn ever since, except an interval of two days, after my return home, when I laid it aside with a view to ascertain how far the relief I experienced was real or imaginary. Since I have been wearing your Brace, I have been exposed to some severe and long exposure, without rest. On one occasion I left my breakfast table at half-past 8 o'clock, rode seven or eight miles, alighted, and remained on my feet, walking but little until dark, rode back to Washington just in time to meet an evening's engagement, whei;e I remained till 11 o'clock, without sitting down at all, except when riding, from half-past 8 A. M., till half-past HP. M., and this without the slightest inconvenience at the time or subsequently. Without the Body Brace I could not have endured half the fatigue without great incon- venience and pain at the time, and feeling the effects for several days after- ward. Previous to wearing the Body Brace, I was in the habitual use of the Fric- tion Brush, which I thought of great service to me, and for several years I sup- posed I could not live without it. Now I have laid it aside, having had no re- currence of the symptoms which induced its use since I wore the Brace, and 1 feel warranted in saying, that not only has my ability to endure fatigue been greatly renovated by Dr. Banning's Brace, but that my general health has also improved under its use. Wishing you a successful tour in your pilgrimage for relief of suffering humanity, I am yours, gratefully, THOMAS APC. JONES, U. S. NAVY. From Rev. Dr. Strong. Colchester, March 4, 1847. Dear Sir—In reply to your inquiry respecting the effect of Dr. Banning's Body Brace on my daughter, lean speak with confidence that it has been great and good. The Brace has been emphatically a Brace, not merely in giving tone to the part principally affected, but in giving strength to the whole spine, and to the muscles attached. I am prepared to recommend the Brace to all persons afflicted with spinal affections, believing that if they are not in every instance entirely cured, their suffering will be greatly diminished. LYMAN STRONG. Miss H., Ct., a young lady, had for four or five years been afflicJtd with spinal irritation, so much so that the gentle passage of the hand up atfoVIown the spine produced a general horror or shuddering, with a snapping of the eyes, and a strange feeling in the head. She had been unable to sit or walk erect, but dropped on one side. The head ached continually, and the mind was al- ways confused, and could not endure mental application. The stomach was re- DR. BANNING^ BRACES. 27 tracted, the lower abdomen tumid, and respiration short; the figure that of number 3. I had no faith that any thing could be done in her case, as it was extensive and severe, and had been treated by all the eminent men of the pro- fession in the vicinity. But the Lace was applied, and astonishing to tell, she exclaimed, before she arose from her recumbent posture, "I feel better." and on rising, she said, " My head has not felt so clear for a year." All uneasmesa was gone; she sat and stood erect with ease, and she was afterward able to apply herself to studies and various manual duties with pleasure. Fig XIII. is meant to represent a case of spinal curvature to the right of *« boilow of the back, with one spring or pad pressing against the curvature rttorfnaVe central and perpend.cular center of the body's gravitation, and of course! fn » dotg correspondingly increasing its height. If the curvature be to the left, the pad will be applied to the left. CURE OF SPINAL CURVATURE BY THE SPINAL PROP. TWo are some cases of deformity and drooping which from great debility „p the sides, so adjusted as tol»»te ^f8 w°Lht or compelling the sub° very organs which are able to complete the cure. 28 DR. BANNING'S BRACES. 1 also extend a support up the spine, and one across the shoulder.-!, to which I can attach supports and springs to correct deformity at any part of the spine or shoulders. These parts fit so neatly, and can be so changed in size and shape as to be worn quite comfortably. By this means the weakest person can be enabled to 6it, and made eligible to those exercises and other influences hich are best calculated to strengthen and improve the form. Letter from Dr. Samuel Ross, of New York. To Dr. E. P. Banning:—In consideration of the benefits derived by my son from the use of the Spinal Prop, in the case of a curved spine, and scrofulous enlargement of the abdomen, as well as from a sense of duty to anxious friends and the afflicted, and of gratitude to thee, for thy persevering exertions in bring- ing the invention to such perfection, I take pleasure, at thy request, in putting the facts in this shape, for the notice of the public. On examination of the views advanced in thy treatise, entitled •' Common Sense on Chronic Diseases," I was induced to test the treatment therein pro- posed, by bringing it to bear upon the case of my son, whose bodily health was then in a pitiful and almost hopeless condition. In a very short time after this an entire change took place in the looks and feelings of my boy ; and now, after thf; lapse of only five months, instead of great physical weakness, we see in him much of the vigor of life: his great abdominal enlargement has given place to an al- most natural state of the parts, and, from being greatly curved and bowed down in stature, he is now comparatively straight, having gravitated towards th»v erect posture sufficiently to have increased over two inches in height. I would add, for the benefit of the timid and almost discouraged invalid, that, so scientific and natural is the action of the Spinal Prop, that at no time has my son experienced from its use any increase of suffering, nor has he been subjected to an hour's confinement to his room. SAMUEL ROSS, Dentist. New York, 4th Month, 1851. Letter from Mrs. Edwin Curtis, of New York. To Dr. E. P. Banning :—Dear Sir:—I very much regret having so long de- layed expressing to you our grateful feelings in regard to our little son, who about eight months ago commenced wearing your Spinal Prop, and is now greatly improved in every respect. He is much stronger; has grown consider- ably in height; and the curve in the spine, which was so painful, even to look at, has materially diminished. At the time of our coming to you, we had but little hope of ever, seeing him well. He was then suffering great pain in the back, and walked only a short distance. Now, he seldom speaks of pain, and he walks as well as most boys in good health. He has this summer, while in the country, walked from three to four miles a day. I look upon him now in the comfortable hope that his life is to be prolonged, and that while he lives he may be free from painful deformity. I never expect to see him of a perfect shape; but that he may not be an object of curiosity to strangers, is a feeling which none but mothers can appreciate. I consider it a duty to express to you the gratitude I feel, after making a fair and successful use of your Body Brace and Spinal Prop. And it is my earnest desire that the knowledge of your mechanical devices, which are unquestionably a benefit to the human family, at least to the suffering part of it, may be widely extended. MRS. EDWIN CURTIS, 146 Thompson street. THE SPRING SPINO SHOULDER BRACE. Whilst the simple Body Brace usually is sufficient in cases of debility and languor, still there are cases of great debility from consumption and spinal weakness, or when from the force of habit or sheer indolence, the body will so droop, and the spine will so bend, as to push away the back pads of the Brace and render its action unsuccessful and uncomfortable. For cases of this kind I have constructed the Spring Spino Shoulder Brace (see Plate 6), whicli DR. BANNING'S BRACES. 29 when fastened to the shoulders, so effectually increases the pressure on the hol- low of the back, as to hold it forward and preserve the body very erect; the shoulders trim and the chest expanded, without restraint to the body. On the whole, considering that so many are too careless, indolent or weak to co-operate with the gentle promptings of the Body Brace, perhaps the Spring Brace is likely to become the most popular instrument of the two. Some months since I attempted to fit a dear young friend with the Body Brace, who was pulmonic and much emaciated. The Brace proved uncomforta- ble to him, slipped out of place, and would not "keep him up" as it does in ordinary cases. He refused to wear it. Recently I re-applied it with the Spring Shoulder attachment, to his great comfort. Recently he writes to his mother : c: What a comfort my Brace is ! it is per- fectly easy, and supports my abdomen, back, breast, and shoulders completely. Sometimes I go without it; but when I get it on again I hardly know myself, so great is the difference between John in the Brace and John out of the Brace." Miss E. N., a young lady of scroMous constitution, recently applied the Spring Shoulder Brace with the most pleasing results. She was but fifteen years of age, had grown rapidly, and from extreme scholastic labors, had con- tracted a very drooped appearance of the shoulders, flattened chest, and hollow- ness at the stomach, with every appearance of an advancing consumption. She experienced much heat and pain in the chest, with cough, labored respira- tion and palpitation of the heart, &c.; also an overpowering propensity to lean forward. In short, for a perfect illustration of her general appearance, consult Figure 3, of this Essay. But a few days have elapsed since this new Brace was applied, and yet it is surprising to see her now moving about, perfectly erect, plump, and symmetri- cal—with elasticity in her step, and with freedom from pain and cough. Her chest has also increased very much in size. In all ca^s where the lungs are implicated, I think this variety of Brace should be used; and also, on children, who will not voluntarily co-operate with the ordinary brace in cultivating a proper posture, REMARKS. Whilst the wholesaling of the body brace has been surrendered to the enter- prising house of Haydock, Clay & Evans, of this city, the inventor will con- tinue as usual, at his Institute, (21 Mercer-street, N. Y.) to professionally apply and fill orders,'per express, at retail, for single braces, without charge for accom- panying directions, and such professional advice as the description of case may indicate. The inventor's great experience in adapting his braces, and in selecting them to order, from a description of the patient, with a measurement as per directions herein given.'may encourage those living at a distance to send per express for most of his inventions. When necessary, he will exchange the instrument sent for another, provided it be immediately returned unsoile^ and freight free. p s.__All of his other inventions to be had at wholesale and retail, at 21 Mercer-street. 30 DR. BANNING S BRACES. But notwithstanding all this array of the happiest^acte, we are often met willi the old stereotyped objection, that " no matter if it does give great relief, still it is wrong, for it gives artificial strength." " It does what the system should do itself, and consequently it makes the muscles weaker." " There is danger of the patient's getting in a habit of wearing it, and can't leave it off." " It coo- fines the muscles, and tends to hinder their natural action," etc., etc. To these two last objections, I only stop here to say, that this is not the fact, as thousands of facts have demonstrated, and refer you to the " Common Sense," from page 182-191, and content myself with the following quotation on the score of the " habit of wearing it." " What would our patients say to us were we to address them in the following language, which is the spirit of the scientific objection. This is it: My friend, you are now laboring under great distress, and have been for years, in conse- quence of a loss of vitality and energy in some of your organs, producing general displacement of all the organs of your trunk. You have been thus ill for a long time, and I, among others, have tried my utmost to render efficient relief, by pessaries, tonics, anti-spasmodics, and all other remedies that promised relief, but I am compelled to say that my resources are exhausted. To be sure, I know of a very simple and comfortable remedy, that would afford instantaneous relief to you—relieve your spirits, relieve your pains, and enable you to exercise and go into the air and into society, and while you use it almost make you forget your troubles. But I must warn you against its use, for there is great danger of your getting into a habit of depending on it, and finally can't go without it. Now, considering that she has for years had nothing but a habit of enduring pain, and no prospect before her but to keep that habit, having been kept scien- tifically sick all this time, and all this in sight of comfort, only for the danger of the habit of being comfortable—what language would express her indignation at this savage, scientific inconsistency? Or if a patient convalescing from an intermitting or remitting fever, had got able to walk into the invigorating air by the aid of a cane, should be told—Not so; you must wait till the powers of the system are able to carry you, or you will relax your weak muscles by depend- ing on your cane, depriving them of the stimulus of exertion ; you will also get in a habit of using it, and lasting evil will be the consequence. Who would not be indignant at this ? or who would father such a position 1 Yet the oppos- ers of judicious abdominal support do actually lie under the same dilemma. But they say they do not, as the cases of the most protracted prolapsus are not thus ineligible to exercise, even without support. We say they are; and the perpetual sighs of millions continually say that they are; and common observa- tion says they often are; and anatomy says they may be; and the success of the Lace in relieving the oldest and most obstinate cases of prolapsus, proclaims the childishness and obstinacy of those who oppose this simple and mechanical means of relief; opposing it simply because facts run contrary to sainted anti- quity, high names, and the speculations of science. These things are very pretty, but they cost too manpr lives, too many groans, and too much suffering and pain to be any longer cherished. O that I had the power of tearing away the hypo thetical vail, and of showing, in captivating relief, the full ranks of facts, as they nave occurred in the world, in opposition to the usages of former writers." Entered, according to Act of Congress, in the year 1853, by EDMUND P. BANNING, iq the Clerk's Office of the District