Electro-Therapeutic Institute. CHARTERED UNDER THE LAWS OF THE STATE OF NEW YORK ELECTROPATHY, A CURATIVE IN Acute ™ Chronic Diseases. BY WILLIAM R. de KRAFT, M. D„ ELECTROPATHIO PHYSICIAN. A LADIES ATTENDANT FOR THE LADIES. 1Vo. 30 WEST 30 th STREET, Between Broadway and Fifth Avenue. NEW YORK. TWELFTH YEAR. NEW YORK : \Vjj Pusf.y & Rooney, Steam Printers, 1327 Broadway. 1884. INTRODUCTORY. The intelligent reader need scarcely be told that all discoveries or doctrines which tend to overthrow cherished opinions or prejudices, are sure to encounter bitter opposi- tion. After Galileo had attained the greatest distinction as a philosopher and a mathe- matician, and after honors and rewards had been bestowed upon him by princes and cardinals, and even by Pope Urban VIII. himself, he was arraigned before the Inquisi- tion, because he had dared to express the belief that the earth revolved. But, although the blind bigots who opposed him were able to force him to go upon his knees in sack- cloth, and publicly abjure the truths he had been teaching, they could not shake his faith in the' correctness of his theory, and as he arose from his knees he uttered the words which have since became familiar throughout the universe, E pur si muove—“It does move for all that.” A hundred years later Newton found himself involved in a bitter controversy with the old-school philosophers of his day concerning his doctrine of gravitation and his theory of the compound nature of light. He was denounced and ridiculed, but he lived to see his labors recognized and rewarded, and since his death the whole civilized world has acknowledged itself his debtor. And still later, when our own Morse conceived the idea of his telegraphic system, he spent ten weary years travelling through the United States, England and France, endeavoring to convince the “ doubting Thomases” of that period that electricity could be utilized for the purpose of conveying messages between distant points. He, too, was laughed at and ridiculed, and some of the distinguished gentlemen upon whom he called even expressed their surprise, because the friends of Mr. Morse had failed to see that he was safely lodged in an asylum for the insane. Nothwith- standmg all this, Morse’s system of telegraphy has since been adopted in two hemispheres. I have referred briefly to these cases for the purpose of reminding the reader that the bigots and skeptics are not all dead. They are as active and as virulent now as they were two hundred and fifty years ago, when they wrung from Galileo the renunciation of a doctrine that had been deduced from years of conscientious, patient study and observa- tion bortunately, the skeptics and bigots of this age cannot invoke the aid of the Inqui- sition The “ world moves,” and the truth relative to the virtues of ei.ecticity as a curative'agent are as certain to triumph no4’ as was the truth proclaimed by Galileo concerning the eanh’s revolutions. Ten years of constant practice in applying galvanic and electric treatment—without drugs or other medicine—to a wide range of diseases, enables me to form a correct opinion as to the value of these agencies in alleviating and curing diseases which had for years resisted all other forms of treatment. I beg. therefore, to commend the facts contained in the following pages to the careful perusal of impartial readers—both lay and profes- sional assuring them that in all cases where the names of patients are not given, I am authorized to refer to the patients themselves, who will cheerfully verify my state- ments. I beg also to refer to the following extract from a distinguished English authority which will show that while electricity is most valuable a • a curative agent, it cannot be used at random with impunity, and should only be applied by those who are thoroughly qualified to make a correct diagnosis of each case to be treated. In his lectures on the Clinical Uses of Electricity, delivered in the University College Hospital, London, Dr. J. Russel Reynolds, says: “Electricity is one of the most powerful agents you can employ in the treatment of disease ; but it is useful, useless 01 injurious, according to the manner in which it is applied ; and my endeavor has been to furnish you, by means ot these lectures, with the information which shall enable you to derive help from it in diagnosis, and confer real advantage on your patients, by rightly directing the therapeutic powers. But while this great boon to suffering hu nanity — like all of Nature’s choicest gifts — cannot be used recklessly, I can say to those who suffer and cannot find relief from pain, or whose constitution is being undermined by a waste of vital forces, or whose life is made wretched through some acute or chronic disease that medicine fails to reach to all such I simply say iry this crcatm-mt where it is intelligently and conscientiously applied, and am sure you will soon become one of its enthusiastic supporters. William R. de Kraft, M. D., No. 30 West 30th Street. New York, September, 1SS4. ELECTRICITY AS A CURATIVE AGENT. Although many eminent physicians in Europe and Ameiica have writ- ten and lectured on the powers of Electricity as a curative agent, the subject is very imperfectly understood. Among those who have been conspicuous for their advocacy of the use of Electricity as a therapeutic agent are Ham- mond, Rockwell, Beard, Morgan, Garrett and Bolles, in the United States; Althause and Reynolds, in England ; Du Bois, Raymond, Bequarelle, and Duchenne, in France ; and Remak, Meyer, Benedict and Helmholtz, in Germany. Dr. Hammond, whose opinion is of great value in medical science and therapeutics, says: “ It is the duty of every physician to study the action of Electricity, to become acquainted with its value in therapeutics, and to fol- low the improvements that are being made in its application in medicine, that he may be able to adapt the treatment to the individual case, and to test the remedy fairly without prejudice. Many of our physicians know almost nothing of the great agent, and the benefits to be gained.'’ Dr. A. McLane Hamilton says: “ I endorse Electricity as a very valu- able remedy, and as a therajieutic in nearly all forms of nervous diseases, it is invaluable.” Althause, in his recent work on Electricity and Galvanism, said: “I recommend Galvanism as one of the most efficacious remedial agents known. ’’ Professor Bolles said in his recent lectures: “The profession has long felt the need of some remedy better suited to cure diseased conditions, than was to be found in materia medica, and it was at length discovered in Elec- tricity and Galvanism. " Dr. Beard said : “Considering all the technical difficulties in the way of the rapid popularization of Electro-Therapeutics, its recent progress is something unparalleled in the history of science. The dark days of its his- tory are over, and they can never return.” Many other authorities on the same subject might be quoted, but the cases which came under my personal observation and treatment, and to which l shall refer in the following pages, will serve to show to all who are interested in the subject, how wide a range of diseases may be successfully treated by Electricity and Galvanism. DISEASES TREATED BY ELECTRO-THERAPEUTICS. The following is a list of the most common diseases which I have treated electropathically in my practice. Persons who are suffering from any disease which is not enumerated here, are invited to call upon me or communicate a description of their case by letter. My advice in all cases will be strictly honest, and will be based upon my knowledge and experi- ence. Personal consultations free of charge. i. Diseases of the Brain and Xervous System.—Congestion of the Brain, Paralysis, Hemiplegia, Paraplegia, many cases of Insanity, Neuralgia, Epileptic Fits, Hysteria, Nervousness. Palpitation of the Heart, Lockjaw, St. Vitus Dance, Sciatica, Premature Decline. 4 2. Diseases of the Eye and Ear.—Opthalmia, Iritis, Amaurosis, Cataract, Cross Eye, Impaired Vision, Deafness, Paralysis of the Ear, Noises in the Head, etc. 3. Diseases of the Respiratory System.—Swelled Tonsils, Throat Diseases, Catarrh, Aphonia or Loss of Voice, Cough, Consumption in its first stage, Influenza, Asthma, Bronchitis, Pleurisy, Intercostal and Chest Rheuma- tism, etc. 4. Diseases of the Digestive System.—Dyspepsia, Colic, Constipation in all forms, Diarrhoea, Dysentery, Diseases of the Liver, Spleen and Pancreas, Fever and Ague, Cancerous Affections, Flatulence, Piles, Prolapsus Ani, etc. 5. Cutaneous Skin or Blood Diseases.—Eruptions generally, Scrofulous Sores, Sore Head, Tetter, Leprosy, Boils, Carbuncles, Ulcers, Salt Rheum, Pustular Affections making their appearance on the face. 6. Diseases of the Fibrous and Muscular System.—Acute and Chronic Rheu- matism, Dyspeptic and Rheumatic Gout, Stiff Neck, Lumbago, White Swelling, Synovitis, Hip Disease, Curvature of Spine, Cancers, Tumors, Polypus, Contracted and Rigid Muscles, etc. 7. Diseases of the Urinary and Genital System.—Dropsy, Gravel, Diabetes, Inflammation of Bladder, Suppression of Urine, Scalding Urination, and all Kidney Complaints, Seminal Weakness and Impotence from whatever cause. In my practice I use galvanism to a very great extent, and especially the baths. I apply it whenever it is advisable. Aside from their curative power and medical virtue, the baths are very agreeable and invigorating. I have improved its application, and made quite a number of cures by and through this very powerful agent. I use it very extensively in cases which have been given up as incurable. In Sciatica Rheumatism it has no equal in conquering the disease. In Inflammatory Rheumatism it is the only agent to cure it; sometimes only a few applications are necessary. In Asthmatic affection it restores the respiratory organ to its natural functions, sometimes very speedily. And in Bronchial difficulties and severe coughing it is healing and soothing. Their healing, cleans- ing and purifying power in blood diseases and blood poisoning is without parallel. They possess all the virtue of the Hot Springs of Arkansas, and their healing properties are more sure and more permanent in the treatment of infectious blood poisoning. GALVANIC APPLICATIONS—GALVANIC BATHS. In the treatment of Infectious Blood Poisoning by the Galvanic applica- tion, a gentleman writes to me as follows: “I believe it to be more effective than the Hot Springs of Arkansas, and much less expensive. I wish I could say to every person, who has this deadly poison in his body, go and have it eradicated. Its ravages will surely commence when health declines or old age comes on. No medicines taken into the stomach can help it.” In Fever and Ague, I have used it to the greatest advantage. I have had ladies and gentlemen who had been troubled with the disease many months, who had taken Quinine and other medical remedies, without any beneficial results. These patients were often restored in two or three applications, and the disease never returned again. All that is necessary to cure this disease is to restore equal circulation, and establish again the Electrical balance of power. Galvanic applications in this disease is a sure remedy. BLOOD POISONING. 5 FEMALE COMPLAINTS. The degeneracy of our female population is already exciting the most anxious solicitude, and unless a radical change is soon instituted in the habits and customs of female life, health will bid a mournful farewell to our successors. Complaints common to females are alarmingly on the increase, and their sufferings are intolerable. The causes conspiring to bring about this state of things are numerous, and too frequently the result of folly and indiscretion on the part of the individual. No one complaint contributes so largely to female suffering as prolapsus uteri, or falling of the womb. It is, in fact, the canker-worm, sapping the very foundation of health and vitality. The womb—being the grand nucleus of womanhood, sympathizing with every other part of the body, communi- cating with the brain through the medium of the spine, and sympathetic— when diseased or displaced must necessarily produce terrible sufferings of body and mind only known to woman. 'This complaint being the result of weakness and relaxation, no permanent relief can be anticipated till the vital energies are restored and muscular contraction fully established ; then the womb, as a consequence, will return to its natural position. The ordinary treatment of this disease is most barbarous. No pessary, truss, or supporting arrangement ever has or ever can restore the lost ener- gies, or remove the cause of the difficulty. In no instance are the curative powers of electricity more strikingly illus- trated than in this complaint, which can be sj>eedily eradicated through the manipulations of the scientific physician. A lady of high social standing in the city, who had suffered for four years from prolapsus uteri, placed herself under my charge some time ago, and, in about four weeks thereafter, she felt almost entirely relieved from her trouble. In the exuberance of her delight she exclaimed: “How was it that I did not hear of your treatment long before this ? 1 have suffered so much, and the best doctors I could find have failed to give me any relief. I seemed to be without resource and was almost in despair, but now I ieel that I am myself again.” THE GALVANIC CURRENT. Galvanism, named after Galvani, is a continuous current, and is gen- erated by the apparatus known as the Galvanic Battery. There are a number of batteries, each one differently constructed and differently managed. Every medical practitioner has his favorite. But the question has often been raised, Whose make or manufacture is the most useful and produces the best effect? I can only say that, in my judgment, the Bunsen Battery has given the greatest satisfaction, ever since Professor Bunsen, of the University of Mar- burg, in Germany, gave effect to its construction. Scientists, as a rule, prefer this battery, although it is expensive in its construction and in its operations. It has the most powerful effect on diseased conditions, and I never knew of any case of blood poisoning, chronic or acute, which it did not eradicate. It is operated by two acids and alkalies, whereas the most commonly used battery has but one acid, and consequently has not, and cannot have, the healing properties that are contained in the regular Bunsen Battery. ELECTRO MAGNETIC, or FARADIC CURRENT. Known under this name, and known as the Induced Current, as produced by the Electro-Faradic Machine. 1 invariably recommend Dr. Jerome 6 Kidder’s machines and inventions, as these are very reliable anci trustworthy of action. This being so, they are deservedly popular, both with the medi- cal profession and in domestic practice. The medicinal effect is quite different from Galvanism, and this current is used only to a limited degree even by a physician having a large practice in Electro-Therapeutics. The activity of Faradic Electrolization on living tissues is by far less than that of Galvanism, and, of course, being simple in its operation can be easier and better understood. However the effect is quite potent, and brings into action particles of matter for the formation of nerves, muscles, &c., and excites into a healthy action, and re-establishes impaired or lost functions—as is very often the case in lost nerve power, in debility, in relax- ation and lost vital action, &c. NERVOUS AFFECTIONS. There are none in the long catalogue of diseases recognized as affec- tions of the nervous system, but what are largely on the increase in this country ; becoming more frequent and terrible in their nature. The num- ber of persons who are exempt from their effects is small. How often do we hear people complaining of Neuralgia in its various forms, sick or nervous headache, Saint Vitus’ dance, and the long string of nervous diseases that we meet in every day practice. Day after day we meet with patients racked, twisted and deformed by these life-destroying ailments. But progress in the science of electricity, as a curative agent, is doing much to relieve suffering humanity of its greatest enemy. Still thousands of persons drag out a miserable existence for the want of a proper knowledge as to how they can best get relief, and to whom they can with confidence apply for proper treatment. Many of these nervous difficulties arise from over-exhaustion of the brain and the nervous system, dyspepsia and physical prostration, though sometimes from injuries of parts. In my practice, the treatment of nervous affections has received great attention, and it is truly remarkable, that by means of Electrical diagnosis, I am always able to detect the causes which derange and unbalance the nerv- ous system, and when correctly diagnosed, half the disease is conquered, and the disease, either in the form of neuralgic or nervous affections, is soon under control. The worst cases need suffer but a short time. The en- lightened and specific treatment by electricity, has robbed many of these diseases of their terror. This disease affects the mucous membrane in the form of an inflamma- tion, and attacks the mucous membrane in some portions of the air passage, characterized by sneezing, watery discharge from the nostrils, increased se- cretions from the lachrymal glands, slight headache ; heavy, dull feeling in the head, chilliness, fever, hoarseness and cough, sore throat, arrested secretions, furred tongue, thirst, loss of appetite, accelerated circulation, lassitude. Different names are applied to it as it affects particular parts, hence, Coryza, if it affects the Schneiderian membrane, causing violent sneezing; Catarrhal Cephalalgia (or Catarrhal Headache), when it affects the frontal sinus ; Bronchitis (or Inflammation of the Bronchial Tubes), when the stress falls on the Trachea or the Tubes. Catarrh, properly speaking, affects the mucous lining of the nose and throat, and is extremely prevalent, and con- sidered very difficult to remedy. Persons of a strumous (or scrofulous CATARRH. 7 diathesis), or any morbid peculiarity of constitution, are most liable to this form of disease ; hence we find the disease of a low chronic type, and requir- ing a specific treatment by some form of Electricity. In addition to the symptoms mentioned, the discharge from the nostrils may be acrid and saline, producing excoriation of the parts over which it passes, sometimes producing an eruption which is very annoying upon the lips, and in a few days the acute symptoms begin to subside, or the disease may pass into a chronic form, or Tonsillitis. Bronchitis may supervene. If catarrhal inflammation has been very violent in a scrofulous person, ulceration is the result. In its primary condition catarrh consists in a spe- cific irritation of the mucous surface of the nostrils, extending through the head. Fauces (Throat). Much has been said and written upon the cause, effect and cure of Catarrh. By many it is considered incurable, and those who are suffering from this malady for years, and have tried and exhausted all the so called catarrhal remedies, are almost ready to adopt the conclusion that it is incurable. But recent discoveries in the application of Electricity —to Faradization or Galvanism this disease yields readilv, as has been proven in hundreds of cases, and, in fact, is the only reliable agent yet known, that dries up the morbid secretions, and restores strength to the af- fected membranes. RHEUMATISM. Of all the harrowing diseases incident/to humanity, rheumatism may be considered the champion tormentor. Unlike most complaints, which give timely notice of their visitation, it steals upon its victim with the subtlety of a rubber, nut only rendering him helpless, but inflicting upon him the most insufferable agony. Rheumatism is so deceptive in its character, and assumes such a variety of pathological | liases that even the skilful physician has to proceed with the greatest caution. It is true that in some cases it yields to almost any kind of electric action, while in others its subjugation requires the highest skill of the experienced operator. Not only is it neces- sary to distinguish between its acute and chronic stages, but the age, health, habits, temperament, and predisposition of the patient must be considered. Nothing in the realm of therapeutics can at all compare with electricity as a safe, speedy, and permanent means of relief. Its action not only arrests the ravages of the disease in its incipiency, but, after it has become seated, it re- lieves the pain, removes the inflammation, reduces the swelling, and restores the muscles and joints to their natural suppleness. Moreover, when the rheumatic tendency is properly reduced by this treatment, the ordinary danger of recurrence is obviated, the system being restored to its normal condition. DYSPEPSIA. There is no disease in the entire catalogue of ailments that presents so great a variety of phases as dyspepsia. No two of its victims are affected alike. Such is the sympathy existing between the stomach and the brain, that all dyspeptics are more or less mentally deranged. A dyspeptic stomach not only causes despondency, loss of memory and dark forebodings, and sometimes the strangest hallucinations. But it must be remembered that there are indigestions of different kinds, or classes, of foods, which each require different kinds of treatment. Prin- cipally there are three kinds, viz.: First, starchy food. Second, albuminoid 8 food—lean meats, white of eggs; also similar qualities contained in certain vegetables. Third, indigestion of fats. If the two first are cured, and not the third, the cure will be incomplete. By treating each form of indigestion in its turn, scientifically and suc- cessfully, the patient is transformed from an invalid to a well person. This can be done, and each and every form of indigestion and pain of the stomach removed, except that worst of all diseases, cancer of the stomach, and even in this the horrible pain and vomiting controlled. t Discomfort, and a sense of weight after eating, often first calls attention to existing dyspepsia ; but the disease has generally existed long before. But how is it now generally treated? On some supposed idea of the cause. Jt may be that of the stomach being acid, and alkalies are freely administered. Now the physiology of digestion teaches us that the first part of digestion— that is, of starchy food—is only performed in the presence of an alkaline me- dium ; the second part, that of meats, etc., is digested only in an acid medi- um ; the third part, fats, are digested only in an alkaline medium. It is very evidently that to flood the stomach with alkaline remedies, while it may temporarily benefit one part of digestion must neutralize another part. These and other difficulties must be patiently and scientifically overcome to succeed. From want of tact and skill in these and other delicate points arise the too common failure in efforts to cure dyspepsia. At other times it is advised to administer acid remedies, on some gen- eral idea that certain acids are tonics, and, therefore, strengthen digestion. Here again, while perhaps of more or less benefit, and often without even this advantage, the two parts of digestion, always performed in an alkaline medium, are sadly interfered with, and often made worse than before. Thus it is a matter of judgment and experience. First : What is the matter? How is digestion at fault ? And of much care and discrimination, how to conduct the various stages in the progress of a cure of cases of indigestion in its multiform varieties. fiVIuch can be ascertained by investigation of the condition of the fluids of the mouth, and the contents of the stomach ; even by causing the food to be regurgitated (thrown up), at varied periods of time—one, two or more hours after eating—and examining them chemically and microscopically, to see in what ways and particulars digestion is at fault at different periods after food is eaten, when it is comparatively easy to correct the faults with certainty instead of only trying to benefit. Then, too, besides faults that exist in the stomach itself, when digestion is poor or bad, there are other functions of the system often out of order, and yet intimately connected with the digestion of food and necessary to be in good condition to act well, and equally, so to the enjoyment of good health. Some examples being: good action of the liver, of the pancreas, of the kidneys, as well as good, rich and pure qualities of the blood. ' Thus it is seen that a wide range of study, an intimate familiarity with the history and therapeutics of these functions, are requisite, as well as a complete knowledge of the physiology and pathology connected therewith, can alone secure success in treating cases of dyspepsia. BRONCHITIS. This painful and alarming affliction of the bronchial ramifications once seated, has heretofore resisted all known remedies, and worried its victim to a premature grave. From the action of the electro-negative its ravages are 9 arrested, and, after the applications of electricity, the difficulty is removed, and the affected parts restored to their natural healtlffulness. PARALYSIS. This disease may be considered as partial death, or the half-way house to the spirit-land. It may be partial or complete, local or general. It sometimes disables the entire one side of the body, at other times one or both of the lower limbs ; or it may seat itself upon a particular organ of the brain, the liver, the kidneys, or any other locality ; but wherever it is located there will be a partial or total loss of nervous power, and an inability to con- trol the part. For this complaint it is needless to say that electricity is the only means of relief. In the treatment of this disease great care must be observed, not only in the change of polarity, but equally so in the selection of an appara- tus, as a misapplication not unfrequently complicates the case, making the paralysis complete when only partial. In all cases where there is no material injury, and the trouble is not oflong standing, and the patient possesses the power of reaction, paralysis of either the motor or sensitive nerves can be speedily removed through proper electrical agencies. ASTHMA. Asthma is a paroxysmal affection of the respiratory organs, characterized by a great difficulty of breathing, tightness and oppression of the chest, and a sense of impending suffocation. In some cases the laborious breathing is accompanied with a wheezing sound and constriction of the throat, with cough and expectoration. The causes producing this state of the system are many, but I find the most prominent to be paralysis of the diaphragm. I have controlled the very worst forms of this disease, where the patient has been compelled to sleep in a sitting posture for weeks. Medical men well know that this disease sets at defiance their most potent remedies. Electricity on the contrary, when applied according to this discovery, removes the stricture, polarizes the respiratory nerves, and quiets nervous irritability ; and will permanently remove the most refractory case. CONSTIPATION This stubborn malady, only aggravated by drugs anil medicines, readily yields to the electric treatment. 1 frequently remove obstructions of years’ standing in a single application. The brain, face, limbs, or, in (act, any part of the body, is liable to be attacked by this painful affection, producing the most excruciating pain, admitting of no compromise by day or night. I have cured cases of years' standing, in a few applications, that had been bled, blistered, cupped, leeched, and subjected to the most powerful nervines, producing in some cases partial paralysis. , NEURALGIA. This difficulty, so common to youth, is caused by a want of proper harmony or balance in voluntary and involuntary brain and nervous system. An equalization of the electrical forces removes the difficulty, which is not unfrequently accomplished in a few applications. ST. VITUS’ DANCE. This disease is prevalent to an alarming extent; it is peculiar in its manifestations. Two kinds of diabetes show themselves in the human DIABETES. 10 system ; diabetes insipidis and diabetes mellitus. In both cases of the disease the system has lost its vitality ; the elasticity and buoyancy of body and spirit is gone, and the medical practitioner is at a stand-still, and in fact, not any kind of medicine has ever had any effect in curing the malady. In diabetes insipidis, the desire for food and for drink is not so much as in diabetes melliius. In the latter the thirst is intense, the digestive organs are deranged, the skin dry and harsh, great debility, with morbid and unnatural appetite, attended with swellings and coldness of feet, inflamma- tion and pain in the urinary organs. In both cases of diabetes my mode of treatment is all-sufficient in healing the diseased condition, restoring secretive powers, and to bring the whole system into a healthy state. PREMATURE DECLINE. Ninety per cent, of the male population of the United States are afflicted with nervous debility, or weakness and decline. The cause of it is to be found in improper training, bad habits, sedentary occupation, the use of stimulants, other excess in life. Notwithstanding the many valuable reme- dies that medical science has produced for the relief of this class of patients, none of the ordinary treatments ever ave affected much good. The recu- perative powers of Electricity as a restorative are truly astonishing ; more good has been done in this fearful disease by its use aud proper application, and more lives have been saved by it, so as to entitle it to be used and applied by every physician in the world. ATROPHY (OR MUSCLE WASTING), Is a progressive or morbid diminution of the whole body, or a part of it, due to a variety of cause-;. Atrophy [or Degeneration of the body), belongs to certain disease-;, as Marasmus (a wasting of flesh) ; special or partial atrophy is more common. For example, it is well known that for the maintenance of health, all parts of the human flxbric must have a certain amount of physical exercise, an indispensable healthy stimulus. If the brain is not exercised it becomes sluggish, and its faculties impaired ; tie up a limb, and it withers and wastes ; and to'overwork the same penalty is attached Use the brain excessively, to such a degree that the system is unable to repair it, and it will become degenerated. In both atrophy from overwork and atrophy from ulceration, the defect is a want of construction. Overworked tissue is altogether different from underworked tissue; in the latter no demand is made for constructing power, but in the former a demand is made but cannot be supplied ; an.l again, in the latter the nerve force, which should guide ind govern the trans- formation, is left unawakened, while in the former it has been used to excess, and becomes exhausted, and as no new supply of muscular fibre is laid in the whole degenerates into inelastic fibre, and finally into a pale, fatty tissue, of low vitality. The power of nerve force over the muscles is capable of being increased by education, so that it may continue to hold or brace it up more and more ; but the muscle can only be increased to certain propor- tions, and when the nerves have learned to exercise them up to their highest intensity, or full force, they are incapable of further improvement, if the exertion is continued beyond a normal standard. The nerve force expends itself excjting the continuous action or function of the muscles ; destruction is in excess of construction. The nerve force is capable of indefinite improvement, but the organ or 11 limb which the nerve supplies cannot be made stronger than it was originally, and when it is overstrained or overworked it degenerates. The most common examples of atrophy are where it occurs in one set of muscles, fiom special and partial use. Muscles affected with atrophy are unnaturally soft, withered, and jnle in appearance. Atrophy is often the result of paralysis, malarial affections, certain other poisons of lead, syphilis, mercury; it may also result from various circum- stances ; inactivity, inflammation, spasm, defective inervation. Atrophy, or muscular wasting, may he general or local ; when it is general, it mav be caused by some disease, as a fever ; when local, generally some nerve injury, nerve exhaustion, as pressure, bruise, strain, monotonous work. The progress of atrophy is slow, but decided—fibre bv fibre, bundle bv bundle, and then muscle by muscle ; and as this atrophy goes on, fatty degeneration is complete—electro-muscular contractility is gone. The treatment of this disease must be based upon the pathology ; the affected part should have perfect rest, and then improve the general health, use thorough hygiene, local rest, cold douche baths, friction with the aid of Electricity. In this disease there is nothing that will bring about a change like Electricity, applied in a practical manner. 'Fhe Electric Treatment of this disease is, to cause the muscles to con- tract as strongly and repeatedly as possible, to cause dilation of the capillaries at one moment, and the contraction of the blood vessels at another, and thus attract to and urge more blood through those tissues, to warm and nourish them, and by an action of Faradization, the usual process of animal chemistry be thus broken up, nature aided, the ever-ready laws of vatality arranged and maintained. STATICAL ELECTRICITY. It is conceded, by all who are in a position to form a correct opinion on the subject, that the Holtz machine is the most perfect that has yet been devised for treatment by electro-statics. This machine works well in all at- mospheric conditions. In my practice 1 use one of the largest of these machines that lias thus far been introduced into the United States, with steam for a motor. This gives me a continuous, even anil steady current, and its success in the treatment of dilferent diseases has been most marked and grat- ifying. Concerning Statical Electricity and its powers as a curative agent I desire to refer to the remarks before the Academy of Medicine of an able practitioner—Dr. W. J. Morton—who says : Electricity, as a curative agent In medicine, may fairly lie placed on a level with galvanism and fa rad I mu. In certain diseased condition* It Is suiiertor to cither. Uy Insulation and »|>arkB, paralyzed muscles atid nerves are stimulated Just as by Induced currents. M< imd—The main objections to static electricity arc ui»on the Inconvenience, the working uncertainties of the apparatus, and the dllllcultles of measuring and controlling I ho electricity administered. Theeeobjectlona fall to have weight with the use of a modern Improved Holtz machine, and a proper electrometer. Third—Insulation ana sparks, lioth or either, moro notably sparks, relieve cutaneous an- irst tiesla more quickly titan galvanism orfarndlsm. In hemiplegia with organic lesion, numb- ness and anesthesia Is at once relieved by tills treatment. FimrUk—Decided motor Improvement may l>o obtained In hemiplegia of long standing. Tho dragging of the toe, the tread fin the outer sole of the foot, the outer swing to the leg, the rigid- ity at the kuec, elbow uud shoulder, may all he to u very apparent degree, and often entirely, removed. /■■>/<*—In |>nraplegla and systemic diseases of the splnnl cord In general, there Is every reason to expect that by menus of long and strong sparks to the spine, that results not now at- tainable tuay he reached. A distinguished and careful observer, familiar with tho treatment by sparks, thinks that 12 " patients suffering from paraplegia who are now benefited by the constant current, were pre- viously cured by static electricity.” Sixth—In the sense that medicines are tonic, the positive electrical insulation is tonic. Seventh—Statical electricity by insulation and sparks is principally useful in conditions of paralysis, spasm, and neuralgia, and pre-eminently in subacute and chronic rheumatic affec- tions. whether tendinous, fascial, or muscular. Eighth—Static electricity cures diseases, as other forms of electricity do, by stimulations of nerves and muscles, organs, and nerves of special sense. It likewise cures, by aid of the spark, in virtue of a sharp, deep, mechanical agitation of the diseased tissue, acting in this instance like physical exercise and massage, by causing alteration of nutrition. But above and beyond these methods of curative action is the principle, as lately estab- lished by Brown-Sequard, of reflex action in remote parts by peripheral irritation of the ter- minal distribution of the sensory nerves. In electrification by insulation, electricity of high tension is actively accumulating on and beneath the skin, i. the nerve distribution, and as actively discharging; the effects of static electricity aro then in this instance produced from the periphery ; and, owing to the fact that the electrification is general and the tension high, no other form of electricity offers equal promise in the treatment of diseases or conditions that can be effected in a sedative or stimulating manner from the general peripheral nerve distribution. The recent experiments of Brown- Sequard lead us to believe that many diseases may bo thus acted upon. Ninth— The invention by the author of a method of obtaining an interrupted static induc- tion current from a Foltz electric machine adds to medical electricity a new and practical means of electrical treatment This current is more agreeable in its administration than ordi- nary induction currents. Both nerves and muscles are stimulated by it to a higher degree than is possible by means of any other induction current now in use, and a corresponding advance in the efficacy of electrical thereapeutics in these two directions may be confidently expected. The new current furthermore, greatly enlarges the scope of statical electrical machines in medicine by combining in a single machine all the advantages both of static and inductive electricity. APPENDIX. CURE OF DIPTHERIA. Dickels’ Riding Academy, j 441 Fifth Avenue, New York, March 12, 1877. j Dr. de Kraft : Dear Doctor —It is with very great pleasure that I am able to testify to your mode of treating disease, and the efficacy of your treatment without any medicine. On last New Year’s day I was taken suddenly ill with Diptheria ol the worst type, so much so that I could not take any food whatsoever My throat seemed to be literary stopped up. I could not talk, and could scarcely breathe. All my friends thought that I could not live 'and I thought so, too . They telegraphed to my sister in Connecticut to come on at once, if she wanted to see me alive. Under this condition I applied to you ; but I did so with the expectation of getting medicine. As you were not at your office, being called away, your assistant attended to me, and he seemed to know at once what to do ; and instead of giving me medicine, as I expected, I was treated with Galvanism and Elec- tricity. At any other time I should have objected to being so treated, but I had no choice ; I was in danger of being choked every minute, and there was no alternative. I submitted at once, and after the first trial 1 felt very much better ; and hi about six hours after I had an application of Galvanism, and was after that treatment entirely cured. Altogether I have been ten hours under your treatment. It was indeed wonderful. Every one of my friends was astonished—I myself most of all. I speak of your mode of treatment with enthusiasm, and I have not a doubt but that you can cure many hard cases otherwise incurable. There are many thousands of people who do not believe in Electric Treatment; in fact they are crying it down as of no account; and I was, perhaps, one of the number ; but now I am convinced that it is good, and a remedy against disease. I am willing to bear testimony, and you can refer to me at any time ; and I am convinced from my own case that you cah cure more sick people by your mode of treat- ment, and save more lives by it, than any other physician in the city ; and hope that this letter will encourage you to go on triumphantly to conquer the worst foe to human existence. I am, dear sir, yours, respectfully, Sworn to before me, this 14th ) Thomas De Boe. day of March, 1877. ) Wm, M. Thomas, Notary Public, N. Y. County. New York, Oct. 24, 1881, | 132 Liberty Street. j Dr. de Kraft, 30 W. 30th Street, City : Dear Sir :—When I came to you eighteen months ago I was lame and sick —now I am entirely well and can enjoy life again. As you know, I am an old man. Most men of my age are ailing and sick the greater part of their days—I was so, too, before I came to you. For several years sciatica 13 rheumatism had lieen in my system, and in consequence I was very much run down in bodily health ami strength. I employed several physicians, and when I came to you I had had eight different doctors, but they exhibited their skill to no purpose. I continued very lame while under their treatment. I was also advised to apply Electricity, and I did do it, but without beneficial results. Finally I heard of you just by chance, although I had given up the idea of employing any more doctors, yet you were spoken of as an authority in Electropathy, and as having made good cures in hard cases of long standing, I came to you to hear what you had to say, as 1 had not made up my mind entirely to be treated by you. Alter talking to you and giving you the history of my case, you explained matters to me in such a way as to my laine condition, and how it ought to lie treated, that I came to the point of having a diagnosis made by you. After that it was clear in my mind that you were the right physician to cure my disease. You have kept your wont and your promise to cure me ; although you laid severe restrictions ution me. and your advice regards eating and drinking J thought almost too severe ; yet I kept to the rules laid down by you, until you relaxed them as I improved, and by degrees under your guidance and skill I was enabled to conquer my trouble, and now I enjoy perfect health in my old age, and can conscientiously say that I owe this great blessing to you and to your great skill in Electropathy—as without it I was consid- ered imurablc. I wish you to publish this certificate in your pamphlet, so that others who are now down in health (old anti young) may see it and take courage ; that there is still help when other treatment by medicines has fail d, and that there is still hope when all hope of recovery seems to have vanished. I have sent several severe cases to you ; all of them you have conquered also ; all were extreme cases. I recommend you strongly to all afflicted with disease. Ever yours truly, John H. Gross. State of New York, ) City and County of New York, f ts' On this 24th day ol Octolier, one thousand eight hundred and eighty-one, liefore me personally came and appeared, John II. Gross, to me known, and known to me to be the individual described 111 and who executed the foregoing and acknowledged that he executed the same. Andrew E. McNickle, Notary l’ublic, (,23) N. Y. County. No. 93 Beaver Street, New York, / February 2o, 1883. f Dr. Wm. R. do Kraft, No. 30 West 3cth Street, New York City : Dear Sir :—In the Fall of 1881 I came under your treatment for a severe attack of Bronchitis, from which I had suffered for more than a year. During this period I had lieen under the treatment of three different physicians who stand high in their profession, but although they seemed to resort to every device within their knowledge for my relief, I derived no jierceptible Ixmefit from their treatment. During the entire period referred to my sufferings were intense, particularly at night, when I had violent coughing spells, which continued until they brought on vomiting, which had the effect of completely exhausting me and leaving me in a condition more dead than alive. When my case seemed hopeless 1 had the good fortune to hear of your treatment from a friend of mine who had lieen under your care for a severe attack of Rheumatism, and after receiving a numlier of your Galvanic applications I was entirely relieved from the terrible disease that had caused me so much misery. It is now more than nine months since I discontinued your treatment, but up to the present time I have not experienced any recurrence of the trouble. My general health is improved immensely, and I feel that I have been permanently cured. You are at liberty to refer to me at any time for a verifi- cation of this certificate. Very truly yours, George Michel. CATARRH. I)r. d£ Kraft : I b tR Sir I desire to add my testimony to the efficacy of Galvanism and Electricity as administered at your hands. I had been a great sufferer from Catarrh in the head for several years, and had tried many doctors and various remedies without receiving any benefit : on the contrary, I continued to grow worse, until finally I could no* sleep, hut was obliged to walk the streets at night to get temporary relief from the terrible suffering I endured. At last I applied to a doctor who told me plainly, after he had also failed with his medicine, that medicines would do me no good, and advised me as a last resort to call on you. 1 took his advice, and after the first few applications of your process I experienced relief, and continued to improve with each application until 1 was entirely 14 cured, taking in all about twenty-five applications. I am now in the best of health ; have never had a recurrence of that loathsome disease from which I have to thank you for having relieved me. It is now two years since I was cured. Very gratefully yours, William R. Zelt, 14 Bleecker Street State of New York, (_ City and County of New York. \ ss' On this twenty-third day of March, one thousand eight hundred and eighty-two personally came before me William R. Zelt, known to me, and to me known to be the individual who executed the foregoing letter, and he acknowledged that he executed the same. Theodore Feldstein, Notary Public, New York County. Dr. de Kraft, 30 W. 30th Street, City : Dear Sir :—It is now a year since I applied to you to find relief from malaria and debility. My uncle, I. W. Kulenkamp, Esq., who recommended me to come to you, had also been a great sufferer from the same cause, and you cured him. Consequently, I came to you with confidence, and I write this letter and certificate with the hope that it will inspire others who are sufferers from the same malady and cannot find relief in medicine, to come to you. My case was simply this : I was employed as book-keeper in a large importing house downtown, eighteen months ago ; my work was severe, I had to work long hours, the ventilation defective, bad plumbing generated sewer gas in the building, and as my nerves were weak I fell a prey to its poison. At first I used medicine, but it did not help me, and as I continued to be quite sick I lost my place as book-keeper, which event was perhaps my salvation. My uncle took me to his home, and the first thing he did was to bring me to you, although utterly helpless. However, you soon brought me out of this helpless condition, and after taking about fifty applications I was entirely cured, and continue so now—never had another attack of it. You did not give me any medicine whatsoever. I cheerfully give you my name and address for reference. Christian Eggers, New York, Oct. 24, 1881. No. 17 Hudson St. State of New York, ) City and County of New York, j ss' Christian Eggers being duly sworn deposes and says that the statements made by him in the letter above are true. Christian Eggers. Sworn to before me this 26th day of October, A. D. 1881. John C. R. Eckerson, Certificate filed N. Y. Co. Notary Public, Rockland Co. CURE OF MALARIA AND PROSTRATION. Dr. Wm. R. de Kraft. 30 W. 30th St., City : Dear Doctor :—1 think you ought to make use of my certificate, with my name and address, so dyspeptic people can apply to me to verify all you say in your pamphlet on the cure of dyspepsia. Four years ago I was sent to you by a doctor who had treated me, but could do nothing for me and gave me up as incurable. I had previous to that many physicians in France, Germany, England and America. For fifteen long years I was tormented with this fearful malady. Medicines, dieting— nothing done me any good, and, until I came to you, I had to suffer every day. You told me that I should follow your advice implicitly in everything, and above all things I should not take any medicine. After making the diagnosis you pronounced me curable (if I followed your advice), and herewith I make certification that you used only galvanism to perfect the cure in me. I took about eighty applications, and four years have testified that you made a permanent cure. While I was under your treatment, and when I had occasion sometimes to sit 111 your office, I had conversations with some of your patients, and was often astonished to hear how successful you had been in curing chronic diseases of all kinds and types, and that you could control them so completely. My wife, who subsequently placed herself under your treatment, found relief from her nervous trouble after her own physician had failed. Yours truly, No. 1206 Broadway, New York, Oct. 24, 1881. John B. Saalmann. State of New York, ( City and County of New York. (ss' John B. Saalmann being duly sworn deposes and says that the contents of the above letter are true. John B. Saalmann. Sworn to before me this 24th day of October, A. D. 1881. John C. R. Eckerson, Certificate filed N. Y. County. Notary Public, Rockland Co. CURE OF NERVOUS DYSPEPSIA. 15 INFLAM MA IT)RY R11 EUIATISM. Philadelphia, July 18, 187c. Dr. di Kraft : Dear sir: Your thorough application of galvanism on alxiut twelve occasions entirely restored inc to my usual health and strength. As you know, I was afflicted with inflammatory Rheumatism of alxiut two months standing. [ could not move alxiut, and could not do anything. The pain I suffered was intense. Before I came to you I tried both the old and new school physicians, hut they could not do anything to free me from pain, nor the inflamed condition I was in. The last physician I had advised me to come to you, and you have done wonders with my rheumatism. It is now about six weeks since I hi st came to you, and I continue quite well. Any one who is similarly afflicted as I have l»cen, let them call on Dr. d»- K... who will help them .if there is any cure possible), and if there is any one who wishes to address me, I will answer them, to indorse Dr. de Kraft’s treatment. Philadedphia, April, 1876. It is almost a year now since I first applied to you, and l continue quite well, and cheerfully give you this certificate. Margarktta Eichel, 1624 Hutchinson Street. Sworn and subscribed to before 111c this 18th day of April, A. D, 1876. Benton O. Severn. R11EU M ATIC-N E U R A LG I A. Jkrsf.y City, No. 20 Charles Street, ) March 8, 1876. )' I)r. de KRAFr, No. 30 West 30th Street, New York : I w rite this ctrtificate to you so you may be able to publish it in your paper or pamphlet. I came to you just three weeks ago to lie relieved and cured of a Rheumatic Neuralgia pain I have hail for over two years in my arm and shoulder, so much that I could not move it, or do any work, nor could 1 sleep. I have tried many doctors and their remedies, but they failed to relieve me, and when 1 came to you I felt very bad indeed, but after you made the application l was free from any pain and felt entirely cured. I came afterwards to see you, but all the difficulty had vanished on the first application. Hoping you may do good to others as you have done to me, if anyone should like to learn the correctness of this, my certificate, 1 shall certainly endorse Dr. ch Kraft and his mode of treatment, and have confidence that he can cure more people who are sick than any physician in New York, and I do not wonder that he created enmity among a certain class of practitioners. Anna Maria Carroll. Sworn to before me at New York City, this 8th day of March, 1876. George E. Jardine, Notary 1‘ublic, City and County of New York. CURE OF SCIATICA RHEUMATISM. Huffman House, New York, [ • January 31, 1879. ) Peak Dixtor : For over two years I was afflicted with Sciatica Rheumatism ; I tried every known remedy and every doctor whom I thought would l>e a good doctor in that line, to cure me, but without any relief. What was I to do? I submitted to my pain and to my agony. If 1 moved alxiut at all it was only with the aid of crutches, and it was very hard latx>r at the l»est to walk with the help of them. 1'he pain I experienced at night was fearful ; 1 could not sleep at night without taking large doses of opium, so that by degrees I got to lie a regular opium eater ; but I was obliged to do so in order to gain an hour’s rest. In this helpless condition of pain and misery, 1 was sent to you by the Porter of the Hoffman House, whom you also hel|>ed from a severe Rheumatic attack. I came to your house to live in order that you might have me in full charge day and night, and, to my surprise and astonishment, the pain ami Rheumatism entirely left me in aliout twenty- foar applications 1 could, after a few applications, sleep at night without the use of the 16 opium, and do not feel the want of it any more. It is now three months since I left your house entirely cured, and I am as well as I was before I was attacked, and my general health a great deal better. I speak lor you and your treatment wherever I am, and I hope I may be able to direct some of the afflicted to come and see you. Yours, thankfully, Aifred Walker. To Dr. de Kraft. 30 West 3oth Street, City. CURE OF JAUNDICE. Manayunk, Philadelphia, July i, 1875. Dr. de Kraft : Dear Sir :—You can make use of my name and certificate in your Journal, that you have entirely cured me of a severe attack of Jaundice, with which I was afflicted for over two months. I had several physicians, who could not do anything to cure me, or even relieve me. I was advised by my friends, after all medicine had failed and I stood on the brink of the grave, to try electricity. I did try it. I was under treatment of an eminent electric physician three weeks in Philadelphia ; but instead of getting better I grew worse. Any one would have thought that this trial of electricicity would have been enough, and I was about giving up everything, with no hope in this world of recovery, when I heard of you, Dr de Kraft. You were recommended to me so highly by ladies and gentlemen whom you had cured, that I placed myself under your care and treatment at once—six applications of which you gave me in about two weeks. I was entirely cured. After the evil was removed by you and your galvanism and mode of treatment, I lost all yellowness of the skin, which was as deeply yellow as brass ; I regained my appetite and strength, and have gained thirty pounds since I was cured. It is now four months since I had my last treatment, and I am in a better state of health than I was previous to my severe sickness. This recovery, dear sir, was entirely unexpected ; all my friends, my husband, mother and sisters gave me up, and had no idea of my ever being well again ; and it seemed to me myself as raising one up from the dead. Thanks to you, I am living, and can be referred to. I am, dear sir, ever yours thankfully, Mrs. M. C. McCallen, 4425 Mam Street, Manayunk, Philadelphia. CURE OF DEBILITY AND BRONCHIAL INFLAMMATION. Dr. de Kraft, 30 Wf.st 30TH Street. For several years I was afflicted with Bronchial difficulties of a very severe nature, so much so that I feared something worse to set in and make short work of my life; debility and night sweats set in, and as I had these last very constantly I became quite alarmed; although Iliad many valuable remedies at my command, and also medical advice, yet the evil was rather on the increase than on the decrease, and as a friend of mine spoke of you to me, and advised me to try the treatment, I wrote to you to make arrange- ments to see you, and having done so, you made the diagnosis and pronounced me cur- able, following proper advice and to attend punctually to the treatment. I came to you and followed your advice; although I advanced slowly I did so very surely, and after taking about sixty treatments you pronounced me entirely cured; my nervous debility left me entirely, and it ’"s now more than 18 months since I left off treatment; I continue in very good health; one trouble I had for which you did not treat me at all, viz., a cnronic running of matter from my one ear,—and when I told you about it you made the remark that it would disappear altogether as my health would improve and my general system be made stronger; all of your sayings came true; I was afflicted with this alone for a period of about thirty years. I have full confidence in your mode of treatment, and I hope that by the writing of this letter, which you may publish in your book, you may be enabled to bring it before the eyes of the afflicted who are suffering and cannot find the help they need so much, and when other remedies have failed to do their work. I am, dear sir, Yours truly, C. C. Howard, New York, January 11, 1S84. Care Messrs. J. & W. Seligman & Co. Mills Building. N.B. Rooms are furnished to patients who wish to remain at the house while under treatment, and every comfort requisite to make it a home.