-This is generally a rheumatic affection of the muscles of the neck. The commonest cause of it is chill, though a sudden turn of the head will sometimes seem to cause it. It is attended with great pain on every movement of the muscles involved, compelling the patient to hold his head in such a position that no strain is put upon them. After a few days of suffering the muscles gradually return to their normal state, when freedom of movement is restored. When the condition is persistent it may depend on some disorder of the spinal nerves.
General Treatment.-The application of heat is the best local remedy. For the purpose hot flannels, hot salt or bran in a flannel bag, or hot irons may be used. The last is perhaps the most efficacious. A few folds of brown paper are laid on the affected part, and over these is passed a hot flat-iron.
Medicines.-(Every hour or two until relieved.)
Aconite 3.
-IF traceable to a distinct chill, and if the patient is peevish, restless, and anxious.
Bryonia 3.
-The part is painful to touch. The least motion causes great pain.
Actea r.3.
-Rheumatic pains and stiffness in muscles of neck and back.
Pulsatilla3.
Pains better out-of-doors, worse indoors.
