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MUSCULAR RHEUMATISM

Categories: Constitutional Diseases

This is a very painful affection of the voluntary
muscles, called also neuralgia, or according to its location, torticollis

(stiff neck, wry neck), pleurodynia, lumbago (rheumatism in the back).



Causes. Predisposed to it by previous attacks, having a rheumatic or

gouty constitution (diathesis). It follows sudden exposure, hence it is

most common in men.



Symptoms. Local pain in the muscles, sharp or
dull, aching constant, or

caused by certain movements and is usually relieved by pressure. It lasts

from a few days to several weeks and frequently recurs. The common forms

are: Lumbago. This affects the muscles of the back, and usually comes on

suddenly with a sharp stich-like pain, and is chiefly seen in those who

labor hard, often completely disabling them for a time.



Torticollis (stiff or wry neck). It is usually on the side or back of the

neck. Comes from a draught of cold wind on the neck, etc.



Pleurodynia, pain in the chest muscles, etc. With pain in all movements

of the chest, resembling intercostal neuralgia or pleurisy.






Diet for Rheumatism from the Head Nurse of a Prominent Hospital:--



May Take--



Soups. Mutton broth, chicken or beef tea, in small quantities.



Fish. Raw clams or oysters, fresh fish (whiter kinds) boiled.



Meats. Chicken, calf 's head, sweetbread, tripe, broiled fat bacon or

broiled ham (all sparingly).



Farinaceous. Whole wheat, corn or brown bread, arrowroot, rice, dry

toast, milk toast.



Vegetables. Spinach, green peas or cabbage (well boiled), celery,

lettuce, cresses, radishes.



Desserts. Milk, rice or arrowroot pudding, (all without sugar), junket.



Drinks--Tea (without sugar), buttermilk, pure water, plain with lemon or

lime juice (no sugar).



Must Not Take--



Pork, veal, turkey, goose, duck, fried fish or salt meats, cooked oysters

or clams, salted, dried, potted or preserved fish or meats (except fat

bacon or ham), crabs, salmon, lobster, eggs, rich made dishes, gravies,

potatoes, tomatoes, beans, asparagus, mushrooms, candies, rich puddings,

pies, pastry, nuts, cheese, coffee, cider, malt liquors, wines.



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