ne is of an excessively
sensitive nature, and while it lines the inner face of the ligaments,
both capsular and fascicular, it is attached only upon the edges of the
bones, without extending upon their length, or between the layers of
cartilage which lie between the bones and their articular surfaces.

Our object in thus partially and concisely reviewing the structure and
condition of the essential organs of locomotion has been rather to
outline a sketch which may serve as a reference chart of the general
features of the subject than to offer a minute description of the parts
referred to. Other points of interest will receive proper attention as
we proceed with the illustration of our subject and examine the matters
which it most concerns us to bring under consideration. The foundation
of facts which we have thus far prepared will be found sufficiently
broad, we trust, to include whatever may be necessary to insure a ready
comprehension of the essential matters which are to follow as our review
is carried forward to completion. What we have said touching these
elementary truths will probably be sufficient to facilitate a clear
understanding of the requirements essential to the perfection and
regularity which characterize the normal performance of the various
movements that result in the accomplishment of the action of locomotion.
So long as the bones, the muscles and their tendons, the joints with
their cartilages, their ligaments, and their synovial structure, the
nerves and the controlling influences which they exercise over all, with
the blood vessels which distribute to every part, however minute, the
vitalizing fluid which sustains the whole fabric in being and
activity--so long as these various constituents and adjuncts of animal
life preserve their normal exemption from disease, traumatism, and
pathological change, the function of locomotion will continue to be
performed with perfection and efficiency.

On the other hand, let any element of disease become implanted in one or
several of the parts destined for combined action, any change or
irregularity of form, dimensions, location, or action occur in any
portion of the apparatus--any obstruction or misdirection of vital power
take place, any interference with the order of the phenomena of normal
nature, any loss of harmony and lack of balance be betrayed--and we have
in the result the condition of lameness.

DEFINITION OF LAMENESS.

_Physiology._--Comprehen