al conveniences, so that the applications can be
made in the recumbent position, and also that proper intervals of rest
be allowed between successive operations. For this purpose couches are
provided, each containing a certain portion of the Manipulator. These
are operated by means of a short connecting-rod, joining the rock-shafts
of the two pieces of mechanism, as shown in Fig. 10. The Vibrator has
two small discs, or heads acting through an opening in the couch on
which the invalid rests. These impinge with a rapid, direct stroke upon
the portion of the body exposed to the action. The top of the couch is
adjustable, and is quickly placed at the elevation which secures the
proper force of the instrument, as shown in Fig 11. By simply turning
and moving the body, the patient brings any part in contact with the
vibrating discs. The cut represents the Vibrator, in which the force
impinges at right angles with the surface of the body, sending waves of
motion through its substance.

[Illustration: Fig. 12.
Apparatus for the Rubbing in a Recumbent Position.]

The rubbing which is shown in Figs. 4 and 5 may be applied to all parts
of the body in a recumbent position. A couch is required of similar
construction to the vibrating couch, but with a rubbing-pad instead of
vibrating heads acting through the opening and operated by appropriate
connections, as shown in Fig. 12. The top is adjustable, and the degree
of effect desired is capable of easy regulation. The patient turns
different portions of the body to the action of the rubber as required.

KNEADING. Kneading is a process applied chiefly to the abdomen. The
purpose of this operation is to increase nutrition, the muscular power
and action of the abdominal walls, and the function of the organs which
they contain. Three modes of applying this operation by the mechanical
apparatus are in use, effected by the Direct, the Rotary, and the
Revolving Kneader.

[Illustration: Fig. 13.
Apparatus for Rotary Kneading.]

THE DIRECT KNEADER. This resembles in form and action the vibrating
instrument shown in Fig. 11. The impinging heads, however, are made
broader, the motion greater in extent, and the rate of motion less than
one-tenth of that employed for the purpose of vibrating. This slowness
of motion seems to increase the action of the muscles.

THE ROTARY KNEADER. The action of the kneading heads in this form of
apparatus, as shown in Fig. 13, is _inward_ and _upward_ alte