nfluence
the coats of vessels, except such as are close to the skin, but
tonicizes these latter more effectually than the galvanic current; that
it stimulates the peripheral nerves to some extent, though far inferior
in this respect to the galvanic current; but that when employed of
sufficient intensity it superadds to those mentioned a strictly
mechanical action, which consists in forcing static blood from the
capillary into the general circulation through the medium of muscular
contractions.

As a

GENERAL COUNTER-IRRITANT

the _galvanic_ bath has few if any superiors. The degree of
counter-irritation can be very nicely determined by regulating the
intensity of the current. The characteristic tingling sensation of the
galvanic current is felt over the entire surface, corresponding in
degree of course to the intensity of the current; while the redness of
the skin, bearing a like relation to the intensity of the current, is
observable more especially near the electrodes, being particularly
conspicuous over the entire back. Concentrated local counter-irritation
can be obtained by the use of the surface board.

The counter-irritant effects of the galvanic bath, differ from those of
ordinary counter-irritants in their freedom from pain, even the slight
burning sensation accompanying strong currents ceasing with the
application. The redness remains quite a while and the stimulus to the
peripheral circulation causes the persistence for some time of a
"glowing" sensation all over the body.

In the chapter on physiological effects enough has been stated to make
it apparent that as a

GENERAL INVIGORANT AND TONIC

the electric bath can have few if any superiors. In the healthy
organism, however, the stimulant and tonic effects of the baths are much
less marked than they are where the general condition is "below par." In
health there is little or no margin for improvement. The results
obtained are _temporary_ stimulation, and a permanent invigoration which
partakes more of artificial development than anything else. It is
analogous to the development by gymnastic or other exercise of a
previously healthy set of muscles. Where we meet with atonic conditions
however, with debility, malnutrition, want of energy or general asthenia
of an obscure nature, and amenable to electric influence, the tonic
effects of the baths become striking and brilliant. I have observed
cases where