Source edition
Hippocrates. Oeuvres complètes d'Hippocrate, Vol. 4. Littré, Émile, editor. Paris: Baillière, 1844
Source data
A Digital Corpus for Graeco-Arabic Studies · CC BY-SA 4.0
Cloned and adapted by Humanitext, with ongoing edits.
Summary
This practical medical treatise, associated with the Hippocratic corpus, focuses on the diagnosis and reduction (treatment) of bone fractures and joint dislocations. It begins with a detailed anatomical description of the skeletal structure, including the limbs, spine, and chest, followed by specific procedures for managing injuries to the nose, ears, jaw, and shoulders. The text meticulously analyzes various dislocations of the elbow, wrist, and hip joint, explaining their clinical signs according to the direction of displacement and their long-term prognoses, particularly during growth periods. It also covers diverse orthopedic conditions, ranging from the correction of congenital clubfoot to the dangers of open dislocations and the necessity of amputations. In its latter sections, the work describes the structure and practical application of various traction devices and levers, notably the 'Hippocratic bench,' demonstrating advanced physical therapy techniques. This treatise serves as a vital record of ancient orthopedics, showcasing a systematic and rational approach to restoring bodily injuries based on anatomical knowledge.