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124
Notes on the Groups.
1 . Rickets.
22 were marked cases with bony curvature, 13 were mild and
9 muscular in type. They attended very well. Several children had
repeated long courses occupying from 6 to 12 months with intervals of
rest from treatment when advised. The results have been cheering to the
persevering mothers. The only failure to improve in this group was a
very weakly child, transferred to the Observation Wards and there found
to be suffering from a chronic intestinal disease.
2. Disturbed Dentition.
This group always proves important, in view of the serious effects
of teething on health in the type of child seen at the Light Clinics. Infants
who come ailing with distressing symptoms improve remarkably and
quickly, and I think many are tided over the period and thus escape
serious complications (e.g., Otitis), while the "merely" debilitated
regain their sleeping habits (invariably upset in dentition), and recover
weight and spirits. We see the benefit of U.V.R. week by week more
plainly in this group perhaps than in any other.
4 & 5. Debility and Malnutrition.
We can claim much benefit for most of these though I do not look for
complete cures in all. The (milder) psychological disorders which fall
into this group are usually cured or much improved by the physical tonic
combined with change of mental atmosphere.
7. Prematurity.
The 17 premature infants referred to the Clinic all responded extremely
well and I hope more will come, as sunshine, real or artificial, is of great
benefit to the premature.
10. Various Ailments.
One asthma case did well here. One dermatitis in a young baby was
a very good cure under careful local application of ultra-violet light.
Six cases of knock knee and flat feet improved under treatment.
During the height of the heat wave I discontinued treatments by both
types of lamp at Simpsons Road, and our Sister-in-charge was able to
entertain some of the children in open-air conditions. We hope to have
a garden plot for hot summer use at Bow also in future.