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129
Notes on the Groups.
Rickets.
A long course is required, and eventually marked improvement is
obvious or often a complete cure. The mothers, who persevered admirably
in attending, have been rewarded by seeing the good effects. One or
two severe cases of bony change were referred to Hospital and had more
drastic treatment, returning after this for more Light. The slighter
cases recovered.
Disturbed Dentition.
I here include the numerous ailments associated with teething,
some of which are severe afflictions which deprive the child of sleep.
Response to ultra violet ray is almost always prompt and good, the
calming effect being especially noticeable (and welcomed) in the home.
The general health, pari passu, markedly improves.
Debility.
I have sub-divided this group, classing 23 as cases of Nervous Debility.
This well-worn diagnosis might be replaced by the term Emotional
Maladjustment. These children, in poor health and appetite, were
unhappy, unstable, morbidly solitary and so on. Jealousy was an
obvious cause in some, and often unconscious. I am pleased to find
that the combined physical and mental tonic of the Clinic greatly aided
the patients in their recovery. They are an important group, since the
unconscious enjoyment of life in childhood is irreplaceable afterwards.
A few ("failures") among the badly debilitated had to be recommended
for convalescent treatment as they needed change of air, diet and
environment.
Prematurity.
It is generally accepted that all premature infants need "plenty of
sunshine." This small group responded very well to ultra violet rays,
and I hope more cases will come to us.
Mothers.
Of the 60 mothers reported on, two were referred for necessary hospital
treatment early in the course. The remaining 58 I classify with the
results obtained.