“Glenard’s whole theory of splanchnoptosia is based on the relaxation of the suspensory ligaments of the intestines, especially that of the transverse colon; and Stiller, the discoverer of the floating tenth rib, says that splanchnoptosia is a descent of the atonic stomach, of the colon (especially the transverse portion), of the kidney (the right or both kidneys), exceptionally of the liver or the spleen. A descent which has been developed mostly in tender age, in consequence of general relaxation, especially of the peritoneal suspensory ligaments in individuals with congenital general dyspeptic neurasthenia, tender muscles, lean habit, and slender bone structure, manifested in a higher degree by a floating tenth rib.” Stiller observed that when there is a floating tenth rib there is a displaced stomach and a floating kidney, although it is not found in every case, but never missing if the case is pronounced. The tenth ribs in these cases have only a ligamentous fastening and are as freely movable as the eleventh and twelfth. That abdominal relaxation plays a very important part in many diseases of the abdominal and pelvic organs, in cardiac and pulmonary affections, disturbs the circulation in the legs, and is the source of many reflex affections no one can gainsay. The osteopath should always pay particular attention to tonic condition of the abdominal viscera, for relaxation of the suspensory tissues and walls, and atony and sluggishness of the organs are frequently paramount etiological factors. And the osteopathic treatment is the remedy par excellence. FOOTNOTES: [45] Rose and Kemp—Atonia Gastricia. [46] Rose and Kemp—Atonia Gastricia. SKIN DISEASES