We are repeatedly called upon for the theory of zone therapy. Many theories are interesting but not conclusive, and rather than be obliged to retract theories, we are not going to advance them, except very superficially, at the expense of clinical facts. It is certain that control-centers in the medulla are stimulated, as has been suggested, but I believe that it is shock more often than stimulation. Some theorists have pointed out, perhaps rightly, that “these functions may be carried out by the pituitary body (a ductless gland at the base of the brain) through the multiple nerve paths from it.” We know that we induce a state of inhibition--a state which prevents the transmission of the nerve impulse from the brain--throughout the zone where pressure is brought to bear. We know that when this inhibition of irritation is continuous, many pathological processes disappear. We are certain that lymphatic relaxation follows pressure, and the lymph stimulated to flow normally in its channels. The theory advanced by Dr. Bowers: “that inasmuch as there are ultra-microscopic bacteria--bacteria not seen through even the highest-powered lenses,--it is more than likely that in the light of this work there are ultra-microscopic connections analogous to those we call nerves,” may contain some elements of plausibility. Let the physician or the dentist, who ascribes these phenomena to suggestion, attempt to relieve an aching, left incisor, for instance, by pressing the little finger of the right hand of his patient, or exercise his persuasive powers on a throbbing molar by pressing the thumb of either hand. He will find himself up against a stone wall, so far as results are concerned, for only by exerting proper pressure, on the proper zone or zones, for an adequate length of time, will the pain disappear. Anticipating such contentions, and to avoid the merest hint at suggestion, we have purposely refrained from giving many patients any idea that we were even contemplating the relief of pain, and the first and only suggestions have been from the patient. He will tell that he experienced pain in his jaw, eye, small of back, knee, foot, or shoulder before pressure was made on his fingers, teeth, or elsewhere, and will ask, “where has the pain gone? Have you done anything to relieve it?” Pathological conditions from irritation in the nose, epipharynx, pharynx, mouth, vagina, rectum, etc., may be responsible not only for annoying local manifestations, but for obscure pathological changes in the most remote sections of the body; and their course can usually be traced through an individual zone or group of zones. There is not an existing pathological condition that cannot at least be relieved, and a large proportion can be cured by zone therapy.