The Mobility of the Brain.

Waikato Times, Volume XXIV, Issue 1994, 18 April 1885, Page 2 (Supplement)

The Mobility of the Brain.

It has long been known that the brain in normal conditions undergoes certain rhythmioal movements. The powerful vessels at its base cause tho cerebral mass to rise and fall with each systole and diastole of the heart. The brain also rises slightly with each expiration and sinks with each inspiration. These phenomena are dependent, it is presumed, upon the presence of the cerero spinal fluid, since when that is withdrawn tho movements cease. M. Luys, in a paper recently read before the Aoademie do Medecine, states that the brain is subject to still other changes in position, dependent upon the attitude of the body. If a man is in the dorsal decubitus, or lies upon his side, or stands upon his hoad, the brain undergoes certain corresponding changes in position in obedienca to the laws of gravity. Tho movements takes place slowly, and the brain ia five or six minutes in returning to its first position. From these anatomical data M. Luys deduces some striking concluaious of practical interest. He explains, npon the theory of gravitating movements, the symptona of vrrtigo and faintneas which feeble persons experience when suddenly rising from a hori zontal position. He asks if the pains of meningitis are not due to an interference with these normal movements. In oases of insanity he calls attention to the excitability and agitation which often come on when the patient lies down at night. As a practical point in mental hygiene, M. Luys advised against prolonged travel during most of the day, and urged the value of giving the brain the change produced by a hon/.ontal position at night. — The Medical Rccoid.