Black Oxen?

Case 2.--The patient was a teacher, aged 50. She complained of stiffness in the limbs, pain in the back, great exhausition, weakened memory and great mental depression. On July 22, 1922, one X-ray treatment was given. A few days later she felt very well. The backache had disappeared, and she said that she could walk without any great discomfort-- for the first time in several months. She had a distinct feeling of physical strength and energy.

She was examined again on Aug. 29, about six weeks after the treatment. Her so-called rheumatic pains had entirely disappeared; she had occasional palpitation of the heart; was decidedly less tired in spite of being overworked, and looked unusually well. All her friends remarked on the favorable change in her appearance.

This was one of six typical cases presented by Dr. Harry Benjamin, of Manhattan, to the New York Academy of Medicine to prove the success of his treatment of rejuvenation. His report is based on the cases of 70 New York women whom he has treated. No complete restoration of beauty is promised by Dr. Benjamin, but rather a revival of mental and nervous vitality. Forty-five is considered the age at which women should attempt to regain their lost youth.

Dr. Benjamin is a glandular specialist and in 20% of his cases uses a serum from goats' glands. In the other 80%, however, the X-ray treatment is used. The majority of patients are school teachers and nurses who feel the need of renewed energy to carry on their work. In many cases hair which has turned gray is supplanted by hair of the original color.

The alleged phenomenon of rejuvenation of women is associating itself in the popular mind with Black Oxen which was the title given to her recent novel by Mrs. Gertrude Atherton. In it she tells of Countess Zattiany who, at 57, recovers the power to live the life of youth.

Mrs. Atherton, aged 67, discussing the X-ray treatment, said:

"I'd take it with enthusiasm myself if I needed it. Fortunately I've always had an enormous amount of vitality which has not shown any signs of failing me yet. But I would not hesitate for one minute if, I felt my powers fagging. I cannot imagine why any woman should.

"There is no risk attached to it 'and nothing to lose. This whole subject has appealed to me because I've always had such an enormous interest in life--in the present and the future, but not the past, except the historic past."