Note 393 — ON AIRS, WATERS, AND PLACES.

Ῥηγματα καὶ σπάσματα. There has been much difference of opinion as to the exact import of these two terms. It would appear to me that they were intended to apply to a rupture or straining of the fibres, occasioned by external violence. M. Littré has a very interesting note on this subject, tom. v., p. 579. On these strainings see further Coacæ Prænotiones, 376, 418. M. Littré, l. c., relates a case of empyema brought on by lifting a heavy piece of wood. On these terms see further the Annotations on Demosthenes, Olynth. ii., 8, ed. Dobson; and Foës, Œc. Hippocr.