Pictured here is a fascinating medical instrument in the WCHC’s collection. The item is pictured in its felt covered case. The small glass tubes (wands) are inserted into the end of the handle.
From what can be found, this is that quite possibly a dental instrument. The handle has a high and low setting for the amount of electricity, or possible light that would pass through the interior of wand. It was a completely harmless tool; but it would administer “Electrotherapy” to the dental patient. The advantage to the patient is that it would somehow promote healthy teeth and gums.
“Electrotherapy was frequently utilized during the nineteenth century for the treatment of a variety of ailments. The theory behind this use of electricity was defined as early as 1783, when Johann Gottlob Kruger suggested that electrification could induce changes in the body that would restore and maintain health. During this period, electrification was shown to increase blood circulation, a development that led to increased acceptance of the therapeutic potential of electricity. During the nineteenth century, electrical devices became extremely popular in the United States and Europe. Although they were typically expensive and ineffective, they were generally fairly harmless to users.” (1)
The manufacturer of this device was Cameron’s Surgical Specialty Company, which existed in Chicago from 1915-1959. The “Cool X-raylite” was patented sometime between 1916-1923. (2)(3)
Electrotherapy is something still used today, in which the effectiveness is often questioned. It can be seen in a something known as “The Zapper” which uses the power from a 9-volt battery. Other examples include magnetic therapy and other means that can be investigated online.
Sources:
1. Website of The American Academy of Otolaryngology – Head and Neck Surgery – Virtual Museum Exhibits -- Electrotherapy.
2. http://www.cameronville.com/crofts/tom-kari/cameron/cssc/
3. http://www.ebay.com
