Usually the result of old age, chronic rheumatism or lumbago, but sometimes the result of sprains, a blow or other injury, such as being run over across the back. The patient in most cases walks with difficulty or may start out all right and in the best of spirits, but before going far begins to lag, loses its spirits and drops its tail. In most cases there is pain evidenced upon pressure being applied to the back. In other cases the patent can walk very well, but is unable to jump. Treatment consists of absolute rest and the use of a good liniment, the following being recommended: Tincture of hyoscyamus one-half ounce, chloroform one-half ounce, spirits of camphor one ounce, soap liniment one ounce. The parts should be massaged and this liniment applied with gentle friction twice a day. It is also advisable to give a dose of aperient medicine and to feed on a light diet.