The Art of the Bone-Setter: A Testimony and a Vindication

"The Art of the Bone-Setter: A Testimony and a Vindication" by George Matthews Bennett is a historical account written in the late 19th century. The book delves into the practice and philosophy of bone-setting, a traditional practice often dismissed by the formal medical community, and presents a defense of its efficacy through patient testimonies and historical examples. Overall, the work seeks to legitimize bone-setting as a valuable form of treatment for dislocated joints, fractures, and sprains, often showing its comparative success against conventional surgery. The opening of the text introduces the author’s motivation for writing, which stems from requests made by his patients and friends to document the value of bone-setting. Bennett shares his heritage as a descendant of notable bone-setters, emphasizing his respect for the practice and the positive impact it has had on countless patients who were often failed by mainstream medical approaches. He recounts historical perspectives on bone-setters, including dismissals by the medical profession, while highlighting breakthroughs that have begun to shift these attitudes. The author intends to combine anecdotal evidence from grateful patients with the long lineage of successful bone-setters to affirm the technique’s credibility and effectiveness, setting the stage for detailed testimonies and reflections throughout the book.