History of magnetic stimulation of the nervous system

The use of a time-varying magnetic field to induce a sufficiently strong current to stimulate living tissue was first reported by d'Arsonval in 1896. Since then, there have been many studies in what is now called magnetic stimulation. This paper traces the history of this field from d'Arsonval to its present use in neurophysiology.

Electricity: a history of its use in the treatment of mental illness in Britain during the second half of the 19th century

The use of electricity in British psychiatry during the second half of the 19th century is examined. An account is given of the clinical and theoretical aspects of electrical therapy. Factors leading to its use and eventual decline are considered.

The electrified hand--psychotherapeutic implications

During the 19th century, the human hand was used as an instrument for applying electricity to a patient's body to treat neurasthenia and other ailments.