This bath consists in a number of fine streams of water thrown upon the
bather, with considerable force. It may be produced by connecting a hose
with spray attachment to a force-pump or reservoir from which to obtain
water under a sufficient pressure. The best form of attachment consists
of a hollow double-convex brass or copper piece, one side of which is
perforated with fine holes, the other side carrying a rim for attachment
to the hose. It is preferable to have an arrangement by which the
temperature may be readily and gradually changed from warm or tepid to
cool without interrupting the bath. In the absence of a proper spray
attachment, the apparatus elsewhere described for the hose douche may be
made to answer a very good purpose, the stream being broken by placing
the thumb or finger over the nozzle in such a way as to partially
obstruct the flow.
This is an excellent bath to follow the pack, vapor bath, hot-air bath,
sitz bath, or any other general bath which induces perspiration. It is
very agreeable to most persons, and can be applied to feeble patients
who would be unable to take any more severe form of treatment. The
alternate hot and cold spray is very successful as a means of reducing
local inflammations. The warm bath is very grateful and soothing to
swollen and rheumatic joints; in gout, also, and illy defined, wandering
pains, it is an admirable remedy. It is very successful, also, in the
treatment of tumors, abscesses, and chronic ulcers, when thoroughly
applied.