S. Weir Mitchell, Successes and Failures of the Father of American Neurology (P4.9-061)

Objective: The purpose of this poster will be to review the biography of the Philadelphia Neurologist, Dr. S. Weir Mitchell, his contributions to Neurology and his theories that have since been refuted. The poster will finish by reviewing how the science and medicine of Neurology has evolved and lessons for today Background: S. Weir Mitchell is termed the Father of American Neurology. He was placed in charge of Nervous injury during his service in the civil career starting a fascinating career. He discovered CRPS, phantom limb and created the rest cure since rejected as not based on found science. Of note, his practice was based in Philadelphia where he predominantly treated women rich enough to afford his care. Looking back at his complicated history as AAN meets in Philadelphia will give us insight into him and our practice. Design/Methods: We reviewed relevant source information including several biographies of his life, a review of his scientific papers and a review of Google, Bing, and other search engine material. Contemporary Journals were compared to current understanding to compare his beliefs at the time to current standard understanding. Results: S. Weir Mitchell was a uniquie individual who spearheaded multiple innovations in the field including discovering Causalgia (CRPS), work on toxicology, coining the term phantom limb. He also embraced several contemporary ideas no longer accepted as current care particularly his introduction of the “Rest Cure” for neurasthenia/hysteria. Conclusions: n/a Disclosure: Dr. Kalikstein has nothing to disclose. Dr. Rosen has received personal compensation for consulting, serving on a scientific advisory board, speaking, or other activities with Allergan, Axon Optics, Theranica, Allergan, Teva, Eli Lilly, Supernus, Promius, Curelator, Allergan.