Diagram 2 shows the outlines of a typical over-fat subject. At the time of fitting the same make of so-called "abdominal reducing" corset was worn as that shown on the figure in diagram 1 and photographed upon fourth subject, plate 1, on page 26. Practically the same conditions were met as in the first case except for size of subject, and the same physiological results obtained. Body without corsets, shown by the dotted outline, was better in poise and proportion than with the corset worn, shown by the broken outline, which brought extreme pressure around lower portion of thorax, pressed abdomen down and forward, ending at a point which left entire weight of abdomen unsupported, and threw balanced weight of - body directly upon the heels. Difficulty of breathing and an inability to stand or walk any distance made life very uncomfortable for this woman, The corrective fitting gave upward and inward support to the abdomen, carried the balanced weight of the body forward to normal position, relieved the pressure on diaphragm and rib wall, lifted the head and straightened the shoulders. The comparative table shows the differences in the lateral measurements:
Age, 42. Height, 5 ft., 3½ in. Weight, 208 lbs. | |||
(Measurements taken in inches.) | Body. | Incorrect Corset. | Correct Corset. |
Bust | 45 | 47 | 49 |
Waist | 36½ | 34 | 38 |
Hips | 50 | 51 | 47 |
Width of thorax at 9th rib | 11¾ | 11 | 12½ |
Depth of abdomen | 14¾ | 15 | 12½ |
(Taken from front to back) |