Shell-shock and other neuropsychiatric problems

In August, 1915, an officer was blown many yards by a shell, lay unconscious a while, could find no bruises, and carried on for twenty-four hours. Then, finding legs unreliable, he reported sick and was sent home as “Shell-shock.” He remained “Shell-shock” until February, 1916, then being able to walk five or six miles on smooth ground. Going downstairs he took the step with left foot rather than with right, and the right was apt to turn in. The sense of position and movement in regard to the right foot proved to be faulty. He could not balance himself on the right foot, nor could he appreciate tuning fork vibrations as well on this foot as on the other.