1. On the basis of radiographic studies the incidence of degenerative change in the intervertebral disc in primitive squatting populations is considerably less than that found in civilised peoples.

2. The suggestion is made that lordosis is implicated in the pathogenesis of degeneration, but further studies are required.

1. Experimental evidence is advanced to suggest that the effect of the McMurray displacement osteotomy in osteoarthritis of the hip is to diminish the load carried by the head of the femur, firstly by correction of deformity, and secondly by a "pelvic support" action.

2. A review of seventy-five cases has revealed certain important details in selection and operative management. The end-results indicate that the operation, when correctly performed, is successful in relieving pain and diminishing disability.

1. It is possible that neonatal sciatic palsy occurs more often than is suggested by perusal of the literature: paralysis of a foot may easily be overlooked in the new-born infant; it may be regarded as a temporary paresis due to mild birth trauma; or in later months it may be attributed to poliomyelitis.

2. Eleven cases of neonatal sciatic palsy are reported. Autopsy in one suggested that the paralysis was due to direct pressure on the sciatic nerve before birth.

3. A hypothesis is advanced by which to explain how pressure on the nerve trunk may arise in utero.