Roman Doctors – The Medicus
The Medicus in the Roman Empire was a physician who played a critical role in the health and medical care of the population, including soldiers and gladiators. Their responsibilities varied widely, from general medical practice to specialised surgical procedures.
Primary Healthcare Providers
The Medici (plural of Medicus) provided general medical care to Roman citizens, soldiers, and slaves. They treated various ailments, performed surgeries, and provided preventive care.
Medical Training
Many Medici were trained through apprenticeships with experienced physicians or by studying medical texts, such as those of Hippocrates and Galen. Some may have also received training in Alexandria, a major centre of medical knowledge.
Specialised Medics - Treating Wounded Gladiators
Special Medici were assigned to gladiatorial schools (ludi), where they treated wounded gladiators. Due to the severe and often life-threatening injuries gladiators sustained, these physicians had to be highly skilled.
Given the nature of their work, Medici who treated gladiators were often skilled surgeons. They performed complex procedures such as suturing deep wounds, amputations, and trepanations (drilling into the skull to relieve pressure).
Effective pain management was crucial. The Medicus used opium and other narcotics to help manage severe pain, as well as herbal sedatives like henbane.
23 Treatments Used by 'Doctors' - Treatment of Wounded Gladiators and Sick Romans
Wine and Vinegar for cleaning and disinfecting wounds
Honey applied to wounds for its antibacterial properties
Sutures using linen or animal sinew to stitch wounds
Bandages made from linen strips to cover wounds and prevent infection
Willow Bark for pain relief (contains salicin, a precursor to aspirin)
Garlic for its antiseptic properties
Aloe Vera for soothing burns and promoting wound healing
Opium used as a painkiller
Henbane for its sedative and pain-relieving effects
Splinting using wooden splints to immobilise broken bones
Traction by applying tension to align bones correctly
Cool Water and Oils to soothe and treat burns
Herbal Pastes from plants like myrrh or frankincense for their healing properties
Hot Iron or Boiling Oil used to cauterise wounds and stop bleeding
Venesection using a small blade to release blood from a vein
Amputation in severe cases of injury or infection
Trepanation drilling a hole in the skull to relieve pressure from head injuries
Massage to relieve muscle pain and improve circulation
Exercise Regimens to help injured gladiators regain strength and mobility
Nutritious Diet rich in proteins and vitamins to aid in recovery
Herbal Teas and Infusions to support general health and recovery
Clay or Mud Poultices for reducing swelling and pain
Hot and Cold Compresses to manage pain and inflammation
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