Renaissance medicine was critical to the development of our modern
medical system, advancing the science rapidly. As with all intellectual
pursuits during the period, the Renaissance stimulated medical
practice, spurring physicians and scholars towards the scientific study
of medicine as never before in history. Many innovative discoveries
during this period made medical practice more accurate and effective,
increasing the knowledge and capabilities of medical professionals
throughout the world.
Research
into human anatomy was done during the period of Renaissance medicine,
leading to discoveries that corrected a great many medical
misconceptions that had been plaguing the science for generations. This
newly discovered information was spread rapidly with the aid of
printing, another invention of the Renaissance period. Among the most
important anatomists of the time was Andreas Vesalius, who published
many illustrations of his work.
Great strides in
pharmaceutical methods were also made in the era of Renaissance
medicine, as the traditional Arabic methods were studied and improved.
Medications were developed that were capable of stopping or reducing
pain, such as laudanum. Infectious diseases were studied, and
advancements in surgical procedures were made, such as anesthesia for
surgical patients and ligatures to stop the bleeding of wounds.
Renaissance
medicine was characterized by a movement away from theological
influence over the medical profession, moving it towards its roots in
ancient Greek medicine in the resurgence of scientific observation and
methods. During the dark ages, the practice of medicine was largely
stagnant, the physicians of the time adhering to established dogma. The
Renaissance brought a new dawn of intellectualism, encouraging the
independence of mind that led to these many great advancements in the
practice of medicine.
Few periods in history were as
important to the development of our modern medical system as
Renaissance medicine. By bravely breaking free of medieval societal
constraints, the physicians of this period paved the way for many of
the miracles of modern medicine.