Decorticate posture
Definition:
An abnormal posturing exemplified by rigidity, flexion of the arms, clenched fists, and extended legs. The person holds the arms bent and inward toward the body with the wrists and fingers bent and held on the chest; the legs are straight out, pointed toe-in and toe-down (inward rotation and plantar flexion).
Considerations:
Decorticate posture indicates damage to the corticospinal tract (the pathway between the brain and spinal cord). Although a serious sign, it is usually more favorable than decerebrate posture.
Decorticate posture may progress to decerebrate posture, or the two may alternate. The posturing may occur on one or both sides of the body.
Common causes:
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