Fencing
Fencing (Medicine)
Fencing (pronunciation: /ˈfɛnsɪŋ/) is a term used in the field of neurology to describe a specific posturing in which an individual extends one arm in front while flexing the other, similar to the stance adopted in the sport of fencing. This is often seen in patients with certain neurological conditions, such as seizure disorders or following a stroke.
Etymology
The term 'fencing' in this context is derived from the sport of the same name, due to the similarity in postures. The sport itself has its roots in the Middle Ages, where it was practiced as a form of swordsmanship. The medical term was adopted in the 20th century as neurologists began to identify and categorize different types of posturing seen in neurological patients.
Related Terms
- Decorticate posturing: This is a type of abnormal body posture that involves the arms being held flexed, or bent, towards the body, and the legs being extended straight out.
- Decerebrate posturing: This is an abnormal body posture that involves the arms and legs being held straight out, the toes being pointed downward, and the head and neck being arched backward.
- Opisthotonos: This is a condition in which the body is held in a characteristic backward arching posture, with the head and heels touching or nearly touching the ground.
- Seizure: A sudden, uncontrolled electrical disturbance in the brain. It can cause changes in behavior, movements or feelings, and in levels of consciousness.
- Stroke: A medical condition in which poor blood flow to the brain results in cell death.
External links
- Medical encyclopedia article on Fencing
- Wikipedia's article - Fencing
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