What characterizes decorticate posturing?

Decorticate posturing is characterized by the flexion of the arms and extension of the legs. This specific posture occurs as a response to severe brain injury or damage, commonly associated with dysfunction in the cortical and subcortical areas of the brain.

In this posture, the individual's arms are flexed toward the chest, often indicating a protective position, while the legs remain extended and may display a more rigid stance. This combination suggests that there is some preserved neural function in the upper parts of the brain, indicating that the response originates from the brain's cortical areas. Recognizing postures like decorticate posturing is crucial for assessing neurological status and understanding the extent of brain injury in patients.