Camptocormia (/kæmptəʊˈkɔːmɪə/) is a medical condition that causes a forward flexion of the trunk, commonly found in patients with Parkinson's disease. The word is derived from the Greek words "kampto" meaning "to bend" and "kormos" meaning "trunk". The spelling of this word can be broken down using International Phonetic Alphabet. The first sound is pronounced as /kæmp/ with emphasis on the "a" sound. The second half of the word is pronounced as /təʊˈkɔːmɪə/ with emphasis on the "o" sound in "kormos".
Camptocormia is a medical term used to describe a rare and relatively uncommon condition characterized by an excessive forward bending of the trunk, typically seen in individuals when they are standing or walking. The word "camptocormia" is derived from the Greek words "kamptos," meaning bent, and "kormos," meaning trunk.
This abnormal posture, also known as "bent spine syndrome" or "bent back syndrome," is typically observed in older individuals, especially those affected by Parkinson's disease, but it can also be associated with other neurological conditions, such as dystonia, myopathy, or spinal disorders. The degree of flexion or bending can vary from mild to severe, with some individuals experiencing significant difficulty in maintaining an upright position.
Camptocormia can have a significant impact on an individual's quality of life, as it can cause pain, gait disturbances, and difficulties with daily tasks. While the exact cause of camptocormia is still not completely understood, it is thought to involve a combination of muscular, skeletal, and neurological factors.
Treatment options for camptocormia may include physical therapy, the use of braces or orthotics to correct the posture, medication management, or in severe cases, surgical intervention. The goal of treatment is typically to alleviate pain, improve posture, and enhance functional ability.
In summary, camptocormia is a medical term used to describe the excessive forward bending of the trunk, often seen in individuals with neurological conditions. It is characterized by an abnormal posture that can cause pain and difficulty with daily tasks, but treatment options are available to manage the condition.
A deformity characterized by habitual flexion of the trunk, the spine, however, not being rigid.
A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.
The word "camptocormia" originated from Greek roots. It is derived from two Greek words:
1. "Kamptos" (καμπτός) meaning "bent" or "curved".
2. "Kormos" (κορμός) meaning "trunk" or "torso".
When combined, "kamptos" and "kormos" form "camptocormia", which describes a medical condition characterized by an abnormal forward posture of the trunk, often resulting in a severe forward flexion of the spine. This condition is usually associated with muscle weakness or dystonia.