Emprosthotonos is a medical term used to describe a type of spasm in which the body becomes rigid and is forced into a forward-bent position. The word is derived from the Greek language and its spelling reflects this origin. In terms of phonetics, the "e" at the beginning is pronounced as "eh", the "o" is pronounced as "oh", and the "t" is pronounced as a hard "t" sound. The "h" after the "t" changes the pronunciation to a "th" sound and the "s" at the end is pronounced as a "z".
Emprosthotonos is a medical term used to describe a severe type of muscle spasm or cramp that affects the back muscles and causes a person's body to arch forward in a rigid position. Derived from the Greek words "empros" meaning forward and "thonos" meaning tension, this condition is characterized by the abnormal flexion of the neck and spine, resulting in an arched or bowed appearance. Emprosthotonos is typically associated with certain neurological disorders or infections, particularly tetanus, in which it is a classic symptom.
During an episode of emprosthotonos, the affected individual experiences a sudden and involuntary contraction of the muscles in their back, causing the head to bend forward and the body to stiffen. This extreme extension of the neck and spine can be extremely painful and uncomfortable for the person experiencing it. Emprosthotonos may also be accompanied by other symptoms such as muscle stiffness, difficulty swallowing, and uncontrollable muscle spasms throughout the body.
Due to its association with tetanus, emprosthotonos is considered a serious medical condition that requires immediate medical attention. Treatment typically involves addressing the underlying cause, such as administering antibiotics and tetanus immunoglobulin in the case of tetanus infection. Additionally, medications may be prescribed to help manage muscle spasms and relieve pain. In severe cases, hospitalization and intensive care may be necessary to ensure proper monitoring and support.
A tetanic contraction of the flexor muscles, curving the back with concavity forward.
A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.
The word "Emprosthotonos" is derived from ancient Greek. It is a composite word consisting of two Greek terms: "empros" (ἔμπροσθεν), meaning "forward" or "in front", and "tonos" (τόνος), meaning "tension" or "stretching". Thus, the etymology of "Emprosthotonos" implies a condition or state in which an individual's body is stretched or bent forward. This term is primarily used in the field of medicine to describe a type of violent muscle spasm or convulsion that causes the body to arch forward.