What is Rigor Mortis?

Rigor Mortis is the stiffening of the body after death. It is caused by the chemical changes that take place in the muscles after death. The muscles contract and the body becomes rigid. Rigor mortis is the name for the stiffness of a body after death. The body’s muscles become rigid and the joints are frozen in place. This is caused by the release of lactic acid and other chemicals after death. The body gradually relaxes as the chemicals dissipate

Causes of Rigor Mortis

Rigor Mortis is the stiffening of the body after death. The cause of rigor mortis is the release of lactic acid from the muscles after death. Lactic acid is a waste product that is produced when the muscles use up their oxygen. When the body dies, the muscles stop working and the lactic acid builds up. This makes the muscles stiff and causes the body to become rigid. The cause of rigor mortis is the cessation of the body’s ability to produce energy. This occurs when the heart stops beating and the lungs can no longer provide oxygen. Without oxygen, the body’s cells cannot produce the energy necessary to keep the muscles and joints working. The time it takes for rigor mortis to set in varies, but typically begins within two to four hours after death.

Occurrence of Rigor Mortis

Rigor mortis is the technical term for the stiffening of a corpse following death. It is the result of chemical changes in the muscles, making them contract permanently. The first signs of rigor mortis are usually seen in the eyelids and jaw. The body eventually becomes completely rigid. Rigor mortis usually lasts for about 12 hours, although it can persist for up to 48 hours in extreme cases.

Stages

The first stage of rigor mortis is called Latent Rigor. This is where the body begins to stiffen, but there is still some movement possible. The second stage is called Active Rigor. This is where the body is completely stiff and movement is not possible. The third stage is called Terminal Rigor. This is where the body is completely stiff and there is no movement possible.

1. Latent stage: The body is still soft and pliable.

2. Active stage: The body starts to stiffen and the muscles contract.

3. Fixed stage: The body is fully rigid.

4. Detrimental stage: The body starts to decompose.

 

Infinity Learn App

Now you can find answer to all your subject queries & prepare for your Exams on our Test Preparation App – Infinity Learn.