Pugilistic posture
Definition
The post-mortem flexion of the limbs and clenching of the hands caused by heat-induced differential contraction of flexor muscles. It indicates exposure to high heat after death, not evidence of a pre-mortem struggle.
Related terms
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Explained in
- Fire-Scene ArchaeologyThe post-mortem flexion of the limbs and clenching of the hands caused by heat-induced differential contraction of flexor muscles. It indicates exposure to hig...