Which posture is characterized by rigid extension of arms and legs?

Decerebrate posturing is a specific type of abnormal body posture that occurs when the brain is under significant stress, often due to severe brain injury. In this posture, the arms and legs are extended straight out and rigid, representing a response that indicates significant dysfunction of the brainstem. This posture typically occurs when there is damage to the upper brainstem, disrupting the normal functioning of the brain's regulatory systems.

It’s important to recognize that decerebrate posturing is typically associated with profound changes in consciousness and may be a sign of a serious condition, such as a traumatic brain injury or a stroke. Understanding this posture is crucial in clinical scenarios as it helps in assessing the state of a patient’s neurological function and informing further medical intervention.