Waxy flexibility
Waxy Flexibility
Waxy flexibility (pronunciation: wak-see flek-suh-bil-i-tee) is a psychiatric symptom characterized by a patient's body parts remaining in any position they are placed in. The term is derived from the characteristic of wax to retain its shape after being moulded. It is most commonly associated with catatonic schizophrenia, but can also be seen in other mental disorders.
Etymology
The term "waxy flexibility" is derived from the English words "waxy", referring to the characteristic of wax to retain its shape after being moulded, and "flexibility", referring to the ability to be easily modified. It was first used in the late 19th century to describe a symptom of catatonia, a state of unresponsiveness in a psychiatric patient.
Symptoms and Diagnosis
Waxy flexibility is characterized by a decreased response to stimuli and a tendency for a person's body parts to remain in the same position for extended periods. This can be tested by a healthcare professional who moves the person's limb and then lets go. If the limb stays in the position it was left in, this is considered a positive sign of waxy flexibility.
Diagnosis of waxy flexibility is typically made through clinical observation and patient history. It is often associated with other symptoms of catatonia, such as mutism, stupor, and negativism.
Related Terms
- Catatonia: A state of unresponsiveness in a psychiatric patient characterized by immobility and mutism.
- Schizophrenia: A mental disorder characterized by abnormal behavior, strange speech, and a decreased ability to understand reality.
- Negativism: Resistance to attempts at being moved or directed, or doing the opposite of what is asked.
- Stupor: A state of near-unconsciousness or insensibility.
See Also
External links
- Medical encyclopedia article on Waxy flexibility
- Wikipedia's article - Waxy flexibility
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