Fetal position
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Fetal position (
positioning of the body of a prenatal fetus as it develops. In this position, the back is curved, the head is bowed, and the limbs are bent and drawn up to the torso. A compact position is typical for fetuses. Many newborn mammals, especially rodents
, remain in a fetal position well after birth.
This type of compact position is used in the medical profession to minimize injury to the neck and chest.
Some people assume a fetal position when sleeping, especially when the body becomes cold.[1] In some cultures bodies have been buried in fetal position.[2]
Sometimes, when a person has suffered extreme
trauma.[citation needed
]
This type of position has been observed in
drug addicts
, who enter the position when experiencing withdrawal. Sufferers of anxiety are also known to assume the same type of position during panic attacks.
Assuming this type of position and playing dead is often recommended as a strategy to end a bear attack.[3]
See also
References
- ^ "What are the best and worst sleeping positions? An expert answers". Hindustan Times.
- ^ Recent Advances in the Archaeology of the Northern Andes. Cotsen Institute of Archaeology Press. 1998. p. 57.
- ISBN 0-941130-82-7