How Do You Spell CARPOPEDAL CONTRACTION?

1. Carpopedal contraction refers to a medical condition characterized by the involuntary tightening or spasm of the muscles in the hands and feet, resulting in a distinctive posture resembling a "claw-like" appearance. The term is composed of two components: "carpo" referring to the wrist or hand, and "pedal" pertaining to the foot or lower leg.

   This condition is commonly associated with hypocalcemia, a condition characterized by abnormally low levels of calcium in the blood. Hypocalcemia can be caused by various factors such as vitamin D deficiency, kidney dysfunction, or certain medications. When calcium levels are low, the body tries to compensate by increasing the excitability of nerve cells, leading to muscle spasms and contractions.

   Carpopedal contraction is often accompanied by other symptoms including numbness or tingling sensations in the hands, feet, or lips, muscle cramps, and twitching. In severe cases, it can progress to more generalized muscle spasms and even seizures if left untreated.

   Treatment for carpopedal contraction primarily focuses on correcting the underlying cause, such as replenishing calcium levels through oral or intravenous supplementation. Additionally, treating the root cause of hypocalcemia is crucial in preventing recurring episodes. In some instances, addressing the underlying condition might require other interventions like hormone therapy, improving kidney function, or managing drug-induced side effects.

   Overall, carpopedal contraction is a symptom that signifies an imbalance in calcium levels, and timely diagnosis and treatment are crucial to alleviate symptoms and prevent further complications.

2. Carpopedal spasm.

   A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.

Common Misspellings for CARPOPEDAL CONTRACTION

The term "carpopedal contraction" is derived from Greek and Latin roots.

The word "carpo-" is derived from the Greek word "karpos" meaning "wrist". It is commonly used in scientific and medical terminology to refer to the wrist or carpal bones.

The second part of the term, "pedal", is derived from the Latin word "pes" meaning "foot". It is used to refer to the foot or pedal extremities.

"Contraction" refers to the shortening or tightening of a muscle.

Therefore, "carpopedal contraction" describes the involuntary spasm or contraction of muscles in the wrists and feet, often associated with specific medical conditions such as tetany or hypocalcemia.

Plural form of CARPOPEDAL CONTRACTION is CARPOPEDAL CONTRACTIONS