What is Rigor Mortis?

Rigor mortis, or “stiffening of death,” is a natural phenomenon that occurs after death. It is one of the most familiar signs of death. Rigor mortis begins within two to four hours after death and can last for up to seventy-two hours. Though its exact cause is still debated, the condition is universal in humans and most animals.

The Process of Rigor Mortis

The process of rigor mortis begins with a relaxation of the muscles called primary flaccidity. This is when the tension in the muscles relaxes and the muscles become limp. As time passes after death, the muscles begin to stiffen and contract as a response to certain chemical changes in the body. This is known as secondary rigidification. As the muscles contract and stiffen, the joints will become locked and the body may appear to be in a stiff, unnatural position.

How Rigor Mortis Affects the Body

As the body stiffens, it can make it more difficult for the muscles to be moved and manipulated. This means that the body will not be able to be prepared and positioned for a viewing at an open-casket funeral, as would be the case in most traditional burials. In cases of embalming, rigor mortis can even cause chemical reactions in the embalming fluids. As a result, the embalming process may need to be delayed until the rigor has passed.

Effects of Rigor Mortis

Rigor mortis can be a useful way to determine the approximate time of death. When combined with other evidence, it can help forensic experts arrive at a more precise time of death. Additionally, rigor mortis can be an indicator of cause of death in certain situations. For example, if a body is found in a stiffened position that doesn’t match the position in which the person was found, this could be an indicator of homicide.

In conclusion, rigor mortis is a universal occurrence after death. It begins within a few hours after death and can last for up to seventy-two hours. The stiffening of the muscles can affect the embalming process and can be useful evidence for forensic experts when determining cause of death.