Although a serious sign, it is usually more favorable than decerebrate posture . Decorticate posture may progress to decerebrate posture, or the two may alternate. The posturing may occur on one or both sides of the body.
Conditions associated with decorticate posture require immediate hospital treatment.
Anyone exhibiting an abnormal posture should be examined promptly by the health care provider. In some conditions such as prolonged coma , these behaviors can persist for an extended period of time. The person will likely be hospitalized and in intensive care. After the condition is stabilized, the medical history will be obtained from family members and a physical examination will be performed. Physical examination will include a detailed assessment of the nervous system.