What is the term used to describe the stiffening of muscles and joints after death?

The term "rigor mortis" specifically refers to the physiological process that occurs after death, characterized by the stiffening of the muscles and joints. This phenomenon typically begins a few hours after death, peaking around 12 hours, and gradually dissipates over the next couple of days as the body decomposes. Rigor mortis is a result of biochemical changes in the muscle fibers as ATP (adenosine triphosphate) is depleted, leading to the muscles remaining in a contracted state.

The other terms mentioned may describe similar concepts, but they are not as widely recognized or defined in medical terminology as rigor mortis. For example, "cadaveric rigidity" is less commonly used and may refer to the same condition but not as accurately recognized. "Post-mortem muscle contraction" sounds descriptive but lacks the established clinical terminology associated with the process. "Mortuary stiffness" is not a standard term used in scientific or medical contexts to refer to this specific phenomenon.

Thus, rigor mortis is the most accurate and commonly accepted term used to describe the stiffening of muscles and joints that occurs after death.