Mindblown: a blog about philosophy.

The act of yawning, the involuntary opening of the mouth with respiration, breathing first inward, then outward. Yawning is often caused by suggestion. Repeated yawning is commonly a sign of drowsiness. It can also sometimes be a sign of depression.

Abbreviation of “oculus sinister.” Latin for “left eye.” By contrast, OD stands for “oculus dexter” which is Latin for the right eye.

The left eye (oculus sinister), as opposed to the right eye (oculus dexter).

A support, brace, or splint used to support, align, prevent, or correct the function of movable parts of the body. Shoe inserts are orthotics that are intended to correct an abnormal or irregular walking pattern, by altering slightly the angles at which the foot strikes a walking or running surface. Other orthotics include neck braces,…

A temporary lowering of blood pressure, usually related to suddenly standing up. Healthy people may experience orthostatic hypotension if they rise quickly from a seated position, especially after a meal. Orthostatic hypotension occurs most commonly in older people. The change in position causes a temporary reduction in blood flow and therefore a shortage of oxygen to the brain. This…

Having correct vision, producing correct vision, free from optical distortion, or designed to correct distorted vision.

Slang term for an orthopedist.

An orthopedic surgeon, a physician who corrects congenital or functional abnormalities of the bones with surgery, casting, and bracing. Orthopedists also treat injuries to the bones. Sometimes spelled orthopaedist.

The use of devices to move teeth or adjust underlying bone. The ideal age for starting orthodontic treatment is between ages 8 to 14 years while growth is still occurring. An evaluation for orthodontic treatment is recommended by the age of 7. Teeth can be moved by removable appliances or by fixed braces. Crowding of teeth can…

Prefix meaning straight or erect. From the Greek “orthos” that means just that: straight or erect. Examples of terms involving ortho- include orthodontics (straightening the teeth), orthopaedics (straightening the child), orthopnea (breathing easily only in an upright position), orthostatic (an upright posture), etc.