(pathology) A sometimes fatal condition resulting from the formation of nitrogen bubbles in the blood and tissues, because of too rapid decompression, seen especially in deep-sea divers ascending rapidly from a dive. It is characterized by severe pains in the joints and chest, skin irritation, cramps, nausea, and paralysis.

(medicine) During childbirth, a technique in which the abdomen is surrounded by a chamber and has the pressure decreased intermittently, to assist the uterus in its task.

plural of abdominal decompression

Synonym of cupping (the East Asian practise of forming a vacuum underneath a cup that will break the surface capillaries of the skin under the cup, to treat ailments or increase blood flow to the area)

plural of explosive decompression

A room used by divers to gradually readjust to normal air pressure.