BRADYKINESIA

Physicians define Bradykinesia as a neurological condition that appears as an early symptom of Parkinsons Disease. Results in slower, less responsive motor skills. Patients with Bradykinesia will have a difficult time initiating simple movements, such as standing up. They will also present with slower than usual automatic movements such as blinking or moving their arms when walking. Neurologists require a patient present both Bradykinesia and a tremor or stiffness to make a full Parkinsons diagnosis.

Symptoms of Bradykinesia 

The symptoms of bradykinesia include slower than usual motor functions. However, some other symptoms can frequently appear with the condition. These symptoms include:

• shuffling feet when walking

• having difficulty making facial expressions

• muscle reactions may slow to the point that the muscles become immobile, or freeze, for some amount of time

• difficulty with repetitive tasks, such as tapping fingers or clapping hands

• difficulty getting ready for the day (e.g., brushing teeth, buttoning clothes, styling hair)

For those living with Parkinson’s disease, bradykinesia will cause patients to lose their ability to speak clearly. Their voices will soften over time, and they will have a difficult time making their voices clearly understood. 

Treatment For Bradykinesia 

Currently, Scientists do not have a cure for Parkinson’s and its symptoms. However, physicians can manage the symptoms somewhat with medications. 

The most helpful medications for bradykinesia include those that increase dopamine production. Some medications that use dopamine or perform the same function as dopamine to get the same reaction include:

• carbidopa-levodopa

• dopamine agonists

• MAO-B inhibitors

Your doctor may try a number of other medications until you find the right one for you.

Bradykinesia also contributes to the risk of falling in patients who have Parkinson’s disease.