Slowness of Movement
One of the distinct features of Parkinson’s disease is the slowness of movement, medically referred to as bradykinesia. This symptom is characterized by a decrease in the speed of performing everyday activities like walking, moving, or changing clothes. People with Parkinson’s disease also experience a decrease in spontaneous movements and find it challenging to perform repetitive movements. Some noticeable signs of bradykinesia include a slow walk with short, shuffling strides, difficulty in tapping fingers, and slow, soft speech. Additionally, tasks that were once ordinary, such as eating, dressing, or brushing teeth, take an excessive amount of time to complete. As the disease progresses, these symptoms become more pronounced and can significantly hinder routine functioning if left untreated.
Postural Changes in Parkinson’s Disease
One of the common manifestations of Parkinson’s disease is a change in posture. Patients with Parkinson’s often experience postural instability, making it difficult for them to maintain an upright position. This is due to the loss of certain reflexes that are necessary for proper posture control. As the disease progresses, patients may find it increasingly challenging to maintain their balance, even with minimal disturbance. A slight jostle or push can cause them to topple backward.
In addition to difficulties with balance, individuals with Parkinson’s disease may also encounter problems with turning, pivoting, and standing upright. These simple movements that most people take for granted can become challenging and require extra effort for those with Parkinson’s. Furthermore, some patients may develop a tendency to sway when they start moving after a period of muscular inactivity.