Bradykinesia is a symptom characterized by slowness of movement or a general decrease in the speed of voluntary movements. This term comes from the Greek "bradi", which means slow, and "kinesia", which means movement. Bradykinesia is considered one of the main motor symptoms of Parkinson's disease, but it can also be present in other neurological and psychiatric disorders. In this article, we will explore what bradykinesia is, its causes, symptoms, and the disorders that are usually associated with this symptom.
What is bradykinesia?
Bradykinesia is defined as an abnormal slowness in the execution of voluntary movements, which can affect a person's daily activities. People with bradykinesia may experience difficulty starting, maintaining, or finishing movements, as well as a feeling of stiffness or heaviness in the muscles. This symptom can be progressive and worsen over time, which can significantly interfere with the quality of life of those who suffer from it.
Causes of bradykinesia
Bradykinesia is a symptom that It can be associated with various medical conditions. The most common cause of bradykinesia is Parkinson's disease, a neurodegenerative disorder that affects the central nervous system and is characterized by the loss of nerve cells in a region of the brain that controls movement. In Parkinson's disease, bradykinesia is often accompanied by other motor symptoms such as resting tremor, muscle rigidity, and balance problems.
Other causes of bradykinesia may include brain injuries, strokes, brain tumors, diseases degenerative diseases, metabolic disorders, side effects of certain medications, among others. It is important that anyone experiencing symptoms of bradykinesia consult a health care professional for proper evaluation and accurate diagnosis.
Symptoms of bradykinesia
In addition to slowness in movements voluntary movements, bradykinesia can manifest itself in various ways. Some of the symptoms associated with bradykinesia include:
- Difficulty walking or starting to walk.
- Difficulty performing delicate, precise movements, such as buttoning your shirt or writing.
- Reduced facial expression or "facial mask", with decreased facial gestures.
- Difficulty changing from one task to another fluidly.
- Reduction in automatic movements such as swinging the arms when walking.
Disorders associated with bradykinesia
Bradykinesia can be associated with various neurological and psychiatric disorders, either as the main symptom or as part of a set of symptoms. Below are some of the most common disorders in which bradykinesia may be present:
Parkinson's Disease
Parkinson's disease is one of the main causes of bradykinesia. In addition to slow movement, people with Parkinson's may experience resting tremors, muscle stiffness, balance problems, gait disturbances, and other motor symptoms. Bradykinesia in Parkinson's disease is usually progressive and can significantly affect quality of life.
Vascular Parkinsonism Syndrome
Vascular Parkinsonism syndrome is a disorder characterized by presence of parkinsonian symptoms, including bradykinesia, due to brain lesions caused by stroke or vascular disorders. Although it shares symptoms with Parkinson's disease, vascular Parkinsonism has a different progression and prognosis.
Stereotypic movement disorder
Stereotypic movement disorder is a neurodevelopmental disorder in the that repetitive, routine and apparently purposeless movements occur. Some manifestations of this disorder may include bradykinesia and other motor symptoms. This disorder usually manifests itself in childhood and can persist into adulthood if adequate treatment is not received.
Lewy body dementia
Lewy body dementia is a form of dementia which shares characteristics of both Parkinson's disease and Alzheimer's disease. People with Lewy body dementia may experience motor symptoms such as bradykinesia, tremors, muscle rigidity, hallucinations, and fluctuations in consciousness. Bradykinesia in this disorder can affect the performance of daily tasks and quality of life.
Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD)
Although ADHD is mainly associated with symptoms of inattention, hyperactivity and impulsivity, in some cases people with ADHD may present motor symptoms such as bradykinesia. Bradykinesia in ADHD may manifest as difficulty sitting still, moving poorly, or slowness in performing motor tasks.
Schizophrenia
Schizophrenia is a serious psychiatric disorder that affects perception. , the thinking, emotions and behavior of a person. Some people with schizophrenia may have motor symptoms such as bradykinesia, catatonia (immobility), or stereotyped movements. Bradykinesia in schizophrenia can interfere with emotional expression and social interaction.
Treatment of bradykinesia
Treatment of bradykinesia will depend on the underlying cause and the severity of the condition. the symptoms. For Parkinson's disease, treatment usually includes medications that increase dopamine levels in the brain, which helps improve motor symptoms such as bradykinesia. In more advanced cases, deep brain stimulation surgery may be an option to manage bradykinesia and other Parkinson's symptoms.
For other disorders in which bradykinesia is a symptom, treatment may include physical therapy , occupational therapy, medications to control motor symptoms and the combination of different therapeutic approaches. It is essential that treatment be individualized and supervised by a multidisciplinary team of health professionals.
In conclusion, bradykinesia is a symptom that can manifest in a variety of neurological and psychiatric disorders, but is most commonly associated with Parkinson's disease. Early identification of bradykinesia and appropriate medical intervention are key to improving the quality of life of those who suffer from it. If you experience symptoms of bradykinesia or have concerns about your motor health, do not hesitate to consult a specialist to receive an accurate diagnosis and a treatment plan tailored to your needs.