What Are the Symptoms of Bradykinesia?

Bradykinesia literally means “slow movement,” but the condition goes beyond just moving slowly. It involves a general slowness of voluntary movement and a noticeable reduction in automatic movements. People with bradykinesia often feel like their body is not responding as quickly as their mind expects.

Here are the key symptoms:

• Slow Movement
  The most obvious symptom is a significant reduction in the speed of motion. This can affect walking, talking, writing, and other daily tasks.
• Difficulty Initiating Movements
  A common and frustrating symptom is “freezing,” or hesitation in starting a movement. For example, someone might struggle to take the first step when walking or have difficulty beginning to stand up from a chair.
• Reduced Facial Expression (Facial Masking)
  Individuals may appear less expressive, with a flat or emotionless face due to decreased movement of facial muscles.
• Shuffling Walk
  Steps become shorter and slower, with the feet barely leaving the ground. Arm swing may also be reduced while walking.
• Soft or Monotonous Speech
  Bradykinesia can affect the vocal cords, leading to quiet or monotone speech that lacks natural variation.
• Reduced Dexterity
  Tasks that require fine motor skills, such as buttoning a shirt or handwriting, may become difficult and slow.
• Fatigue and Muscle Weakness
  Because movements are harder to initiate and maintain, individuals may tire more quickly, further slowing activity.

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Bradykinesia varies in severity and can fluctuate throughout the day, especially in response to medication timing. It's often one of the reasons people with Parkinson’s experience difficulties with daily routines and may need support or assistive devices.

Support Is Available at the Parkinson’s Association of Southwest Florida
If you or a loved one are experiencing symptoms like bradykinesia, you’re not alone—and help is available. For over twenty-five years, the Parkinson’s Association of Southwest Florida (PASWFL) has provided effective programs and services that improve the quality of life, educate, enrich, and empower our Southwest Floridians touched by Parkinson’s and related neurological diseases.

Each week, PASWFL offers more than 25 free programs and support groups for members with PD and their care partners. These include movement classes, education sessions, caregiver support, and community-building opportunities.

There are no fees to become a member. You can join or learn more through their website at www.parkinsonassociationswfl.org
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