akinesia
Pronunciation: ay-ki-NEE-zee-ah
Absence or severe reduction of voluntary movement, often seen in Parkinson's disease.
Full Definition
A movement disorder characterized by the inability to initiate voluntary movements or severe reduction in movement amplitude and frequency. Akinesia represents the most severe end of the hypokinetic spectrum and is a cardinal feature of Parkinson's disease and other parkinsonian syndromes. Unlike paralysis, muscle strength remains intact, but patients cannot generate the neural signals necessary for movement initiation. The condition can be global or affect specific body parts. In cognitive neurology contexts, akinesia may accompany frontal lobe dysfunction and can significantly impact neuropsychological testing validity.
Usage
Usage note: Often confused with bradykinesia (slowed movement) or paralysis (loss of muscle function).
In Context
- "The patient's akinesia prevented completion of motor tasks during cognitive assessment." — Neuropsychological evaluation
- "Dopaminergic medications significantly improved the akinesia observed in this Parkinson's patient." — Movement disorder clinic note