bradykinesia

Full Definition

Bradykinesia refers to the abnormal slowness and reduced amplitude of voluntary movements, characteristic of Parkinson's disease and parkinsonian syndromes. In geriatric psychiatry, this motor symptom may occur as a side effect of antipsychotic medications or as part of Lewy body dementia. The condition affects both gross and fine motor skills, impacting activities of daily living and quality of life. Clinical documentation often describes bradykinesia in conjunction with other extrapyramidal symptoms when assessing medication-induced movement disorders in elderly patients.

In Context

• "The patient exhibited marked bradykinesia following initiation of haloperidol therapy." — Psychiatric evaluation
• "Bradykinesia significantly impaired the patient's ability to perform self-care activities." — Occupational therapy assessment