bradykinesia
Pronunciation: brad-ee-ki-NEE-zee-ah
Slowness of movement commonly seen in Parkinson's disease and other movement disorders, requiring specific therapeutic approaches in rehabilitation.
Full Definition
Bradykinesia refers to the slowness and reduced amplitude of voluntary movements characteristic of Parkinson's disease and related disorders. In rehabilitation settings, this manifests as difficulty initiating movements, reduced speed of repetitive tasks, and progressive decrement in movement amplitude. Therapists must distinguish bradykinesia from weakness or fatigue when developing treatment plans. The condition significantly impacts activities of daily living and requires specialized movement strategies and cueing techniques.
Usage
Usage note: Often misspelled as 'bradykinesia' - ensure correct spelling in clinical documentation.
In Context
- "The patient's bradykinesia significantly impaired her ability to complete dressing tasks within a reasonable timeframe." — Occupational therapy assessment
- "Physical therapy focused on amplitude training to address the bradykinesia affecting his gait pattern." — Treatment planning note