Akinesia

Akinesia is a medical term that refers to the inability to start and/or stop movements. It often occurs in neurological disorders such as Parkinson's disease.

People with akinesia, for example, experience difficulty taking the first step while walking; it feels as if their feet are stuck to the ground. This phenomenon is also called 'freezing'. The reverse is also possible. Then stopping a movement once it has started is difficult.

Causes of akinesia

The main cause of akinesia is a deficiency of the substance dopamine in the brain. Dopamine is a neurotransmitter that is essential for smooth movement. In Parkinson's disease, the dopamine-producing cells in the brain gradually die, leading to symptoms such as akinesia.

Consequences of akinesia

Akinesia significantly affects daily life. In addition to problems with starting and/or stopping movements, other symptoms can also occur, such as:

• Hypokinesia: reduced spontaneous movements, which can lead to a shuffling gait with reduced arm swing, a flat facial expression, or a monotonous voice.
• Bradykinesia: slowed execution of movements, making tasks such as getting dressed or writing more difficult and time-consuming.

Disorders in which akinesia occurs

Akinesia is particularly characteristic of Parkinson's disease. But it also occurs in other neurological disorders, such as:

• Parkinsonism: a group of disorders that show symptoms similar to Parkinson's disease.
• Progressive supranuclear palsy (PSP): a rare brain disorder that leads to problems with movement, balance, and eye movements.

Treatment of akinesia

The treatment of akinesia is mainly aimed at increasing the dopamine level in the brain. This is possible with medication that supplements the dopamine deficiency. A neurologist often prescribes a drug such as levodopa.

In addition, it is important to work on muscle strength and mobility under the guidance of a specialized physical therapist. They also teach you strategies to prevent 'freezing'. An occupational therapist then focuses on improving daily activities and advises on the use of assistive devices.

Tips for coping with akinesia

In addition to professional treatments, the following tips can help:

• Move consciously: focus fully on each step and perform movements deliberately.
• Use visual 'cues': placing lines on the floor can help to step over or follow them and thus initiate movement.
• Use rhythm and music: walking to the rhythm of music or a metronome makes starting movements easier.