Akinesia Treatment in Noida, Delhi Ncr, India

Akinesia Overview

Akinesia is characterized by the inability to initiate or produce observable movements, impacting patients in various ways from slowed responses to complete immobility. Initially mistaken for severe bradykinesia, akinesia is now recognized as distinct, involving difficulties in the rapid generation of movement strength.

Symptoms of Akinesia

Symptoms include difficulty initiating walking, muscle rigidity (especially in legs and neck), facial stiffness resembling a mask, and impaired foot movement. These symptoms can vary among patients, often summarized by the acronym TRAP: Tremor at rest, Rigidity, Akinesia, and Postural instability.

Foetal Akinesia Deformation Sequence (FADS)

FADS presents during fetal development, causing anomalies like facial abnormalities, underdeveloped lungs, joint contractures, and intrauterine growth restriction.

Causes of Akinesia

Causes in adults include Parkinson’s disease (due to dopamine reduction), hormone imbalances (such as severe hypothyroidism), and progressive supranuclear palsy (gradual balance impairment). Genetic factors like mutations in genes DOK7 and RAPSN may also predispose individuals to akinesia.

Diagnosis of Akinesia

Diagnosis involves motor examinations where movement initiation and execution are assessed, typically in the context of conditions like Parkinson’s disease.

Treatment of Akinesia

Treatment options include medications like levodopa-carbidopa to replenish dopamine, MAO-B inhibitors to preserve dopamine levels, and deep brain stimulation (implanting electrodes to stimulate movement centers). Home treatments such as regular exercise and physical therapy are also beneficial.

Complications and Risk Factors

Complications include vision impairments, swallowing difficulties, and mood swings resembling depression. Risk factors include prolonged Parkinson’s disease duration and a history of muscle movement impairments.

Prognosis

Early treatment is crucial to prevent falls and injuries associated with akinesia. Ongoing research in Parkinson’s disease and related conditions continues to improve understanding and treatment outcomes.

Review: Reviewed by Dr. Sonia Lal Gupta, Director – Metro Group of Hospitals, Managing Director – Metro College of Health Sciences and Research, Sr. Consultant – Neurology.