What does “bradykinesia” refer to in Parkinson's Disease?

Bradykinesia specifically refers to slowness of movement, which is a hallmark symptom of Parkinson’s Disease. In individuals affected by this condition, the coordination and initiation of movement become impaired, leading to a noticeable delay in their ability to start or complete movements. This can manifest in various daily activities, resulting in a slower walk, difficulty with fine motor tasks, and a general decrease in physical agility.

The term itself breaks down linguistically into "brady," meaning slow, and "kinesia," meaning movement. Understanding this term is crucial for recognizing and communicating the functional limitations that individuals with Parkinson's Disease may experience in their daily lives, highlighting the progression and impact of the disease on motor performance.