In Parkinson’s disease (PD), the messages sent from your brain to your muscles are not processed properly. As a result, your muscles can become stiff (rigid), and your movement may be slow and clumsy (known as bradykinesia). Your muscles, particularly those in your neck, shoulders, and calves, can become sore or cramp up. Rigidity affects up to 90% of people with PD and can be experienced on both sides of the body or just one (Davis Phinney Foundation, 2020).

Stiffness can stop muscles from stretching and relaxing, causing rigid, inflexible muscles, pain, and cramps in both muscles and joints. When it happens in the facial muscles, it can cause a symptom known as hypomimia or the ‘PD Mask,’ which results in reduced facial expressions. Additionally, stiff facial muscles can interfere with chewing and swallowing (Parkinson’s UK, 2023). Muscles can also become rigid in the chest, which may result in problems with breathing and chest infections (Parkinson’s UK).

Stiffness and slowness of movement may cause you to walk with short, shuffling steps, and you may find it takes you longer to perform tasks. You may even experience a lack of coordination. Rigidity can affect balance because of the impact it has on muscles in the arms – when they cannot swing effectively during walking, balance is impaired, and the risk of falls increases (Davis Phinney Foundation, 2020). Untreated, this stiffness can affect your mobility and safety.

There are two different types of rigidity commonly experienced in Parkinson’s disease: lead pipe and cogwheel. The first results in limbs feeling stuck in one position, with limited range of motion. The second results in limbs moving in small, jerky motions, as if the muscles are ‘catching’ as they move (Davis Phinney Foundation, 2020).

Fortunately, drug treatment can be very effective, especially when combined with regular stretching and exercise. Here are a few suggestions for enhancing your flexibility and movement:

  • Follow your doctor’s recommendations for drug treatment and exercise.
  • If you presently exercise, continue any exercise you currently enjoy but be mindful of your limits. Lighter intensity exercises, such as stretching and yoga, are particularly beneficial for improving muscle flexibility (Parkinson’s UK, 2023). If you experience stiff and painful muscles, exercise may be the last thing on your mind, but it is important to continue to move your body because a lack of movement can create further stiffness, perpetuating a negative feedback loop (Davis Phinney Foundation, 2020).
  • If you do not yet exercise, start an exercise program slowly to build your stamina and self-confidence. A regular walking routine is excellent for PD.
  • Take a few moments to stretch and stand tall while doing everyday tasks, such as getting the mail or loading the dishwasher. Coupling a brief stretch with daily tasks is one way to cement the habit of moving your muscles. You can also set aside just five minutes at the start of each day to do stretches.
  • Adapt activities to your current ability. For example, try doubles tennis rather than singles, or cross-country skiing rather than downhill. If golf is your game, continue to play even if you can’t complete a full round.
  • Seek the advice of a physiotherapist who can assess your safety, mobility, and stamina. A therapist can recommend exercise and stretching programs that can be done at home or in the community.
  • Massage and local applications of heat or ice can provide temporary relief for stiff and sore muscles. Additionally, a warm bath with Epsom salts can soothe sore muscles (Davis Phinney Foundation, 2020).
  • Consider incorporating breathing exercises and relaxation techniques to your daily routine (Parkinson’s UK, 2023).

 

Sources

Davis Phinney Foundation (2020). Rigidity and Parkinson’s: What It Is and How to Treat It. https://davisphinneyfoundation.org/rigidity-and-parkinsons-what-it-is-and-how-to-treat-it

Pacific Parkinson’s Research Centre, University of British Columbia, Vancouver

Parkinson’s UK (2023). Rigidity. https://www.parkinsons.org.uk/information-and-support/rigidity 


Last updated: January 2, 2024