Gegenhalten

Gegenhalten is a type of resistance encountered in neurological examination where the patient, due to a neurological disorder, involuntarily resists the movement of an examiner. This phenomenon is also known as paratonic rigidity.

Overview

Gegenhalten is a German word that translates to "counter-hold". In the context of neurology, it refers to a type of resistance that is felt when trying to manipulate the limbs of a patient. This resistance is not due to the patient consciously trying to resist the movement, but rather it is an involuntary response caused by a neurological disorder.

The resistance in Gegenhalten is proportional to the force applied by the examiner, meaning the harder the examiner tries to move the limb, the greater the resistance will be. This is in contrast to lead-pipe rigidity, where the resistance is constant regardless of the force applied.

Causes

Gegenhalten is often seen in patients with frontal lobe disorders, such as frontotemporal dementia and Alzheimer's disease. It can also be seen in other neurological conditions such as Parkinson's disease and catatonia.

Diagnosis

Diagnosis of Gegenhalten is made during a neurological examination. The examiner will try to move the patient's limbs and note any resistance. If the resistance increases with increased force, this is indicative of Gegenhalten.

Treatment

Treatment of Gegenhalten involves treating the underlying neurological disorder. This may involve medication, physical therapy, or in some cases, surgery.

See also

• Neurological examination
• Frontal lobe
• Frontotemporal dementia
• Alzheimer's disease
• Parkinson's disease
• Catatonia

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