Rigidity

Rigidity is a term used in medicine to describe an increase in muscle tone, leading to a resistance to passive movement throughout the range of motion. It is one of the primary symptoms of Parkinson's disease, but can also be seen in other neurological disorders.

Types of Rigidity

There are two main types of rigidity: lead-pipe rigidity and cogwheel rigidity.

Lead-pipe Rigidity

Lead-pipe rigidity is a type of rigidity where there is uniform and constant resistance to range of motion, often associated with lesions of the basal ganglia.

Cogwheel Rigidity

Cogwheel rigidity is a type of rigidity where there is a jerky resistance to passive movement as muscles tense and relax. It is thought to result from the combination of rigidity and tremor seen in Parkinson's disease.

Causes

Rigidity is most commonly caused by conditions that affect the nervous system, including:

• Parkinson's disease
• Multiple sclerosis
• Huntington's disease
• Wilson's disease
• Neuroleptic malignant syndrome
• Progressive supranuclear palsy

Diagnosis

The diagnosis of rigidity is usually made through a physical examination by a healthcare provider. They may also use tests such as MRI or CT scan to rule out other conditions.

Treatment

Treatment for rigidity often involves treating the underlying condition. This may include medications, physical therapy, or in some cases, surgery.

See Also

• Spasticity
• Hypertonia
• Hypotonia