Which is a characteristic motor feature of Parkinson's disease?

Which is a characteristic motor feature of Parkinson's disease?

• A. Rapid movements
• B. Abrupt changes in direction
• C. Tremors
• D. Hypertonicity

Answer: (C)

Tremors are a hallmark characteristic of Parkinson's disease, often presenting as rhythmic shaking, particularly in the hands and fingers, when the muscles are at rest. This resting tremor is one of the most recognizable symptoms and is primarily due to the degeneration of dopaminergic neurons in the basal ganglia, which significantly affects motor control. In Parkinson's disease, tremors typically become more noticeable when the patient is relaxed and can decrease with voluntary movement. Understanding the significance of tremors in the context of Parkinson's provides insight into the underlying pathophysiology of the disorder and the impact it has on the motor system. Other features of Parkinson's disease, such as bradykinesia (slowness of movement) and rigidity, often accompany tremors, but tremors themselves are distinctly characteristic and serve as a key diagnostic criterion.

Tremors are a hallmark characteristic of Parkinson's disease, often presenting as rhythmic shaking, particularly in the hands and fingers, when the muscles are at rest. This resting tremor is one of the most recognizable symptoms and is primarily due to the degeneration of dopaminergic neurons in the basal ganglia, which significantly affects motor control.

In Parkinson's disease, tremors typically become more noticeable when the patient is relaxed and can decrease with voluntary movement. Understanding the significance of tremors in the context of Parkinson's provides insight into the underlying pathophysiology of the disorder and the impact it has on the motor system. Other features of Parkinson's disease, such as bradykinesia (slowness of movement) and rigidity, often accompany tremors, but tremors themselves are distinctly characteristic and serve as a key diagnostic criterion.