Symptom 5. Freezing of Gait: A Distinctive Movement Problem
‘Freezing’ is a unique phenomenon experienced by Parkinson’s patients, often described as the sensation of one’s feet being glued to the ground. While walking, they may suddenly feel as though they’re stuck, unable to take the next step. This is ‘freezing of gait,’ a manifestation of parkinsonism that can be both perplexing and disruptive.
Freezing episodes can strike at any time but are more likely during the initiation of movement, like standing up from a chair or turning corners. Picture this: You’re walking down a hallway, then as you approach to turn the corner, your feet abruptly refuse to move. That’s what a freezing episode feels like.
The peculiarity of gait freezing lies in its inconsistency. A person may walk with a normal stride one moment, then abruptly halt the next, only to resume regular walking shortly after. This unpredictable nature can make it quite challenging to manage.
Visual and sensory cues often aid in overcoming freezing episodes. It’s not unusual to see people with Parkinson’s stepping over lines on the floor, marching to a specific rhythm, or following a laser light projected from a walking cane. These tactics help trick the brain into restarting the movement.
However, it’s worth noting that gait freezing increases the risk of falling, particularly when it happens unexpectedly or in crowded, narrow spaces. Therefore, developing strategies to manage freezing episodes, along with the use of safety aids, is of paramount importance. (5)
