Symptom 9: Motor Coordination Issues
Motor coordination issues in MSA arise from the degeneration of the cerebellum and basal ganglia, brain regions critical for smooth, coordinated movement. Symptoms may include tremors, rigidity, and bradykinesia (slow movement), which can dramatically impair a patient’s ability to carry out daily activities.
Tremors, typically seen in Parkinson’s disease, may also present in MSA, appearing as involuntary rhythmic shaking. This can make tasks that require fine motor control, like writing or buttoning a shirt, incredibly challenging. The frustration resulting from these struggles can contribute to emotional distress, further aggravating the condition.
Rigidity, characterized by stiffness and a lack of flexibility in the muscles, is another common symptom. It can affect any part of the body, restricting movement and causing discomfort. Walking may become a laborious task as rigidity can lead to a stooped posture and an abnormal gait, increasing the risk of falls.
Lastly, bradykinesia can further complicate matters for MSA patients. The significant slowing down of physical movements makes even simple tasks time-consuming and exhausting. Over time, it can lead to a significant loss of independence, which can be emotionally challenging for patients. (9)
