3. Rigidity: The Unseen Impediment in PSP
Rigidity or stiffness, particularly in the neck and upper body, is another symptom commonly observed in individuals with PSP. This stiffness is due to an increase in muscle tone, resulting in a resistance to passive movement. The condition is a byproduct of the neurodegenerative process that underlies PSP, leading to a characteristic posture and a distinctive gait.
The degree of rigidity experienced can vary widely among patients. For some, it’s a mild stiffness that merely inconveniences daily activities.
For others, however, the stiffness can be so severe that it severely hampers mobility. As the disease progresses, the rigidity can become more widespread, eventually involving the limbs as well.
In addition to physical discomfort, rigidity can also cause a great deal of psychological distress. It further restricts the mobility of PSP patients, forcing them to rely on aids or caregivers for everyday tasks. It’s easy to see how such a dependence could lead to feelings of helplessness and frustration. (3)
