Symptom 10: Akinesia: The Paralyzing Grip of NMS
Lastly, we meet akinesia, or the loss of voluntary muscle movement. Akinesia represents the extreme end of the NMS symptom spectrum, transforming the body into a state of enforced stillness.
But what makes akinesia truly fascinating is its insidious nature. Unlike the sudden onset of hyperthermia or the visible spasms of dystonia, akinesia creeps in gradually, the body’s movements becoming slower and more constrained until motion becomes a monumental task.
At the heart of akinesia lies dopamine, a critical facilitator of smooth, coordinated movements. As NMS progresses, dopamine production plummets, and the fluidity of movement gives way to a paralyzing stillness.
Interestingly, akinesia isn’t just a loss of movement. It can also lead to physical discomfort, given the rigid postures it enforces. Furthermore, it can drastically affect one’s ability to perform daily tasks, compromising independence and quality of life.(10)
