Objective and self-perceived lower limb weakness in Parkinson's disease.

ABSTRACT:

Background

Lower limb weakness is a long-recognized symptom in patients with Parkinson's disease (PD), described by James Parkinson in his seminal report on 'paralysis agitans'. However, little is known on the frequency, clinical correlations, and association with objective decrease in muscle strength in such patients.

Objective

The objective of this study was to assess the frequency of objective and perceived lower limb weakness in patients with PD.

Methods

We studied 90 consecutive patients with PD and 52 age-matched controls. We recorded clinical and demographic variables, as well as perceived weakness and allied abnormal lower limb sensations, including 'heavy legs', 'fatigued legs', and 'pain'. Symptoms consistent with restless legs syndrome were not considered.

SUBMITTER: Alonso-Juarez M 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC9647295 | biostudies-literature | 2022

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature