Rigidity, stiffness in the muscles

Rigidity

Rigidity is stiffness in the muscles that makes the arms, legs or trunk feel tight and resistant to movement. It is a common feature of Parkinson’s disease, where a limb can feel stiff in every direction.

This matters because stiffness makes turning over, dressing and walking harder, and it can bring aching and poor posture.

Physiotherapy does not remove the underlying condition, and rigidity is usually managed together with a doctor’s medicine. Our physiotherapist uses stretching, gentle rhythmic movement and posture work to keep the body looser and more comfortable. We teach a home routine and show the caregiver how to help, so daily movement stays as free as possible.