A Comparison of the Accuracy of Objective Physiological Measuring Techniques for Rigidity in Parkinson’s Disease – A Systemic Review

Abstract

Background and Aim: Parkinson’s disease (PD), a common neurodegenerative disorder, often presents with debilitating rigidity. Despite its significance, rigidity assessment is qualitative, subjective and reliant on the examiner’s interpretation. This study aimed at comparing the reliability and applicability of objective methods for rigidity assessment in PD patients. Methods: A systematic search in 4 bibliographic databases. Primary outcome was an objective assessment method of rigidity in PD, where reliability and correlation with UPDRS rigidity were reported. The secondary outcome was applicability of the method in a clinical setting.