Differential Diagnosis for Disease with No Arm Swing
- Single Most Likely Diagnosis
- Parkinson's disease: This is the most likely diagnosis, as a decrease or absence of arm swing is a common early sign of Parkinson's disease, due to rigidity and bradykinesia.
- Other Likely Diagnoses
- Stroke or hemiplegia: A stroke can cause weakness or paralysis of one side of the body, leading to decreased arm swing on the affected side.
- Cerebral palsy: This condition can cause spasticity, weakness, or poor coordination, resulting in decreased arm swing.
- Orthopedic conditions (e.g., shoulder arthritis, frozen shoulder): Pain or limited mobility in the shoulder joint can lead to decreased arm swing.
- Do Not Miss Diagnoses
- Multiple system atrophy (MSA): This rare neurodegenerative disorder can present with parkinsonian symptoms, including decreased arm swing, and can be life-threatening if not recognized and managed properly.
- Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS): While less common, ALS can cause progressive weakness and paralysis, including decreased arm swing, and is a critical diagnosis not to miss due to its poor prognosis.
- Rare Diagnoses
- Dystonia: A neurological disorder characterized by involuntary muscle contractions, which can cause abnormal postures and decreased arm swing.
- Huntington's disease: A rare genetic disorder that can cause chorea, rigidity, and bradykinesia, leading to decreased arm swing.
- Progressive supranuclear palsy (PSP): A rare neurodegenerative disorder that can cause parkinsonian symptoms, including decreased arm swing, and is often misdiagnosed as Parkinson's disease.