Immobility

Overview

Immobility means being unable to move or having limited movement due to reasons like physical injury, stroke, spinal cord issues, arthritis, or prolonged bed rest. It can cause muscle weakness, joint stiffness, and reduced cardiovascular fitness. Managing immobility involves physical therapy, using aids, medication, and lifestyle changes to improve mobility and prevent complications. Early treatment is vital to reduce the complications of immobility and quality of life.

Types of Immobility

Here are five common types of immobility in people:

• Neurological Immobility

Caused by nerve-related conditions like strokes, spinal cord injuries, multiple sclerosis, or Parkinson’s disease, leading to paralysis or weakness.

• Orthopedic Immobility

Due to bone or joint issues such as fractures, joint problems, or severe arthritis, making movement painful or difficult.

• Bedridden Immobility

Long-term immobility from being confined to a bed, often after surgery, during illness, or with age-related frailty.

• Functional Immobility

Difficulty with daily activities due to physical limitations is often seen in older adults or people with disabilities.

• Tonic Immobility

A natural response to fear or threat, causing temporary paralysis or immobility is observed in animals and sometimes in humans during extreme stress.

Causes

Immobility causes in people can vary and include:

• Serious injuries like fractures or spinal cord damage can limit movement.

• Conditions such as stroke, spinal cord issues, multiple sclerosis, or Parkinson’s disease can cause paralysis or weakness.

• Arthritis, severe back pain, or joint injuries can lead to stiffness and reduced movement.

• Diseases like advanced cancer, heart failure, COPD, or muscular dystrophy can cause weakness and limited mobility.

• After certain surgeries, temporary immobility may occur due to pain or recovery needs.

• Extended periods of inactivity due to illness or a sedentary lifestyle can weaken muscles and limit mobility.

• Natural changes in bones, joints, and muscles with age can contribute to immobility.

• Severe depression or anxiety can affect motivation and physical activity.

How Do Patients with Immobility Get Adversely Affected?

Patients with immobility can suffer from muscle atrophy, pressure ulcers, and decreased cardiovascular health. Additionally, they may experience respiratory complications, joint stiffness, and a decline in overall mental well-being.

Symptoms

Immobility symptoms are based on the cause and duration of limited movement. Common effects of immobility include:

• Loss of muscle mass and strength, especially in legs, arms, and core muscles.
• Joints become less flexible and painful to move.
• Difficulty moving joints fully.
• Aches and discomfort in muscles and joints.
• Fluid buildup, often in legs and feet.
• Risk of pressure ulcers (bedsores) with redness, inflammation, or open wounds.
• Shallow breaths and increased pneumonia risk.
• Reduced circulation, raising clot risk.
• Frustration, helplessness, or anxiety due to mobility limits.
• Struggles with daily tasks like walking or bathing.

Besides, older patients with immobility are more likely to lose some of their capacity to perform activities of daily living.

Diagnosis

Immobility diagnosis involves these steps:

• Medical History
• Physical Exam
• Neurological test
• X-rays, CT scans, or MRIs 
• Blood Tests
• Nerve Tests
• Functional Assessment

Treatment

Treating immobility involves different approaches to improve movement and address the root cause. Here’s how immobility treatment is done:

Physical Therapy

• Work with a physical therapist who designs exercises to strengthen muscles, improve flexibility, and reduce pain.

Learn Different Techniques

• Learn techniques and use tools to make daily activities easier despite mobility challenges.

Medications

• Take prescribed medications to manage pain, reduce inflammation, or treat underlying health issues.

Utilize Safe Movement Tools

• Use tools like canes, walkers, or wheelchairs for safe movement and independence.

Go for Surgery

• If needed, surgery can fix structural problems causing immobility, like joint issues or nerve compression.

Stay Hydrated

• Eat well and drink enough water to support healing and muscle strength.

Use Different Procedures

• Manage chronic pain with medications, therapy, or special procedures.

Avoid Medical Problems

• Avoid problems like bedsores, blood clots, or respiratory issues by changing positions regularly and taking care of your skin.

Deal with Feelings

• Get help dealing with feelings of frustration or sadness caused by mobility challenges.

Change Your Routine

• Modify your home and daily routines to fit your mobility needs, like adding handrails or ramps.

Working with a primary care physician to create a personalized plan can improve mobility and quality of life despite immobility challenges.

Does Immobility Affect Muscle Mass?

Yes, immobility leads to muscle atrophy, resulting in a significant loss of muscle mass and strength over time. Regular movement and physical activity are essential to maintain muscle health.

How Does Immobility Cause Pressure Ulcers?

Immobility causes pressure ulcers by sustaining pressure on certain body areas, restricting blood flow, and leading to tissue damage. Regular repositioning and proper skin care are crucial to prevent these ulcers.

When To See A Doctor

If you can’t move suddenly, have ongoing pain or stiffness in your muscles or joints, or struggle with daily tasks due to immobility, visit your physician right away. Getting help early can find out why and stop problems from getting worse.

Disclaimer

This information is intended for educational purposes only and should not be considered a substitute for professional medical advice. If you have concerns about immobility or any other medical condition, please see a doctor for an accurate diagnosis and personalized treatment suggestions.