Stiffness due to paraquat exposure

As one of the early signs of Parkinson's, stiffness of the limbs and trunk is caused by the impairment of the neurons controlling movement. These nerve cells lose the ability to produce an essential chemical called dopamine, thus inflicting:

  • heaviness
  • aches and pains
  • issues writing or buttoning clothes
  • a fixed facial expression
  • stiffness when waking up in the morning
  • troubles turning over in bed or getting out of chairs
  • difficulties swinging arms
  • flexed posture bent at the elbows, knees, and hips

There is no cure at the moment for this debilitating condition. The individual symptoms are typically unpredictable, and their intensity may vary.

Stiffness of the limbs and trunk can slowly worsen over time, severely impacting the quality of life for those suffering from Parkinson's disease. Patients may further experience difficulties walking, talking, or completing standard tasks.

Stiffness of the limbs and trunk and paraquat exposure

Parkinson's disease is a motor system disorder characterized by:

  • slowness of movement
  • shaking
  • stiffness
  • loss of balance

The progression of Parkinson's varies from patient to patient. Stiffness of the limbs and trunk is one of the primary motor symptoms of Parkinson's disease, although not all patients experience it. Stiffness of the limbs and trunk can become uncomfortable when trying to perform regular activities, which can further trigger behavioral changes, such as:

  • trouble sleeping
  • depression
  • fatigue
  • memory difficulties

Stiffness of the limbs and trunk in Parkinson's disease is experienced beyond what would result from the typical aging process or arthritis. One of the leading causes is exposure to paraquat.

This herbicide is very popular throughout the U.S. due to its effectiveness in controlling weeds and vegetation. However, it is so toxic that ingesting just one sip can prove fatal. Aside from this immediate effect, there are other harmful consequences inflicted by the chemical that develop over time, one of them being Parkinson's disease.

Anyone who works directly with the herbicide must be trained and licensed before mixing, filling, or applying paraquat. Regrettably, despite all preventive measures taken to reduce exposure, this category of agricultural workers is the most affected and at risk of developing Parkinson's disease.

The manufacturers of paraquat products knew about the negative consequences of exposure but failed to provide proper warnings to the general public, thus making them liable. You may be entitled to compensation if you suffer from stiffness of the limbs and trunk associated with a Parkinson's diagnosis following paraquat exposure.

Quality assistance for people with Parkinson's disease as a result of paraquat exposure

The skillful team at Atraxia Law has over 35 years of experience in evaluating personal injury and product liability claims and will thoroughly analyze every aspect of your case to determine if you are qualified to file a paraquat exposure claim.

While the evaluation process is tedious and complex, your involvement will be minimal, as we will handle the majority of documents on your behalf.

Feel free to contact us right away, fill out our free case evaluation form, and we will further discuss your legal options and any questions you might have.