Final answer:
Cogwheel rigidity is a type of muscle stiffness associated with Parkinson's disease, characterized by a ratcheted resistance to passive movement throughout the range of motion.
Step-by-step explanation:
The rhythmic give in resistance that occurs throughout the range of motion is referred to as cogwheel rigidity. It is a type of muscle stiffness seen in Parkinson's disease where there is an interrupted resistance to passive movement, often resembling ratcheted movements.
Cogwheel rigidity is a clinical sign indicating abnormal tone or tension in muscle and can help in diagnosing certain neurological conditions. The rigidity can be experienced by the clinician when trying to move a limb or joint of an individual with Parkinson's disease.