Advanced Neurology, Personalized Care

TREMOR

Tremor: Causes, Symptoms, and Treatment

What Is a Tremor?

A tremor is an involuntary, rhythmic shaking or movement of a body part, most commonly affecting the hands, arms, head, legs, or voice. Tremors can occur on their own or be a symptom of an underlying neurological condition.

At Mir Neurology, we specialize in diagnosing the cause of tremors and providing personalized treatment to help manage symptoms and improve quality of life.

Types of Tremors

Tremors are categorized based on their cause, pattern, and when they occur.

1. Essential Tremor (ET)

The most common movement disorder
Typically affects the hands, head, or voice
Becomes more noticeable with movement (action tremor)
Can worsen over time and may have a genetic link

2. Parkinsonian Tremor

A resting tremor that occurs when muscles are relaxed (e.g., hands shaking while at rest)
Often asymmetrical (affecting one side of the body first)
Common in Parkinson’s disease and accompanied by muscle stiffness and slow movements

3. Cerebellar Tremor

Occurs with intentional movement, such as reaching for an object
Associated with brain injuries, multiple sclerosis, or stroke

4. Dystonic Tremor

Affects people with dystonia, a condition causing involuntary muscle contractions
Tremors may improve when adopting certain postures

5. Physiologic Tremor

A mild, normal tremor that occurs in everyone but may be more noticeable due to:
Stress or anxiety
Fatigue or low blood sugar
Stimulants like caffeine or certain medications

6. Orthostatic Tremor

A rare tremor that occurs in the legs while standing
Causes a sensation of unsteadiness but disappears when sitting or walking

Causes of Tremor

Tremors can result from various neurological and medical conditions, including

Essential tremor (ET) – A common hereditary condition
Parkinson’s disease – A progressive neurodegenerative disorder
Multiple sclerosis (MS) – Affects nerve communication in the brain and spinal cord
Stroke or brain injury – Can damage movement-controlling areas of the brain
Hyperthyroidism – Overactive thyroid can cause hand tremors
Medication side effects – Certain drugs (e.g., stimulants, mood stabilizers) can cause tremors
Alcohol withdrawal – Tremors may appear when withdrawing from alcohol use

Diagnosis & Evaluation at Mir Neurology

At Mir Neurology, we use advanced diagnostic tools to determine the type and cause of tremors.

Comprehensive Testing Includes

Neurological Examination – Evaluates movement, muscle tone, reflexes, and coordination
Tremor Analysis – Assesses tremor frequency, amplitude, and triggers
Blood Tests – Checks for metabolic disorders, thyroid dysfunction, or vitamin deficiencies
Imaging Tests (MRI or CT scans) – Identifies structural brain abnormalities or signs of neurodegenerative disease
Electromyography (EMG) – Measures involuntary muscle activity

Tremor Treatment Options

While some tremors are mild and do not require treatment, others may interfere with daily life and require medical intervention.

1. Medications

Beta-blockers (e.g., Propranolol) – Commonly used for essential tremor
Anti-seizure medications (e.g., Primidone) – Can reduce tremor severity
Dopaminergic drugs (e.g., Levodopa, Carbidopa) – Used for Parkinsonian tremors
Botulinum toxin (Botox) injections – May help with dystonic and voice tremors

2. Physical & Occupational Therapy

Strengthening and coordination exercises to improve motor control
Adaptive devices to assist with daily tasks (e.g., weighted utensils, stabilizing braces)

3. Lifestyle Modifications

Reduce caffeine and stimulants to minimize tremors
Stress management techniques like meditation or deep breathing
Regular exercise to improve motor function and coordination

4. Surgical & Advanced Treatments

Deep Brain Stimulation (DBS) – Implantation of electrodes in the brain to reduce tremor severity
Focused Ultrasound Therapy – A non-invasive treatment option for essential tremor and Parkinson’s tremors

Tremor Care in Hagerstown & Cumberland

At Mir Neurology, our experienced team provides comprehensive evaluation and personalized treatment for tremors of all types. Whether your tremors are mild or severely impact daily life, we are here to help you regain control and confidence.

Strengthening and coordination exercises to improve motor control
Adaptive devices to assist with daily tasks (e.g., weighted utensils, stabilizing braces)

Get Expert Help

If you or a loved one is experiencing memory loss or cognitive decline, early diagnosis is key to effective management. Consult with our neurology specialists for personalized assessment and care plans.

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Our Locations

Main Office - Cumberland, United States

Our main office is located in Cumberland, United States. Our doctors have office hours at additional locations in the Hagerstown area to better serve our patients.