Conditions & Treatments | Essential Tremor

What Is Essential Tremor?

Essential tremor (ET) is a neurological condition that causes involuntary, rhythmic shaking, most often in the hands. It can also affect the head, voice, and other parts of the body. While ET is not life-threatening, it can impact daily activities such as writing, eating, and speaking. Unlike Parkinson’s disease, essential tremor primarily occurs during movement rather than at rest.

What Are the Symptoms of Essential Tremor?

Essential tremor typically develops gradually and may worsen over time. Common symptoms include:

Tremors in the hands that occur during voluntary movement (such as drinking from a glass or writing).
Head nodding or shaking that is rhythmic and involuntary.
Voice tremors, leading to a shaky or quivering voice.
Worsening symptoms with stress, fatigue, or caffeine intake.

What Causes Essential Tremor?

The exact cause of essential tremor is not fully understood, but it is believed to be linked to abnormal brain activity in the thalamus. Research suggests a genetic component.

Risk factors include:

Family history – Essential tremor is often hereditary, with a strong genetic link.
Age – While ET can occur at any age, it is more common in people over 40.

UR Medicine's Treatments for Essential Tremor

At UR Medicine, our experts provide comprehensive care for individuals with essential tremor, offering advanced diagnostic tools and treatment options tailored to each patient’s needs.

How is Essential Tremor Diagnosed?

There is no specific test for essential tremor, but diagnosis typically involves:

Medical history review
Neurological examination
Performance tests

How Is Essential Tremor Treated?

While essential tremor cannot be cured, various treatment options can help manage symptoms:

Medications to reduce tremor intensity
Lifestyle modifications
Physical and occupational therapy
Assistive devices, such as weighted utensils, to enhance daily function
Deep brain stimulation (DBS)
Focused ultrasound therapy

What Sets Us Apart?

The University of Rochester Medical Center is the only institution in the Rochester and surrounding region able to provide state of the art treatment for neurological conditions considered medically intractable, such as Parkinson’s disease, Essential Tremor, and neuropathic pain conditions.

UR Medicine Neurology is a recognized leader for developing superior clinicians and scientists and has developed a national reputation for excellence in residency training in adult and child neurology and numerous subspecialties. The department is rich with dedicated faculty, an outstanding blend of academic and clinical training, exposure to nationally recognized specialists and a supportive environment provide residents with the opportunity to truly excel in their fields.