Resting Tremor: Causes, Symptoms, and Treatments
Resting tremor is a movement disorder characterized by an involuntary, rhythmic shaking of a body part when a person is at rest. It affects a variety of people, ranging from children to the elderly, and is most commonly associated with neurological conditions such as Parkinson’s disease and essential tremor. This article will explore the causes, symptoms, and treatments of resting tremor.
Causes
Resting tremor is most commonly caused by neurological conditions such as Parkinson’s disease and essential tremor. Parkinson’s disease is a progressive disorder of the central nervous system that causes tremor, rigidity, and difficulty in movement. Essential tremor is the most common form of tremor and is typically caused by a genetic mutation. Other causes of resting tremor include multiple sclerosis, stroke, brain tumor, and cerebral palsy. In rare cases, certain medications can also cause resting tremor.
Symptoms
The most common symptom of resting tremor is an involuntary, rhythmic shaking of a body part when the person is at rest. This tremor may be present in the hands, arms, legs, head, or face. It can be mild or severe and may be associated with stiffness or difficulty in movement. Other symptoms may include a sense of unsteadiness, a feeling of weakness, and difficulty speaking.
Treatments
Treatment for resting tremor varies depending on the underlying cause. For example, medications such as levodopa may be used to treat the symptoms of Parkinson’s disease. Botox injections may be used to treat essential tremor. Surgery may be recommended in some cases. Other treatments may include physical therapy, lifestyle changes, and relaxation techniques.
Conclusion
Resting tremor is a movement disorder characterized by an involuntary, rhythmic shaking of a body part when a person is at rest. It is most commonly caused by neurological conditions such as Parkinson’s disease and essential tremor, but can also be caused by other conditions such as multiple sclerosis, stroke, brain tumor, and cerebral palsy. The most common symptom of resting tremor is an involuntary, rhythmic shaking of a body part when the person is at rest. Treatment varies depending on the underlying cause, but may include medications, Botox injections, surgery, physical therapy, lifestyle changes, and relaxation techniques.
References
American Academy of Neurology (AAN). (2020). Movement disorders. Retrieved from https://www.aan.com/patients/disorders-and-conditions/movement-disorders/
Kang, U. J., & Jankovic, J. (2006). Essential tremor: Diagnosis and treatment. Movement Disorders, 21(9), 1342–1350. https://doi.org/10.1002/mds.20937
National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke (NINDS). (2020). Parkinson’s disease information page. Retrieved from https://www.ninds.nih.gov/Disorders/All-Disorders/Parkinsons-Disease-Information-Page