Types of Physical Tremor

This article lists different types of tremor, including:

1. Essential Tremor (ET)
2. Parkinsonian Tremor
3. Physiological Tremor
4. Dystonic Tremor
5. Cerebellar Tremor
6. Orthostatic Tremor
7. Psychogenic Tremor
8. Enhanced Physiological Tremor
9. Neuropathic Tremor

Essential Tremor (ET):

Essential Tremor often affects the hands but can also involve the head, voice, or other parts of the body. It typically worsens with movement and may be hereditary (nature or nurture?).

Tremors might be more noticeable when performing tasks like writing or holding objects.

Parkinsonian Tremor:

Associated with Parkinson’s disease, this tremor is usually most evident at rest (resting tremor) and lessens with voluntary movement.

Often starts in one hand and may spread to the other side of the body as the disease progresses.

Physiological Tremor:

A normal, fine tremor that everyone has to some degree, not visible to the naked eye but can be detected with sensitive equipment.

Exacerbated by factors like stress, fatigue, caffeine, or certain medications, but not generally a sign of disease unless excessively pronounced.

Dystonic Tremor

Occurs in conjunction with dystonia, a neurological movement disorder where muscles contract involuntarily, causing twisting and repetitive movements or abnormal postures.

The tremor might be irregular and is associated with sustained or intermittent muscle contractions.

Cerebellar Tremor

Caused by damage to the cerebellum, which controls coordination and balance.

Typically occurs during voluntary movement towards a target (intention tremor) and can affect speech, eye movements, and limb coordination.

Orthostatic Tremor

A rapid tremor of the legs that occurs upon standing and is relieved by sitting or walking.

Individuals might feel unsteady or as if they are rocking when standing still.

Psychogenic Tremor

Tremors that have a psychological origin rather than a neurological one. They can be variable in nature, changing in response to stress, attention, or distraction.

Might not follow typical neurological patterns and could have sudden onset or remission.

Enhanced Physiological Tremor

An exaggeration of physiological tremor, often due to physical or emotional stress, fatigue, or the use of certain medications like stimulants or withdrawal from substances.

More noticeable than regular physiological tremor but still within the realm of what’s considered a temporary condition rather than a disease.

Neuropathic Tremor

Associated with peripheral nerve damage or neuropathy.

Can occur in the hands and feet, often in response to nerve compression or metabolic conditions like diabetes.