What are the best treatments for Essential Tremor?

Best Treatments for Essential Tremor

Essential Tremor (ET) is a neurological disorder characterized by involuntary shaking or trembling of certain parts of the body, most commonly the hands. While the exact cause of essential tremor is unknown, it is believed to be related to abnormal brain activity.

Although essential tremor is not life-threatening, it can significantly impact a person's quality of life, making it difficult to perform everyday tasks such as eating, writing, or even holding objects. Fortunately, there are several treatment options available to manage essential tremor and reduce its impact on daily activities.

1. Medications

Medications are often the first line of treatment for essential tremor. While they may not completely eliminate the tremors, they can help reduce their severity and frequency. The most commonly prescribed medications for essential tremor include:

• Beta-blockers: Medications such as propranolol and primidone are commonly used to manage essential tremor. They work by blocking the effects of adrenaline, which can help reduce tremors.


• Anti-seizure medications: Drugs like gabapentin and topiramate, which are typically used to treat epilepsy, can also be effective in reducing essential tremor.


• Benzodiazepines: Medications like clonazepam can help relax muscles and reduce tremors, but they may cause drowsiness and should be used with caution.

2. Botulinum Toxin Injections

Botulinum toxin injections, commonly known as Botox injections, can be used to treat essential tremor in specific areas of the body, such as the hands or voice box. Botox works by blocking the signals between nerves and muscles, temporarily paralyzing the muscles and reducing tremors. The effects of Botox injections typically last for a few months, and repeat injections may be required to maintain the desired results.

3. Deep Brain Stimulation (DBS)

Deep Brain Stimulation is a surgical procedure that involves implanting electrodes into specific areas of the brain responsible for essential tremor. These electrodes deliver electrical impulses to the targeted areas, effectively disrupting the abnormal brain activity that causes tremors. DBS is usually recommended for individuals with severe essential tremor that does not respond well to medications. While DBS can significantly reduce tremors, it is an invasive procedure and carries some risks.

4. Occupational Therapy

Occupational therapy can be beneficial for individuals with essential tremor, as it focuses on improving their ability to perform daily activities. Occupational therapists can teach techniques and provide adaptive devices to help individuals with essential tremor manage their tremors more effectively. They may also suggest modifications to the individual's environment to minimize the impact of tremors on daily tasks.

5. Lifestyle Modifications

While lifestyle modifications may not directly treat essential tremor, they can help minimize its impact on daily life. Some strategies that may be helpful include:

• Avoiding triggers: Identifying and avoiding triggers such as caffeine, stress, and certain medications that can worsen tremors.


• Relaxation techniques: Practicing relaxation techniques like deep breathing, meditation, or yoga can help reduce stress and tremors.


• Weighted utensils: Using weighted utensils or adaptive devices can provide more stability and control while eating or performing fine motor tasks.


• Speech therapy: For individuals with essential tremor affecting their voice, speech therapy can help improve speech clarity and control.

It is important to note that the effectiveness of treatments may vary from person to person, and a combination of different approaches may be necessary to manage essential tremor effectively. Consulting with a healthcare professional, such as a neurologist, is crucial to determine the most suitable treatment plan based on individual needs and circumstances.