Simple daily tasks like writing or tying your shoes can become very frustrating when you have essential tremor. Although the origin of this nervous system malfunction is largely unknown, physical therapy and lifestyle modifications can help you regain control over the muscles in your hands and wrists, leading to a better quality of life.
Causes
The exact cause of essential tremor has yet to be determined. The brain's cerebellum, which controls muscle movements, may not work correctly in people with this condition. Essential tremor is most common in people over age 65, and can occur in conjunction with conditions such as Parkinson's disease, dystonia and Charcot-Marie-Tooth disease. Tremors can also be genetic; familiar tremors are a dominant trait, so if one of your parents has one, you may develop it as well.
Treatment
Mild tremors may not require treatment, but severe ones that impact your daily life can be treated in a variety of ways. Beta blockers help some people, while anti-seizure drugs can be used if your tremor doesn't respond to beta blockers. If anxiety worsens your tremor, tranquilizers may help. Botox injections are another option, especially for head and voice tremors. Physical therapy is also used to improve muscle control and coordination.
Weight Training
If your tremor is in the hand or wrist area, you may benefit from wrist-strengthening exercises. One way to strengthen your wrists is to do forearm curls or wrist flips while holding hand weights. The weights do not have to be heavy to have an impact; the goal here is to slowly increase muscle strength and control, not to build bulk. Your doctor or physical therapist is the best source of advice on which exercises to do for your tremor.
Daily Strengthening
In addition to specific exercises that strengthen the wrist, your physical therapist may recommend modifications to your daily activities that will challenge your wrists to get stronger. For example, you could replace lightweight plateware and glassware in your kitchen with heavier pieces or use a weighted pen when you write. Small modifications such as these can add up to increased wrist strength over time. You can also wear wrist weights while exercising or doing other daily activities.
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