Tremors are unintentional, rhythmic movements of a part of the body that occur in a backand-forth pattern.

They are the most common of all involuntary movements and can affect the hands, arms, head, face, voice, trunk and legs. Tremors may occur at any age but are most common in middle-aged and older persons. Several neurological disorders like multiple sclerosis, stroke, brain injury or neurodegenerative diseases that damage brain and nerve cells cause hand tremors. Drug-induced Tremors: Drugs like neuroleptics, metoclopramide and prochlorperazine can cause resting tremors similar to those observed in Parkinsonism. Causes The cause of hand tremors vary from anxiety to lesions in the brain. Tremors are generally caused by improper functioning of the part of brain that controls muscle movement throughout the body or in particular areas such as hands. Hand tremors may occur: At rest During action Tremors that appear at the end of purposeful movements may be due to a problem in the cerebellum.

Types of tremors
Tremors can be classified as rest or action tremors.

Cerebellar tremor: The cerebellum is an important part of the central nervous system responsible for movements and balance. Conditions like stroke, tumor and multiple sclerosis that damage the cerebellum result in intentional tremors. Cerebellar tremor is a slow tremor that occurs at the end of purposeful movement such as trying to press a button or touching a finger to the tip of ones nose. Treatment:
Physical therapy may help to reduce tremor and improve coordination and muscle control for some individuals. A physical therapist will evaluate the individual for tremor positioning, muscle control, muscle strength, and functional skills. Teaching the person to brace the affected limb during the tremor or to hold an affected arm close to the body is sometimes useful in gaining motion control. Coordination and balancing exercises may help some people. Some therapists recommend the use of weights, splints, other adaptive equipment, and special plates and utensils for eating.

Alternative Therapies: Benefit is unconfirmed when using alternative therapies such as acupuncture, hypnosis, massage therapy For people whose tremor worsens with stress, biofeedback or behavioral therapy may be helpful Occupational therapy has been found helpful assistance with adaptive devices such as weighted utensils, plate guards, etc.