Tremor and Parkinson’s
What is Tremor?
Tremor is often one of the first motor symptoms of Parkinson’s Disease, along with akinesia (loss of movement), bradykinesia (slowness of movement), and rigidity. The tremor that occurs due to Parkinson’s disease is unique among other tremors because it is a “resting tremor,” meaning it presents primarily at rest. It is often less noticeable or goes away with movement but returns when the limb (typically a hand or fingers) is held in one position.
Symptoms of Tremor
Between 70-90% of people with Parkinson’s Disease experience tremor at some point in their lives. Tremor appears to be less common in younger people with Parkinson’s. It may affect almost any part of the body but is most common in the fingers, hand, jaw, and feet. There are two common forms of tremor in Parkinson’s: a resting tremor and an action tremor.
A resting tremor occurs when you are still and relaxed. This form of tremor is often described as “pill rolling,” as it may look like you are trying to roll a pill between your thumb and forefinger and continuously roll it around.
An action tremor occurs when you are trying to do something like hold a book or drink from a cup.
While a resting tremor is typically more common than an action tremor, it is important to note that many people with Parkinson’s may experience both– often referred to as a “mixed tremor.” Some people report an internal tremor that is not noticeable to others. This is described as a shaking sensation inside the chest, abdomen, or limbs that cannot be seen.
Managing Tremor – Exercise as a Form of Treatment
Parkinson’s and its symptoms currently can’t be cured, but they can be effectively managed with medications and exercise. The most commonly used medication to control tremor related to Parkinson’s is Levodopa, but it is important to note that treatment plans look different for everyone. Additionally, stress and anxiety can make a tremor worse, so it is important to find ways to relax.
In addition to medication, one of the most effective ways to manage tremor is with lifestyle changes such as routine exercise. Staying active is an essential piece of living with Parkinson’s. Some of these lifestyle improvements include:
Low-impact exercises that do not put too much strain on joints, such as walking, swimming, and Parkinson’s symptom-focused exercise classes
Eating a nutrient-rich, high-fiber diet
Physical therapy exercises that increase your strength, balance, and flexibility
Exercises targeted towards tremors, such as rotating the wrist, shoulder shrugs, bicep curls, and yoga
Try out PFP’s workouts for tremors and hand dexterity!
Resources from PFP!
Power for Parkinson’s offers numerous tools to combat tremors. In addition to our free in-person classes, PFP offers free online exercise classes. Check out our YouTube channel to learn hand exercises to control tremors, combat stiffness and rigidity, and boost your fitness!
References
https://www.parkinson.org/understanding-parkinsons/movement-symptoms/tremor
https://www.apdaparkinson.org/what-is-parkinsons/symptoms/tremor/