What is the FDA (Food and Drug Administration) approved device for treating tremor, specifically Essential Tremor or Parkinsonian Tremor?

From the Research

The FDA has approved several devices for treating tremor, with the most notable being the Cala Trio, a wrist-worn device that delivers electrical stimulation to treat essential tremor. Other FDA-approved options include deep brain stimulation (DBS) systems from companies like Medtronic, Abbott, and Boston Scientific, which involve surgically implanted electrodes that deliver electrical impulses to specific brain regions controlling movement 1. MR-guided focused ultrasound (Exablate Neuro) is another approved option that uses sound waves to create a small lesion in the brain to disrupt tremor signals 2. For patients with Parkinson's disease tremor, the Brio Neurostimulation System provides similar benefits to traditional DBS 3. These devices work by either disrupting abnormal neural circuits responsible for tremor or by providing counter-stimulation to reduce tremor amplitude. The appropriate device depends on tremor type, severity, patient health status, and personal preference, with consultation from a movement disorder specialist being essential for proper selection 4. Some key points to consider when selecting a device include:

• The type and severity of the tremor
• The patient's overall health status
• The potential risks and benefits of each device
• The patient's personal preference and lifestyle
• The need for ongoing monitoring and adjustment of the device 5. It is essential to weigh the potential benefits and risks of each device and to consider the individual patient's needs and circumstances when making a decision. The Cala Trio, for example, is a non-invasive device that is easy to use and has been shown to be effective in reducing tremor symptoms 1. In contrast, DBS systems are more invasive and require surgical implantation, but they can provide more significant and long-lasting benefits for some patients 2. Ultimately, the choice of device will depend on a careful consideration of the patient's individual needs and circumstances, as well as the potential benefits and risks of each device.