From the Guidelines
Action tremors can be classified into several types, including postural tremor, kinetic tremor, intention tremor, task-specific tremor, and isometric tremor, with essential tremor being the most common type, typically affecting the hands during activities. The main types of action tremors are:
- Postural tremor: occurs when maintaining a position against gravity, like holding arms outstretched
- Kinetic tremor: appears during voluntary movement
- Intention tremor: worsens as the limb approaches a target
- Task-specific tremor: occurs during specific activities like writing or speaking
- Isometric tremor: appears when muscles contract against stationary objects These tremors result from oscillations in neural pathways connecting the cerebellum, thalamus, and motor cortex, and diagnosis typically involves clinical examination and sometimes electromyography, with treatment depending on the underlying cause and may include medications like beta-blockers, such as propranolol, which has been used to treat essential tremor for more than 40 years 1. Other beta-blockers, for example, metoprolol, may also be effective depending on the case 1.
The classification of action tremors is crucial for determining the appropriate treatment, and essential tremor is a common type that can be treated with beta-blockers, highlighting the importance of accurate diagnosis and individualized treatment plans. The use of beta-blockers, such as propranolol, has been well-established in the treatment of essential tremor, and other beta-blockers may also be effective in certain cases 1.
In clinical practice, it is essential to consider the different types of action tremors and their underlying causes to provide effective treatment and improve patient outcomes. The treatment of action tremors, including essential tremor, may involve medications like beta-blockers, anticonvulsants, or botulinum toxin injections, and the choice of treatment depends on the underlying cause and individual patient factors.
From the Research
Types of Action Tremors
- Action tremors are tremors that occur during voluntary movement, and can be further classified into several subtypes, including: + Kinetic tremor: a tremor that occurs during movement 2, 3, 4 + Intentional tremor: a tremor that occurs during intentional movement, such as reaching for an object 2, 4 + Dystonic tremor: an action tremor of the affected region of the body, often associated with dystonia 2, 3, 5 + Orthostatic tremor: a high-frequency tremor that mainly manifests in the legs and gives rise to postural instability 2, 3, 5
- These types of tremors can be caused by various underlying conditions, including essential tremor, Parkinson's disease, cerebellar tremor, and dystonia 2, 3, 4, 5, 6
- Diagnosis and treatment of action tremors depend on the underlying condition and clinical manifestation, and may include medications such as beta blockers, primidone, and benzodiazepines, as well as surgical options like deep brain stimulation 2, 3, 5, 6