All involuntary movements, including tremor, are worsened by emotional or physical stress, anxiety, fatigue and coincidental illness. Uncontrolled stress can make Parkinson’s tremor very difficult to manage, and it can make Essential Tremor (ET) uncontrollable. Stimulants such as caffeine, coffee, chocolates, recreational drugs, and alcohol withdrawal will worsen tremors. For these reasons an holistic approach to dealing with tremor can be just as effective as being prescribed more medication.
Complementary therapies to promote relaxation and reduction of stress, can be very valuable. Psychological inputs, including cognitive behavioural therapy, relaxation therapies, meditation, neuro-behavioural training and neuro-linguistic programming all have parts to play in the management of some individuals. Likewise, nutritional changes may be necessary.
Many people have discovered and developed strategies that help them to reduce or overcome tremor – their own personal coping strategies. Although these won’t work for everyone, watching some of these video clips on the 'Coping Strategies' CD-Rom may help you discover and develop strategies of your own.
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Branko living with tremor
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throwing ball to stop tremor
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flicking the hands
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bouncing ball and running
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bouncing ball to assist with turning
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holding hands to calm tremor
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reducing tremor by gripping
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juggling apples to control tremor
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twirling a pen to reduce tremor.
