Uncontrolled hand movements: 14 potential reasons and remedies
Persistent and severe hand tremors can be a concerning health issue for many individuals, affecting their daily activities and quality of life. This article aims to shed light on the common causes and potential treatment options for such tremors.
Hand tremors, characterized by involuntary, rhythmic muscle contractions that make a body part appear to be shaking or trembling, can be caused by a variety of neurological, metabolic, and other medical conditions.
One of the most common causes is Essential Tremor, a neurological disorder that typically affects both hands during purposeful movements such as eating or writing. It often runs in families and is usually not linked to other serious health issues.
Another significant cause is Parkinson’s Disease, a neurodegenerative disorder characterized by resting tremors that often start in one hand. These tremors occur when the hand is at rest and are accompanied by other symptoms of Parkinson’s.
Nutrient deficiencies, such as vitamin B12, magnesium, and vitamin D deficiencies, can also impair nerve and muscle function, leading to muscle twitching or tremors. Vitamin B12 deficiency can cause nerve damage leading to tremors, while magnesium regulates muscle contractions and nerve signaling, and vitamin D deficiency is linked to neuromuscular weakness that can contribute to tremors.
Rheumatoid Arthritis (RA) can cause shaky hands due to inflammation and swelling. However, if tremors are due to nerve damage or comorbid conditions like hyperthyroidism, treatment differs and requires medical evaluation.
Severe hyperthyroidism can produce fine hand tremors and should be assessed, especially if a patient is on thyroid medication.
Certain medications (steroids, antipsychotics, amphetamines) and alcohol abuse or withdrawal can cause or worsen tremors.
Neurological conditions such as multiple sclerosis, brain injury, stroke, and diseases affecting the brainstem also increase the risk of tremors.
In some cases, lifestyle changes may help reduce hand tremors. These include avoiding vigorous exercise, avoiding excess alcohol consumption, avoiding stimulants such as caffeine and amphetamines, and practicing relaxation techniques such as mindfulness and breathing exercises for those experiencing tremors due to anxiety or panic attacks.
For severe cases where medication and other treatments are ineffective, surgical options like deep brain stimulation (DBS) or radiofrequency ablation may be recommended. DBS involves a doctor placing a small generator under the skin in the upper chest, sending electrical signals to electrodes implanted in the thalamus to help manage involuntary movements. Radiofrequency ablation uses an electric current to heat nerve tissue in order to disrupt its ability to relay signals for several months.
If you experience severe or persistent hand tremors that interfere with your daily activities, it is essential to see a doctor to help determine the cause and appropriate treatment based on clinical evaluation and possibly diagnostic tests like electromyograms or blood work. Consulting a healthcare provider is crucial in managing and potentially alleviating hand tremors.
- Essential Tremor, a common cause of hand tremors, is a neurological disorder that often affects both hands during purposeful movements.
- Parkinson’s Disease, a neurodegenerative disorder, is another significant cause of hand tremors, with resting tremors typically starting in one hand.
- Nutrient deficiencies like vitamin B12, magnesium, and vitamin D deficiencies can impair nerve and muscle function, leading to muscle twitching or tremors.
- Rheumatoid Arthritis can cause shaky hands due to inflammation and swelling, but if tremors are due to nerve damage or comorbid conditions, treatment may require medical evaluation.
- Severe hyperthyroidism can produce fine hand tremors and should be assessed, especially if a patient is on thyroid medication.
- Certain medications (steroids, antipsychotics, amphetamines) and alcohol abuse or withdrawal can cause or worsen tremors.
- Neurological conditions such as multiple sclerosis, brain injury, stroke, and diseases affecting the brainstem increase the risk of tremors, which may require surgical options like deep brain stimulation (DBS) or radiofrequency ablation in severe cases.
