International Essential Tremor Foundation-funded Researchers Prove Resistance Training Benefits Dexterity in Essential Tremor Patients

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A recent International Essential Tremor Foundation funded study shows resistance training to be a viable therapy for individuals with essential tremor (ET). A team of researchers from Griffith University and Bond University identified that a generalized resistance training program for the upper limb is capable of improving manual dexterity in individuals with ET, and to a lesser extent, reduce abduction force tremor.

ET is the most common neurological movement disorder causing tremors in various parts of the body—usually the arms, head and vocal chords. The condition is often characterized by rhythmic, involuntary and uncontrollable shaking of the hands and arms during movement, making daily tasks such as eating, drinking and writing difficult if not impossible. ET patients can exhibit increased postural, kinetic, and intention tremors which often result in a decreased quality of life. At this time there is no cure for essential tremor.

“Given that resistance training (RT) can reduce tremor amplitude and improve upper limb fine motor control in older adults, it is surprising that few studies have explored RT as a therapy for older adults with ET,” said Dr. Justin Keogh, Faculty of Health Sciences and Medicine of Bond University.