What Helps Parkinson’s Tremors?

Tremors are often one of the first and most noticeable symptoms of Parkinson’s disease (PD). For many, these involuntary shaking movements can make everyday tasks—like writing, eating, or holding a cup of coffee—challenging and frustrating. While tremors don’t affect every person with Parkinson’s the same way, they are among the most common motor symptoms.

The good news? There are several ways to manage Parkinson’s tremors—through medications, therapies, lifestyle changes, and support programs. Keep reading to learn what works best and how you or your loved one can regain confidence in daily life.

Medications That Reduce Tremors
The first line of treatment for Parkinson’s tremors is typically medication.

• Levodopa/Carbidopa (Sinemet): Considered the most effective treatment for Parkinson’s tremors and other motor symptoms.
• Dopamine agonists (such as pramipexole or ropinirole): Help mimic dopamine in the brain to reduce tremors.
• Anticholinergics: Sometimes prescribed, particularly for younger patients, but less common due to side effects.

Therapies and Non-Drug Treatments
Beyond medications, therapies play a powerful role in managing tremors.

• Occupational therapy: Helps individuals adapt everyday activities and tools, such as weighted utensils and adaptive pens.
• Physical therapy: Improves movement, balance, and coordination.
• Speech therapy: While not directly treating tremors, it addresses other motor symptoms like voice changes.

Lifestyle Strategies That Help
Many people also find tremors easier to manage through daily habits:

• Exercise: Activities like yoga, tai chi, or Parkinson’s-specific fitness classes improve motor control and reduce tremor severity.
• Stress management: Tremors often worsen with anxiety or stress—mindfulness, meditation, or breathing exercises can help.
• Healthy diet and hydration: While not a cure, proper nutrition supports brain and muscle health.

Advanced Options for Severe Tremors
When medications and therapies are no longer enough, doctors may recommend Deep Brain Stimulation (DBS). This surgical treatment uses electrodes implanted in specific brain areas to reduce tremors in many patients significantly.

Why Support Matters
A diagnosis of any form of Parkinson’s can feel overwhelming. But with the right support and resources, individuals can maintain independence, quality of life, and emotional well-being.
For resources, referrals, and support in navigating Parkinson’s and related conditions, contact the Parkinson’s Association of Southwest Florida (PASWFL) at www.paswfl.org or call 239-417-3465.
For over 25 years, PASWFL has provided free, high-quality services and programs to individuals and families touched by Parkinson’s disease in Southwest Florida. Their goal is simple: help people live well with PD, regardless of where they are in their journey.

Each week, PASWFL offers more than 25 free programs and support groups, including:

• Wellness and fitness classes
• Speech exercise classes
• Educational seminars
• Support for care partners
• Support groups

There are no fees to become a member, and PASWFL welcomes anyone touched by PD.

Take the First Step Toward Living Well
If you suspect early Parkinson’s or have been recently diagnosed, you don’t have to face it alone.
👉 Click here to sign up for the PASWFL newsletter
👉 Click here to become a member (it's free!)
To learn more, visit www.paswfl.org and discover the power of support, education, and community.