Overview
Intention tremor is a type of involuntary, rhythmic shaking of a body part that occurs during purposeful movement, such as reaching for an object or writing. Unlike resting tremors, intention tremors worsen as the individual approaches the target, affecting precision and coordination.
This condition is commonly associated with cerebellar disorders, multiple sclerosis (MS), stroke, or brain injury. In South Korea, neurology clinics provide diagnostic evaluations, therapy, and treatment options to help patients manage symptoms and maintain quality of life.
Key Facts
🟢 ➤ Intention tremor occurs primarily during voluntary movements, not at rest.
🟢 ➤ Commonly affects the hands, arms, head, or voice.
🟢 ➤ Causes include cerebellar damage, multiple sclerosis, stroke, brain tumors, or traumatic brain injury.
🟢 ➤ Symptoms worsen as the individual reaches a target or performs fine motor tasks.
🟢 ➤ Diagnosis is based on neurological examination, imaging (MRI), and sometimes blood tests.
🟢 ➤ Treatments include medications, physical and occupational therapy, assistive devices, and in some cases, surgical interventions.
What is Intention Tremor?
Intention tremor is a neurological disorder characterized by tremors triggered by purposeful movement:
➤ The tremor amplitude increases as the limb approaches its target, making precise tasks challenging.
➤ It is caused by lesions or dysfunction in the cerebellum, the brain region responsible for coordination and balance.
➤ Intention tremors may occur unilaterally (one side) or bilaterally (both sides), depending on the underlying cause.
➤ They are distinct from resting tremors seen in Parkinson’s disease, which occur when the muscles are relaxed.
Symptoms Related to Intention Tremor
Symptoms vary in severity but commonly include:
🟢 ➤ Shaking or trembling of the hands, arms, or legs during voluntary movement.
🟢 ➤ Difficulty with fine motor tasks such as writing, buttoning clothes, or using utensils.
🟢 ➤ Worsening tremor as the hand approaches a target (e.g., holding a cup or touching a finger to the nose).
🟢 ➤ Unsteady gait or balance issues in some cases.
🟢 ➤ Associated symptoms depending on the underlying condition, such as fatigue, weakness, or spasticity.
Causes / Possible Causes
Intention tremor occurs due to damage or dysfunction in the cerebellum or its connections:
Neurological Disorders
➤ Multiple sclerosis (MS): demyelination in the central nervous system affects coordination.
➤ Stroke: cerebellar strokes can lead to tremor and loss of fine motor control.
➤ Traumatic brain injury: damage to cerebellar pathways can trigger tremors.
Tumors or Lesions
➤ Cerebellar tumors or structural brain lesions may cause intention tremor.
Genetic or Degenerative Conditions
➤ Spinocerebellar ataxia and other hereditary cerebellar disorders.
Other Causes
➤ Chronic alcohol abuse or toxins affecting the cerebellum.
➤ Rare metabolic disorders or vitamin deficiencies affecting neurological function.
When Should I See a Doctor?
Consult a healthcare professional if:
🟢 ➤ Tremors interfere with daily activities, work, or self-care.
🟢 ➤ Tremors appear suddenly or worsen rapidly.
🟢 ➤ They are accompanied by weakness, numbness, speech difficulties, or vision changes.
🟢 ➤ There is a history of stroke, MS, or neurological disease.
🟢 ➤ Tremors persist despite lifestyle adjustments or supportive measures.
Early evaluation ensures accurate diagnosis, identification of underlying causes, and timely intervention to prevent progression.
Care and Treatment
Treatment of intention tremor focuses on symptom management, functional improvement, and underlying condition control:
Lifestyle and Supportive Measures
➤ Avoid caffeine or stimulants that may worsen tremor.
➤ Use adaptive devices such as weighted utensils, pens, or wrist supports.
➤ Practice coordination and balance exercises under guidance from a physiotherapist.
Medications
➤ Beta-blockers (e.g., propranolol) may help reduce tremor amplitude.
➤ Anticonvulsants (e.g., primidone) can be effective for some patients.
➤ Benzodiazepines or other neurologic agents may provide relief in select cases.
Physical and Occupational Therapy
➤ Focused exercises to improve coordination, strength, and fine motor control.
➤ Techniques to adapt daily activities, reduce frustration, and maintain independence.
Surgical and Advanced Interventions
➤ Deep brain stimulation (DBS) for severe, disabling tremors unresponsive to medication.
➤ Stereotactic surgery may be considered in select cases.
Advanced Care in Korea
➤ South Korean neurology centers provide state-of-the-art diagnostic imaging, multidisciplinary rehabilitation, and individualized treatment plans.
➤ Patients have access to neurologists, physiotherapists, and occupational therapists to maximize functional recovery.
➤ Innovative therapies such as robot-assisted rehabilitation and DBS are available for severe or refractory cases.
Highlights (Clean Green Arrow Version)
🟢 ➤ Intention tremor is an involuntary shaking during purposeful movement, worsening as the target is approached.
🟢 ➤ Symptoms: tremor during voluntary tasks, difficulty with fine motor skills, unsteady gait, and functional limitations.
🟢 ➤ Causes: cerebellar lesions, multiple sclerosis, stroke, brain injury, tumors, degenerative disorders, or toxins.
🟢 ➤ Seek medical care if tremors interfere with daily life, appear suddenly, or are associated with neurological deficits.
🟢 ➤ Treatments include medications (beta-blockers, anticonvulsants), physical and occupational therapy, adaptive devices, and advanced surgical interventions.
🟢 ➤ South Korea offers advanced neurology care with diagnostic imaging, multidisciplinary rehabilitation, and innovative therapies like DBS for optimal management of intention tremor.
