Expert: Joseph Alban, MS, L.Ac - 10/20/2008

Question
I have tried all medicatons for orthostatic tremmors with nothing but side
affects and the trenors are getting worse as I am falling backwards.  I have
had this for 20 years now and have been to so many neurologists and the
medications they give me have side affects.  Do you know of something that
would help me?

Answer
Hello Louise,

Thank you for the question.  Your balance must be a challenge for you.  

I would recommend trying to find a tai chi or qi gong class.  Tai chi and qi gong are slow moving exercises, that are believed to boost your body's natural energy, or qi.  Many people have used them for balance disorders for quite a long time, with great success. And recent studies shown that it reduces the number of falls in elderly as well as improves balance for those with poor balance. I am not sure specifically about orthostatic essential tremors, but I believe it could help you.    

Acupuncture could also be an option.  Personally, I've never treated Orthostatic Essential Tremors.  But I have treated other types of dizziness and tremors with acupuncture, such as Parkinsons, Meniere's disease, as well as vertigo to improve balance, sleep, and improve relaxation. In some cases, tremors can also be reduced directly, or indirectly through improving sleep and decreasing stress.  

Acupuncture works by correcting imbalance in your body.  Each person's overall symptoms are weaved together and creates a wholistic picture of what is going on with the patient.  for tremors, it could be a number of different imbalances.  You should visit an acupuncturist in your area to discuss possible treatments. You can find an acupuncturist in your area through acufinder.com or nccaom.org.

Best,
Joe