Essential tremor is a neurological disorder characterized by involuntary shaking of certain parts of the body, most commonly the hands. This condition can significantly impact a person's quality of life, affecting daily activities such as writing, eating, and dressing. While medications are often used to manage essential tremor, they may not provide sufficient relief for all patients. That's where deep brain stimulation (DBS) comes into play.

DBS is an FDA-approved, surgical procedure that involves implanting electrodes into specific areas of the brain. These electrodes deliver mild electrical stimulation to regulate abnormal brain signals associated with movement disorders. DBS is commonly used to treat conditions like Parkinson's disease, dystonia, and essential tremor.

1. Electrode placement: During surgery, the neurosurgeon will implant one or more small wires (leads) inside the brain. These leads are connected to a neurostimulator implanted under the collarbone.
2. Electrical stimulation: The neurostimulator delivers continuous pulses of electric current through the leads and into the brain. The goal is to interrupt irregular signals causing tremors and other movement symptoms.
3. Programming and adjustment: After implantation, the neurostimulator is programmed to deliver an electrical signal. Fine-tuning the settings may take several visits to achieve optimal results while minimizing side effects.

Here’s a short video that explains how DBS works:

1. Tremor control: DBS significantly reduces tremor, especially in the hands and legs. Multiple studies have demonstrated improvements in hand tremor up to approximately 90%, leading to better functional ability and performance of daily activities¹.
2. Quality of life improvement: DBS can greatly enhance the quality of life for people with essential tremor. Although it is not a cure, it regulates signals in the brain that cause tremors, providing relief from symptoms².
3. Non-destructive: Unlike some other treatments, DBS does not destroy brain tissue. It also won’t limit future treatment options.
4. Adjustable: The device used for DBS can be adjusted as needed to optimize tremor control.

In this video, you will hear from a patient whose life has been transformed after getting DBS therapy:

DBS involves a thorough evaluation process, including pre-operative assessments and post-operative follow-up. Candidates should be prepared to commit time to the procedure. It's important to discuss insurance coverage and potential costs with your healthcare provider.

Always consult with a healthcare professional to determine the best treatment approach for your specific condition.

DBS offers hope for essential tremor patients by providing symptom relief and restoring daily functionality. While it's not a cure, it may significantly improve your quality of life.

To find out if DBS is right for you, take a quick assessment today. Afterwards, you will receive your results and if you qualify for treatment, a patient education specialist will be in touch to answer any questions you may have and help you find a DBS specialist near you.