How Do I Assess Tremor Using Novel Technology?

Abstract

Transducers are defined as any sensor that converts a physiological signal of tremor into an electrical signal. Evolving technologies have utilized transducers to develop devices for tremor measurement that are more convenient, accurate, and capable of continuous recording. Transducer-based methods provide valuable diagnostic tools for the clinician that can distinguish between different tremor syndromes and differentiate tremor from other hyperkinetic movement disorders. Transducers are also used to objectively quantify and track tremor symptom severity over time and assess clinical response to intervention (e.g., pharmaceutical treatments or DBS). This video highlights the utility of transducer-based methods in characterizing and quantifying tremor and reviews the available technologies for measuring tremor. We provide case examples that demonstrate how different technology-based measures for tremor direct the approach to diagnosis and management of symptoms.