Tremors are rhythmic shaking movements of the hands, lower arms, and head.
Essential tremor is the most common tremor in older adults.
Unlike Parkinsonian tremor, for which it is often mistaken by nonmedical people, it is not associated with any disease. Essential tremor is sometimes called benign essential tremor or, if there is a family history of essential tremor, familial tremor. Tremors result from muscle contractions you cannot control. The cause of essential tremor is unknown. It may also involve the lower and upper arms.