kinetic tremor
Involuntary rhythmic movements that occur during voluntary motor activity, including postural and intention tremors.
Full Definition
Kinetic tremor is a category of tremor that manifests during voluntary movement and includes both postural tremor (occurring when maintaining a position against gravity) and intention tremor (becoming more pronounced as the limb approaches a target). This contrasts with rest tremor, which occurs when muscles are relaxed. Postural tremor is commonly seen in essential tremor and hyperthyroidism, while intention tremor typically indicates cerebellar dysfunction. Kinetic tremors can significantly impact functional activities and quality of life. The distinction between tremor types is crucial for diagnosis and treatment planning, as different tremor syndromes respond to different therapeutic approaches.
Usage
Usage note: Specify whether tremor is postural, intention, or task-specific within the kinetic category.
In Context
- "The patient exhibited kinetic tremor during finger-to-nose testing, suggesting cerebellar involvement." — Movement disorder evaluation
- "Kinetic tremor was absent at rest but prominent during sustained arm extension." — Neurological examination