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MS ExplainedTremor and ataxia

Disruption to the coordination of movements is called ataxia. In its mildest forms this can be apparent as clumsiness. If damage to the cerebellum is more severe, the disruption to coordination can lead to shaking or tremor.

Tremor in MS usually does not happen in completely relaxed limbs but is triggered by a mismatching of messages when trying to perform a function. This makes tremor in MS distinct from that found in Parkinson's Disease, where shaking occurs in muscles at rest.

There are two main types of tremor that can affect people with MS. Intention tremor occurs when someone tries to carry out a task. For instance, an arm can start to shake as it moves to pick up a teacup or the telephone, with the shaking worsening as the hand approaches the object. Postural tremor occurs when the body has been held in a particular position for a period of time. It usually affects the head, neck and trunk.

More information from the MS Trust
Tremor - A to Z of MS
Ataxia - A to Z of MS
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