Table 1

Tremor types, based on activation condition

Type of tremorDefinition
Action tremorTremor that occurs during a voluntary contraction of skeletal muscle. This includes isometric, kinetic and postural tremors
Isometric tremorTremor that occurs when a muscle contracts against a rigid, stationary object (eg, while making a fist)
Kinetic tremorTremor that occurs during a voluntary movement (eg, while writing or eating)
Postural tremorTremor that occurs when the body part is held motionless against the force of gravity (eg, while arms are outstretched in front of the body)
Rest tremorTremor that occurs in a body part that is supported against gravity and inactive (eg, while lying down)