Parkinson's Disease Tremor Characteristics

Primary Tremor Characteristics

• Resting tremor is the cardinal and most recognizable feature of Parkinson's disease, typically presenting as a 4-6 Hz "pill-rolling" tremor that occurs when the limb is completely supported and relaxed 1, 2, 3, 4
• The American College of Radiology identifies resting tremor alongside bradykinesia and rigidity as the defining motor symptoms of Parkinson's disease 1, 2, 3, 4

Clinical Assessment

• When evaluating suspected Parkinson's tremor, systematically assess rest, posture, and action, and examine for associated signs such as bradykinesia and rigidity 1, 2
• Asymmetric onset with unilateral tremor initially is characteristic of Parkinson's disease 5