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A writing device improves writing in primary writing tremor
A J Espay1, S W Hung, T D Sanger
1Department of Medicine, Division of Neurology, The Toronto Western Hospital, University of Toronto, Ontario, Canada.
Neurology
|May 11, 2005
Summary
Primary writing tremor (PWT) significantly improves with a specialized writing device. This accessible therapy shows promise, potentially offering an alternative to medication or neurosurgery for handwriting difficulties.
Area of Science:
- Neurology
- Movement Disorders
- Neurosurgery
Background:
- Primary writing tremor (PWT) is a task-specific condition impacting handwriting.
- Stereotactic functional neurosurgery has shown positive outcomes for PWT.
- Exploring less invasive therapeutic options is crucial for managing PWT.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate the efficacy of a novel writing device as a therapeutic intervention for primary writing tremor.
- To compare the effectiveness of the writing device against established treatments like pharmacotherapy and neurosurgery.
Main Methods:
- A study involving nine patients diagnosed with PWT.
- Blind rating of handwriting and spiral drawing samples collected pre- and post-intervention.
- Assessment of tremor severity and handwriting quality using standardized measures.
Main Results:
- Significant improvements in handwriting and drawing tasks were observed with the use of the writing device.
- Blind raters confirmed the beneficial effects of the device on motor control.
- The writing device demonstrated a measurable positive impact on the functional capabilities of PWT patients.
Conclusions:
- A writing device offers a promising, less invasive therapeutic option for primary writing tremor.
- This modality should be considered prior to pursuing pharmacotherapy or functional neurosurgery.
- Further research into device-assisted therapies for PWT is warranted.
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