Essential tremors

  I have been experiencing an essential tremor in my right hand for about 3 years now.  I understand there are some new treatments available  including a surgical procedure involving deep brain stimulation.  Could I benefit from  this technique?  The tremor is particularly disturbing because I am a musician and have been unable to play for the last three years.
  Best regards,
  Joe Kelley
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I question the diagnosis of "essential" tremor.
If your tremor is in both hands and more or less symmetric, and present when you try to use the hands for tasks such as bringing a glass of water to your mouth, then I'd buy it.
But if your tremor is only on one side, it needs better characterization by someone who has seen many tremors and can determine whether this might be a dystonic tremor. Although dystonia usually is seen as development of abnormal postures (of limb, head, etc) or jerking, it can occasionally manifest as tremor. Understanding the fundamental nature of the movement disorder can influence the treatment, which is why it's important. It is, of course, possible that you have essential tremor - I just can't tell in this format.
Some people with refractory disabling tremor do quite well with the new deep brain stimulation surgery. One of my patients with severe essential tremor did well with the surgery. I have referred more of my patients with advanced Parkinson's disease for surgery because there are fewer people who are so affected by essential tremor that they need surgical treatment.
Dystonia usually responds better to BoTox.
I suggest you consult a movement disorders specialist (a type of neurologist). We are available here at 800 223-2273, ask for neurology appointments at 4-5559. I hope this helps. CCF MD mdf.