Essential Tremor patients and their family and friends from across the nation will join together to get a first-hand look at the ins and outs of essential tremor, a neurological condition affecting 10 million Americans, through hands-on exhibits and presentations from experts

Lenexa, KS (PRWEB) January 20, 2015

Discover the unknown and explore the many facets of essential tremor (ET) at the International Essential Tremor Foundation's (IETF) free, first-ever ET Expo in Phoenix. On Feb. 21, 2015, ET patients and their family and friends from across the nation will join together to get a first-hand look at the ins and outs of essential tremor. The ET Expo will take place at the Hyatt Regency Phoenix, 122 N. Second St., from 8 a.m. to 2 p.m.

Essential tremor is a neurological condition that affects more than 10 million Americans. ET causes rhythmic shaking of the hands, head, and voice. ET is often misdiagnosed as Parkinson's disease, although eight times more common. ET is characterized by a kinetic (action) tremor, making everyday tasks such as eating, drinking, and writing difficult if not impossible. There is no cure for this life-altering condition.

To build on the current educational seminar series platform, the IETF is expanding to include a more comprehensive approach to meet the needs of patients in all aspects of ET in a new, dynamic setting. The first pilot for the expo format will be tested in Phoenix, AZ. If successful, ET expos will be strategically planned for different regions throughout the year.

"This type of event is new and exciting for us. We hope it sets a precedent for many larger, full-scale events to come in the future for our ET patients all throughout the country," IETF Executive Director Catherine Rice said.

The IETF has teamed-up with world-class neurologists, movement disorders specialists and experts to host a day of discovery and education at this interactive expo. The day will feature presentations by doctors on the diagnostic process, treatment options, current research, coping tips and more. Hear from experts during a panel Q&A discussion following the presentations. Interactive exhibits from IETF partners will allow participants to get a hands-on approach to learning more about their condition and the resources available. Exhibitors include Barrow Neurological Institute, Banner Sun Health Research Institute, Banner Good Samaritan Medical Center, Mayo Clinic, Medtronic Corporation, Active Forever, GE Healthcare, OT & PT device demonstration, LiftLabs Liftware.

"The ET Expo isn't just your ordinary health seminar. This is something that’s never been done before in the ET community. It's destined to have a profound impact on our members while furthering the IETF’s mission," Catherine said.

The ET Expo will take place at the Hyatt Regency Phoenix from 8 a.m. to 2 p.m. This expo is free, but pre-registration is required. No walk-ins will be permitted. Lunch will be provided and choices can be selected at registration. Parking will be validated. Donations welcomed. Register by calling toll-free 888.387.3667 or visit http://www.essentialtremor.org/seminars.

About The International Essential Tremor Foundation

Headquartered in Lenexa, KS, and founded in 1988, the International Essential Tremor Foundation is the leading organization in the world dedicated to those affected by essential tremor. The mission of the IETF is to fund research that will find the cause of essential tremor and lead to better treatments and a cure, increase awareness about ET, and provide educational materials, tools and support to healthcare providers, the public, and those directly affected by ET.

The IETF has distributed more than $750,000 in research grants, to fund 30 promising studies, in the search for the cause of ET. The Foundation has hosted numerous community awareness events across the U.S. to provide those affected with the basic knowledge necessary to become their own advocate when seeking treatment. And, the IETF also provides assistance to a vast network of support groups around the world. To learn more about essential tremor and the IETF mission, visit the IETF website at http://www.essentialtremor.org.

SOURCE: PRWeb