Four years ago, Helen Moser noticed her hands would start to shake at random moments.

“It’s just an uncontrollable motion,” Moser described.

Sensing something was wrong, she went to see neurologist Duarte Machado, M.D., a movement disorders specialist.

After ordering a brain scan, the diagnosis was clear: Moser had essential tremor, the most common type of movement disorder.

Although the cause of essential tremor is unknown, it’s believed to be genetic condition. Today Moser manages her tremors with medication.

“Aside from medication, some [other treatments] include surgical options,” Dr. Machado explained. “One of them is gamma knife therapy. Another option is deep brain stimulation.”

Moser has also founded the first essential tremor support group in Connecticut.

“Our group is a place where we can offer support to each other where we can share coping tips that we have,” Moser explained.

In the two-and-a-half years since it was formed, the group has grown to 104 members from 47 towns across the state.

Moser’s hope is to make others aware of the little talked about condition.

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