Deep Brain Stimulation (DBS) and MS-Related Tremors

Deep brain stimulation (DBS) effectively reduces tremors in people with multiple sclerosis (MS). However, the treatment may lead to other worsening symptoms and speech problems, according to a review study.

These findings support using DBS for treating this common, disabling symptom of MS. Still, larger studies that used standardized measurements of tremors may help assess the risk-benefit ratio of using DBS on patients with MS.

The review study, “Deep brain stimulation for multiple sclerosis tremor: A systematic review and meta-analysis,” was published in the journal Multiple Sclerosis and Related Disorders.

Approximately 25% to 58% of patients with MS experience tremors. And, the tremors may become severe in 3% to 15% of patients. Tremors occur most commonly in the arms, legs, head, trunk, and vocal cords.

For many MS patients, tremors can be debilitating enough to severely impair their quality of life and are challenging to treat.