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Hope for Hand Tremors: Focused Ultrasound
Imagine if your hand shook so much that you couldn't write your name, hold a phone, button your shirt, or drink from a glass. For people with essential tremor or tremor-dominant Parkinson’s disease, everyday tasks can be very difficult. The shaking can also make it tough to go out in public or sleep well at night.
“As a functional neurosurgeon, I have seen firsthand how essential tremor and Parkinson’s-related tremor can strip away a person’s independence, turning simple tasks like drinking a glass of water or writing a note into daily struggles,” said Luyuan (Louie) Li, MD, neurosurgeon, Corewell Health.
That’s why Corewell Health is excited to be the first health system in Michigan to offer focused ultrasound, an FDA-approved treatment for people living with essential tremor or tremor-dominant Parkinson's disease.
Dr. Li and fellow neurosurgeon Hayden Boyce, MD, are leading this treatment at Corewell Health and are eager to help improve the lives of those affected by uncontrollable hand shaking.
How does it work?
The treatment uses MRI and ultrasound waves to target the brain without any cuts or anesthesia, often giving immediate relief from tremors.
Dr. Li completed intensive training for this procedure in 2024 during his fellowship at Oregon Health & Science University in Portland.
"My goal has always been to bring the most advanced and least invasive treatments to patients suffering from movement disorders. This technology changes patients’ lives," he said.
“Typically, a patient will have the one-hour procedure in the MRI scanner, with no incision nor anesthesia, and leave the appointment tremor-free or greatly improved.”
Dr. Li has done the focused ultrasound procedure over 60 times, getting great results.
“I'm very happy to bring this treatment to Corewell Health,” said Dr. Li. “It’s brain surgery without any cuts,” he explained. “Most patients see improvement right away and also have lasting relief.”
Focused ultrasound treatment is now available at Corewell Health Grand Rapids Hospitals – Butterworth Hospital.
During the procedure, the patient will hold out their hand so the doctor can see how much it shakes. They will be able to watch in real time as the shaking gets better until it stops. The patient is awake during the treatment and can also feel the improvement.
“After the procedure, the patients are so relieved to have the tremor get better after they have struggled with it for years” said Dr. Li. “Dr. Boyce and I are excited to provide a new option for people that is so effective and low risk.”
Are you a good candidate for treatment?
This treatment is for people who:
- Are diagnosed with essential tremor or tremor-dominant Parkinson’s disease
- Have hand tremors that make it hard to do daily activities or enjoy life
- Have tried at least two medications without success
- Have no MRI restrictions
- Can lie still for about 90 minutes
