On this page
How it can feel
- Shaking in a hand, arm, leg or head that will not settle on command.
- Tremor that changes speed or jumps between body parts.
- Quiet moments then sudden violent shaking.
- Worse when you try hard to hold still or when people are watching.
Day to day
- Writing, eating, using phones and tools can become messy or tiring.
- Social self-consciousness is common and exhausting in its own right.
- Some people avoid cafés or public transport for fear of visible shaking.
Understanding this FND symptom
Functional tremor is a movement programme problem in the nervous system. It is not the same as choosing to shake. It can start after injury, pain, illness or high load — or with no neat story.
What can help
- Accurate diagnosis and a clear explanation.
- Specialist physiotherapy approaches for functional movement symptoms.
- Reducing “fight the tremor” tension that can amplify it for some people.
- Task adaptation, rest breaks and supportive seating or grips.
- Addressing sleep, pain and overload that raise the volume.
This is information, not a treatment plan. Personal care decisions belong with you and your clinicians.
FAQs
Why does my tremor stop sometimes when I am distracted?
Attention and nervous-system state can change functional movement. That variability is a recognised pattern — not proof you invent the tremor.
Is functional tremor the same as Parkinson’s?
No. Different mechanisms and assessments. Only a clinician can diagnose.
About this guide & further reading
Written and published by FND Connect. This is general information for people living with FND and those supporting them. It does not diagnose a symptom or replace advice from your clinician.
- Neurosymptoms: Functional tremor
- North Bristol NHS Trust: functional neurological symptoms
- Neurosymptoms: when new or different symptoms need reassessment
External resources provide further reading; their inclusion does not mean their authors have reviewed or endorsed this FND Connect guide. Page updated 3 October 2026.
Take this to your next conversation
Note what happens, how it affects your day and what you want to ask. An appointment pack can help you organise that conversation.