Inside a Patient’s Experience of MRI Guided Tremor Therapy

For more than 40 years, Tom lived with essential tremor that gradually took away his independence, confidence and ability to enjoy simple daily tasks. From struggling to cut food and use a computer to almost giving up singing in choirs, the condition shaped every part of his life. After medications failed and the tremor worsened, Tom discovered the Focused Ultrasound service at Queen Square.

In this episode of Queen Square in Focus, Tom and his wife Jenny share the honest reality of living with essential tremor, their decision to pursue treatment, and the extraordinary moment Tom’s tremor stopped in the treatment room. His story highlights how MRI guided Focused Ultrasound can offer safe, incisionless treatment that restores movement, dignity and independence.

Key Topics Covered:

• Tom’s early symptoms and essential tremor diagnosis
• How tremor affects daily tasks, confidence and social interactions
• Medication challenges and the need for alternative treatment
• Discovering Queen Square’s Focused Ultrasound service
• The assessment process and preparation for treatment
• How MRI guided Focused Ultrasound targets tremor at its source
• Immediate changes during the procedure
• Life after treatment and renewed independence
• The emotional impact on Tom and Jenny

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Key Moments:

00:00 Tom's Essential Tremor Diagnosis and Impact on Daily Life

03:45 Progression of Tom's Tremor and Its Effects

07:37 Exploring Treatment Options

09:45 The Focused Ultrasound Treatment Experience

14:43 Post-Treatment Life Changes

19:01 Tom's Reflection on the Treatment