Do Parkinson’s Tremors Stop When Sleeping?
Parkinson’s tremors are a hallmark symptom of the disease—but what happens when the body is at rest?
Key Takeaways:
- Yes, Parkinson’s tremors typically stop during sleep.
- Tremors are a result of disrupted brain signals involved in voluntary movement, which are less active during sleep.
- Understanding this pattern can help distinguish Parkinsonian tremors from other types of tremors.
- Physical therapy and medication can improve daytime tremor control and sleep quality.
Do Parkinson’s Tremors Stop When You Sleep?
Yes, most people with Parkinson’s disease notice that their tremors stop—or significantly reduce—while sleeping. This is because tremors in Parkinson’s are related to voluntary movement circuitry in the brain. During sleep, especially in deeper stages, this motor system becomes much less active, reducing or stopping the signal misfiring that causes tremors.
Why Do Parkinson’s Tremors Stop When Sleeping?
Parkinson’s tremors result from the brain’s diminished ability to regulate movement due to the loss of dopamine-producing neurons. These tremors are most noticeable:
- When the body is at rest during wakefulness (resting tremors)
- When stress, fatigue, or anxiety is present
However, during sleep, the brain enters a state where most voluntary motor commands are “switched off.” Since the motor loop is less engaged, the faulty signals that cause tremors are quieted. That’s why Parkinson’s tremors usually stop when you sleep.
This effect can also help doctors differentiate Parkinson’s tremors from essential tremor, which often continues during movement and sometimes during sleep.
Are There Exceptions?
Some individuals may still experience slight twitching or movement during lighter sleep stages or REM behavior disorder, which is more common in Parkinson’s patients. However, true resting tremors—the rhythmic, involuntary movements seen while awake—generally cease in deep sleep.
How This Affects Diagnosis & Treatment
The fact that Parkinson’s tremors stop during sleep is a helpful clinical sign for doctors trying to differentiate between types of tremors. It also highlights an important treatment opportunity:
- If a patient sleeps better, they may experience fewer tremors during the day due to reduced fatigue and improved dopamine function.
- Sleep disturbances in Parkinson’s are common and should be addressed as part of a comprehensive treatment plan.
How Physical Therapy Can Help
At Synaptic Rehabilitation, our Parkinson’s physical therapy in Bridgewater, NJ address both motor and non-motor symptoms. This includes:
- Exercise strategies to reduce daytime tremors
- Sleep positioning and mobility training to improve rest
- LSVT BIG & PWR! therapy, proven to help manage movement symptoms
- Partnering with speech and occupational therapists for holistic care
Expert Parkinson’s Therapy in Bridgewater, NJ
Looking for personalized Parkinson’s treatment in New Jersey? Synaptic Rehabilitation offers expert care through LSVT-certified physical, occupational, and speech therapy at our clinic in Bridgewater. We also host a monthly Parkinson’s Support Group and exercise classes designed to help you stay strong, mobile, and independent.
📍 1200 Route 22 East, Suite 4, Bridgewater, NJ
📞 Call 908-801-6425 to get started today.
Steven Cheung, DPT
Steven is the founder and lead physical therapist at SYNAPTIC Rehabilitation. He earned a BS in Exercise Science Applied Kinesiology from Rutgers University in New Brunswick, NJ and his Doctorate degree from American International College in Springfield, MA. Steven specializes in movement disorders such as Parkinson’s disease and many other neurological disorders. Outside of practicing physical therapy Steven enjoys time with his wife, running, and staying active.