Primary Orthostatic Tremor Treatment in India

Diya Joshi, a 58-year-old retired school...

Diya Joshi, a 58-year-old retired school principal, had always been the picture of composure. For the past three years, however, a mysterious and debilitating condition had stolen her confidence. The moment she stood up, a violent, rapid trembling would seize her legs, making her feel as if she were vibrating internally. She described it as 'standing on a running washing machine.' Simple tasks like waiting in a grocery line, browsing at a museum, or even cooking at the counter became impossible feats of endurance. She had begun to isolate herself, terrified of falling in public. After numerous tests ruled out Parkinson's and other common conditions, her neurologist, Dr. Sharma, diagnosed her with Primary Orthostatic Tremor (POT). He explained it was a rare disorder of the central nervous system and recommended a trial of medication, starting with a low dose of clonazepam. Diya was apprehensive about starting a benzodiazepine but was desperate for relief. The treatment experience was a careful balancing act; the medication reduced the intensity of the 'internal tremor' by about 60%, allowing her to stand for 10-15 minutes without severe distress, but it also caused noticeable drowsiness. Through dose adjustments and timing (taking it primarily in the evening and before planned outings), she found a manageable regimen. Post-procedure, Diya is not cured, but she is reclaiming her life. She uses a rollator walker for longer excursions, which provides stability and a seat. She can now enjoy a cup of tea with a friend at a café, a small victory that feels monumental. Emotionally, she moved from a place of fear and embarrassment to one of acceptance and proactive management. She grieves the spontaneity she lost but has found a new community online with other POT patients, transforming her journey from one of isolation to shared resilience.