Orthostatic tremor (shaky legs syndrome).

Nine patients (mean age 73 years: range 62-83 years) are described with a characteristic tremor or instability of the trunk and lower limbs which occurred when standing still, and which was either diminished or abolished by walking. Three had essential tremor of the upper limbs. The duration of the disorder ranged between 4 months and 20 years (mean 5 years). In all cases the condition worsened with time. Eight patients responded to clonazepam (0.5 to 2.0 mg per day) and one to chlordiazepoxide (30 mg per day). Orthostatic tremor is a disabling condition that responds to benzodiazepine treatment and may be more frequent than previously recognised.