A Focused Ultrasound Patient Story: Michael (Essential Tremor)

Meet Michael Werner, an FDA regulatory lawyer who suffered from essential tremor for decades. After a successful first focused ultrasound treatment for his dominant hand in May 2024, Michael returned nearly one year later, in April 2025, to undergo a second procedure to treat the other side. In this follow-up story, Michael shares his journey back to the University of Virginia Focused Ultrasound Center and the sense of relief and empowerment he felt experiencing the results again instantaneously. Focused ultrasound was approved by the FDA to treat essential tremor on one side in July 2016, and for staged bilateral treatment in December 2022. Qualified patients may pursue the second side at least nine months after their initial procedure. The patient stories shared are individual experiences and not guaranteed outcomes. The Focused Ultrasound Foundation funds research, fosters collaboration, and raises awareness, but does not treat patients. Please consult your healthcare provider for personalized medical advice. To learn more or to find a treatment center near you, visit fusfoundation.org.