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Neurology (Expert Forum)
Hand weakness twitching
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Hand weakness twitching
by Oldaugie, Oct 10, 2006 12:00AM
Here are the symptoms I've been experiencing . I think that the length of time this has been going on, even though the weakness is progressing, means that
ALS is not a possibility.
I'm experiencing significant weakness in my left hand and it has been slowly progressing for over 6 months now. In addition to the weakness, I am unable to
lift my fingers individually and am limited on the range of motion of my thumb. I can fully extend or fully close my fingers by using my other hand or
something inanimate to force them into the position and it does not hurt but I am unable to do it with that hand itself. I have no pain and no loss of
sensation in that hand, no tingling or numbness. I do, however, have fasciculations in my left hand and forearm. Occasionally I have strong muscle spasms in
the left forearm.
In addition over the last couple of months I've noticed that my legs are incredibly stiff when I get up from any chair if I have been sitting for longer than
about 10 minutes. Once I'm moving, the pain/stiffness in my legs goes away.
I have an appointment to see a neurologist in early November. I there something my regular doctor could test for prior to my visit to the neurologist that
might be helpful? Or that might make the visit to the neurologist more productive? What could this be? I think that any nerve impingement would be
accompanied by some pain or change in sensation - am I right about that?
Any thoughts would be appreciated.
thanks:
ALS is not a possibility.
I'm experiencing significant weakness in my left hand and it has been slowly progressing for over 6 months now. In addition to the weakness, I am unable to
lift my fingers individually and am limited on the range of motion of my thumb. I can fully extend or fully close my fingers by using my other hand or
something inanimate to force them into the position and it does not hurt but I am unable to do it with that hand itself. I have no pain and no loss of
sensation in that hand, no tingling or numbness. I do, however, have fasciculations in my left hand and forearm. Occasionally I have strong muscle spasms in
the left forearm.
In addition over the last couple of months I've noticed that my legs are incredibly stiff when I get up from any chair if I have been sitting for longer than
about 10 minutes. Once I'm moving, the pain/stiffness in my legs goes away.
I have an appointment to see a neurologist in early November. I there something my regular doctor could test for prior to my visit to the neurologist that
might be helpful? Or that might make the visit to the neurologist more productive? What could this be? I think that any nerve impingement would be
accompanied by some pain or change in sensation - am I right about that?
Any thoughts would be appreciated.
thanks:
Doctor's Answer
by CCF-Neuro-M.D.-SH, Oct 20, 2006 12:00AM
First of all, keep in mind that I am unable to diagnose you because I am unable to examine you, this forum is for educational purposes.
The symptoms you provide are concerning for possible ALS. It does generally start in 1 limb with progressive motor weakness and atrophy. That being said, there are multiple other reasons for motor weakness in the arm (many that are treatable) that should be investigated. I would start with an MRI of the Brain and Cervical spine with contrast, to evaluate for any structural lesion/stroke that may be contributing. I would then suggest an EMG study to evaluate for any signs of peripheral nerve damage or changes consistent with ALS.
I hope this has been helpful.
The symptoms you provide are concerning for possible ALS. It does generally start in 1 limb with progressive motor weakness and atrophy. That being said, there are multiple other reasons for motor weakness in the arm (many that are treatable) that should be investigated. I would start with an MRI of the Brain and Cervical spine with contrast, to evaluate for any structural lesion/stroke that may be contributing. I would then suggest an EMG study to evaluate for any signs of peripheral nerve damage or changes consistent with ALS.
I hope this has been helpful.
1) Sorry for the extra line breaks in the original posting.
2) I'm a 50yo female
I really started to worry when it became cronic and the fatigue set in. My MRI was normal and I didn't have anything show up in emg or other nerve tests. I insisted on having a lyme test. (Thanks to Hikerunner on the site) My doctor didn't want to do one, but he finally agreed.
I'm positive. I've never had a tick byte or had other symptoms of lyme but if your neurologist hasn't a clue and tells you that anxiety is your problem get a lyme test. I feel sooooo much better knowing that I have lyme and not ALS or MS.
Just stay positive.