ALS spasms

[Jptjr]

I am 47 male. I related my symptoms to my spine injury. When they say spasms, do they mean jerking of the extremity? My left hand, wrist and shoulders are very spatic. Also i have cramping of my chest, abdomin and left leg down through my foot. Is this similar to hypoparathyroidism. How would you determine the later of the two?

[Jptjr]

Thank you for the response. I was not very detailed because I don't want to read into something that might not be. I am scheduled with a neurologist for ALS Eval in Nov 1. Wishing for the best, but it's getting worse.

[Adult Neurology, M.D.]

Thanks for using the forum. I am happy to address your questions, and my answer will be based on the information you provided here. Please make sure you recognize that this forum is for educational purposes only, and it does not substitute for a formal office visit with a doctor.

Without the ability to examine and obtain a history, I cannot tell you what the exact cause of the symptoms is. However I will try to provide you with some useful information.

You have provided very limited information about your symptoms. I am sorry I will not be able to give you a detailed answer.

It appears you are having spasms and have some history of spine injury. Certainly an injury to the spinal cord around the cervical area can give symptoms of spasticity on the left arm and leg. Occasionally if the injury to the spinal cord is severe, tonic spasms are seen too. However, other reasons should be excluded too

Hypoparathyroidism is an endocrine disorder in which the calcium levels in your body can get deranged and it can also cause muscle weakness or contractions but the pattern of contractions would more likely be generalized not localized to just one side of the body.

I suggest you consult with your primary care physician who can run basic labs and then refer you to a specialist if need be

Thank you for this opportunity to answer your questions, I hope you find the information I have provided useful, good luck.