Re: muscle pain and weakness

Posted By CCF Neuro MD on August 24, 1997 at 10:15:15:

In Reply to: muscle pain and weakness posted by Tig on August 22, 1997 at 16:40:21:







: For the past 4 months I have been experiencing pain in joints and
muscles. The pain is extremely intense, but usually relatively brief.
It has migrated around my body affecting different joints at different
times. Initially it was almost exclusively right sided, but recently
it has become bi lateral. The only area that has been consistently
painful is my right hand. This has got to the point where I can only
use it for fairly brief periods. I have had multiple blood tests and
the only thing that shows up on those is a slightly elevated CK level.
In the past month, I have been experiencing weakness in upper arms
and legs. I had undiagnosed hypothyroidism for a long time, but my
TSH is now in the normal range.  I have seen a rheumatologist who is
convinced that the problem is neurological.  I would be grateful for
any ideas about what this might be so that I could start educating
myself.



      =


Hello, Tig,
Muscle pain and weakness is a rather nonspecific symptoms which can be a part of many illnesses.  From neurological stand point, the conditions that may be associated with include muscle problems such as polymyositis (usually not so painful), and polyradiculopathy (usually with sensory complaints such as numbness and tingling).  However, your condition seems to be more focal, which makes carpal tunnel syndrome (CTS) a possibility.  This condition is usually related to overuse of wrist or prolonged position of wrist at extension.  What is atypical of CTS in your case is the spread of weakness to bilateral.  Other possibilities that I can think of would be some systemic conditions that affect electrolytes imbalances such as calcium, potassium, and magnesium.  Having said all these, I think it would be very helpful for you to be evaluated by a neurologist.  This can be done locally, or if you prefer, you are welcome to come to see one of our neuromuscular specialists at Cleveland Clinic.  Please call toll free [phone] ext. 45559 for an appointment at your convenience.  Good Luck.
  This information is provided for general medical educational purpose only.  Please consult your physician for the diagnostic and treatment options of your specific condition.