Symptoms Questions

25yr,male,active

Greetings,

Strange symptoms for six weeks: I first noticed diffuculties manipulating keys and change.  This was followed up two weeks later by stiffness and light cramping/soreness in my forearms and wrists (much like an overused muscle). The tendons are the most sore, but muscle mass also.  My biceps have felt this soreness as well in recent weeks and my hands are not still (they will move slightly with each heartbeat, especially when not at rest). I practice aikido and, perhaps tellingly, I have injured my shoulders in the past six weeks and they are somewhat sore still. Due to a test two weeks ago, I could not rest my arms. I have done this before, and have not experienced these symptoms. My neck is stiff also. Yes, I ride a compuer all day(4+hrs/day).

I have no history of disease (or of worrying) but this worry has been interfering with my work. In recent weeks I have had muscle spasms which I am sure are stress induced, and are all over my body.  In the past week my calves have felt lightly cramped also. I have had no perceptable weakness (only discomfort in opening jars etc.), no tiredness, and my body weight has been steady for the past year (6'2"; 180lbs).

While my logical mind says injury my devil says disease:

Are these symptoms consistent with tendonitis or an overuse type injury, particularly the hand shaking?

Is the onset too rapid to be disease?

What should I look for next if disease were to be present?

Is it worth having a neuro exam now (if for nothing other than peace of mind)?

Many thanks,

[CCF-Neuro-M.D.-CS]

I think you should have a neurologic exam and consultation with a neurologist. The symptoms you are describing could be due to muscle problems or nerve problems. I think having an exam to determine if there are any objective chages would be reasonable. Then based on the exam specific testing such as an EMG (muscle and nerve test), MRI of cervical spine, or labs can be done. Good luck.