Spasticity?

[ShockedToday]

I've been having what I think is spasticity in my arm for some time.  My right arm just aches like I worked it out no matter what position I put it in.  This is at rest and when it is being used.  The ache is not in the joints, but rather the muscles.  They just feel tight all of the time and nothing is loosening them up.  It is not cramps like charlie horses, at least in my arm.

Last night was just horrible.  No matter how I put my arm it just hurt.  In fact, it was the first night since I've had this problem (over a month now) where I've woken up because of it and cried out that it hurts to my husband.  It is still really tight and achey today and now my right thumb is having severe cramping off and on all day.

I don't know what to do.  My next doctor appt is almost 2 weeks away.  I've tried soaking it, Ben Gay cream, etc.  Any suggestions?  Thanks!  

[jean_619]

I've known several other people that find a beer or 2 to be helpful in relaxing muscles during spasticity.  We don't rely on it, but I know that is one option, as least for me.  I only do that about once a month if that.

[jean_619]

I take Flexeril twice a day.  When it is really bad, though, I take a 3rd one (which my doctor said I should do).  However, when it is bad, I usually also drink a beer -- and honestly that is what works the best.  Flexeril + 1 Beer = Relief.

[ShockedToday]

Sorry, I haven't commented.  I've just been really busy.  I appreciate all your responses and I will make sure to ask the doctor about those medications when I see him.  I'm worried about loosing full function of my arm.

Thank you!

[rachy1]

Have you tried baclofen hun? A high dose of this worked for my spasticity in leg along woth diazepam .. worth a try ?

[uk2]

The only thing for me that works is diazapam (muscle relaxer) i have just had nearly 2 weeks of this all over my body but they have finaly gone after ending in a tight band around my ribs which i can still feel but rest and the drugs are all that helps i've uped my magnesium and started on quinine again too. i get them in bouts my body aches afterwards for days and at the time the tiny moment of the effected muscle in spasms feels like i am moving a ton weight, very odd. i feel for you.

sam

[PastorDan]

I have to agree with mae1; a muscle relaxer seems in order, but you don't want to wait two weeks, obviously.  If you're not among those for whom heat is a catalyst for worsening symptoms, you might consider some kind of gentle warmth, such as a hot water bottle or a heating pad.  A pain reliever might help, too, if you can tolerate any of those.

[mae1]

sorry your in so much pain... I'm just wondering if your already on any kind of muscle relaxer??
april

[Lulu54]

bump - can anyone give some practical advice to try I have no personal experience with this problem. - Lu