Body jerks

[Christy302]

I am 53 years old, had both of my hips replaced 20 months ago, 6 weeks apart. Following my 2nd surgery when I was transitioning off the narcotics and on to over the counter medication, I started experiencing what I call body jerks, or spasms. They were quite severe, affecting mostly the top half of my body. They would happen when I was laying down. My physical therapist at the time thought it might be caused by my body getting used to not having hte narcotics.He said it usually takes a week or so after stopping the medication for it to go away. The jerking did diminish for awhile, but it has been happening again, every night when I lay down at the end of the day, either to go to bed or lay down on the couch to watch TV. This week my legs have been affected as well. I am not aware, and do not believe, they are happening when I am sleeping. Right before the jerk happens I know one is coming on because I have this very hard to describe uncomfortable (but not painful) sensation where the jerk is about to happen. Tonight, I am sitting at the computer and I feel the uncomfortable sensation in both legs like the body jerk is going to happen but it hasn't quite made it yet. I was laying down for a while tonight before getting back up to use the computer. This is hte first time I have noticed this happening at any time other than when I lay down at night. Sorry this post is so long, I have no idea what this is or what I need to do, if anything. Should I be concerned?


This discussion is related to body spasms/jerking.

[mildredloo]

I have involuntary body movement.It has been going on for a month or so.I do have several problems with my spine spondolathesis  and a compression in my spinal cord at the cervical .I don't know what to do because I have no medical insurance.I did not get medicaid.I  am waiting on disability.2 years now.Most likely  wont get it because I have no doctor any more. Need surgery lots of pain.I have worked full time for 25 years,now I need help and cant get it.I have a young child and am worried about the jerking of my body.Thanks for any input.Jan

[Dr. A. Srivastava]

Hi, Thank you for your question.  These jerks are called tremors and these tremors could be associated with fatigue, stress, anxiety or a form of panic attack. Other possible causes of tremors could be overactive thyroid, Parkinsonism disease, certain medications, alkalosis, and low blood sugar. Sometimes previous injury may cause pinched nerve and may be a reason of tremor but this possibility remains low. Therefore, it is quite essential to thoroughly assess the all possibilities here with the help of a doctor. Hope this helps.

[Craig141]

Hi Christy,

I experienced exactly what you are descibing. I first was told take Magnesium supplements, which did not work. Everybody body chemistry is different, so this might work for you. Try taking a GABA supplement (around 500mg) right before you go to bed. I also take Melotonin and 5HTP. All these are appararently natural and you can find them at any health shop / pharmacy.