Icyveins

Thank you. Good luck to you.

There are many reasons for atrophy, if, in fact, what you are seeing is actually atrophy. In ALS, a muscle might atrophy because it has been paralyzed, limp and unused, for many weeks or months. So, yes, the muscle must be weak and unable to move for a long time, before atrophy shows up.

Although a babinski sign and hoffman reflex help the neurologist diagnosis you, they are not always seen in ALS, and they can point to other neurological conditions, too. In fact, some healthy people have these reactions all the time, normally. Also, some people with ALS are never found to have either reflex.

Your age is a big deal. If you had ALS, it would be a world record. You already saw a neurologist who said you were fine. Trust the doctors. They're really smart and experienced and can tell if someone is sick or not.