MaureenNJ
New member
- Joined
- Feb 14, 2021
- Messages
- 5
- Reason
- Learn about ALS
- Diagnosis
- 00/0000
- Country
- US
Hello and thank you in advance for any feedback. (ETA - 52 year old female)
I have spinal stenosis and began having issues with my feet in November. In December I had an EMG/NCV with a pain management doctor who diagnosed peripheral neuropathy in both feet and legs, mononeuropathy, and radiculopathy. I thought that was that. Until my primary care physician said that doctor only tested feet and legs and there could be more going on, see a neurologist.
He mentioned 'more going on' because of the spasms I've been having. Started with some JOLTING a few months back when in bed trying to relax. Wide awake, but I'd jerk. I also have what I can only describe as tightness in my neck. And plenty of other odd sensory things.
These spasms have now progressed to happening numerous times. Waking me at 3am. This morning it happened again, along with my right foot and right thumb jumping all over. They happen when I'm sitting as well, just out of nowhere. And terrible internal tremors upon waking.
Primary gave me 25 mg of Zoloft, which caused my hands to shake. At least that's what I put it down to. I discontinued yesterday after going to 12.5mg, but terrible trembling continues.
I ALSO had a neck xray which revealed more disc disease. Insurance requires PT for a number of weeks before approving an MRI.
I've heard and read a great deal, including people who were told their symptoms were down to stenosis, or carpal tunnel, when it was ultimately ALS. Until my primary terrified me I had not thought of it. NOW I have anxiety - non-stop. Until these symptoms and so many doctors I didn't panic like this.
Neuro is not for another 3 months. I am on a waiting list with another and hoping a cancellation comes up sooner, though I am consumed with fear now.
Is it true that the emg/ncv must be taken in very specific places to diagnose an MND? That if upper it would never show on lower limbs, or even if lower limbs the placement is specific??
Sorry, one other edit. The phys. therapist noted 'mild clonus reflex response' in my right foot, which also sent me down the rabbit hole. He said 'could be a neck disc.' But again, haven't had the MRI yet.
I have spinal stenosis and began having issues with my feet in November. In December I had an EMG/NCV with a pain management doctor who diagnosed peripheral neuropathy in both feet and legs, mononeuropathy, and radiculopathy. I thought that was that. Until my primary care physician said that doctor only tested feet and legs and there could be more going on, see a neurologist.
He mentioned 'more going on' because of the spasms I've been having. Started with some JOLTING a few months back when in bed trying to relax. Wide awake, but I'd jerk. I also have what I can only describe as tightness in my neck. And plenty of other odd sensory things.
These spasms have now progressed to happening numerous times. Waking me at 3am. This morning it happened again, along with my right foot and right thumb jumping all over. They happen when I'm sitting as well, just out of nowhere. And terrible internal tremors upon waking.
Primary gave me 25 mg of Zoloft, which caused my hands to shake. At least that's what I put it down to. I discontinued yesterday after going to 12.5mg, but terrible trembling continues.
I ALSO had a neck xray which revealed more disc disease. Insurance requires PT for a number of weeks before approving an MRI.
I've heard and read a great deal, including people who were told their symptoms were down to stenosis, or carpal tunnel, when it was ultimately ALS. Until my primary terrified me I had not thought of it. NOW I have anxiety - non-stop. Until these symptoms and so many doctors I didn't panic like this.
Neuro is not for another 3 months. I am on a waiting list with another and hoping a cancellation comes up sooner, though I am consumed with fear now.
Is it true that the emg/ncv must be taken in very specific places to diagnose an MND? That if upper it would never show on lower limbs, or even if lower limbs the placement is specific??
Sorry, one other edit. The phys. therapist noted 'mild clonus reflex response' in my right foot, which also sent me down the rabbit hole. He said 'could be a neck disc.' But again, haven't had the MRI yet.