Muscle Twitches: Are They a Sign of ALS?

Q: Muscle Twitches: Are They a Sign of ALS?

Hello： Your symptoms may indicate peripheral nerve issues. <br>The condition you are concerned about, amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS), primarily involves problems with motor neurons. <br>Motor neurons control muscle movement; generally, the motor neurons in the brain are refe

Muscle twitching

Hello Doctor, I have been experiencing muscle twitching recently, especially when lying on my side and pressing on my arm.
My arm tends to twitch more easily, or when I am sitting and using the computer (my desk is a bit high), my calves, knees, and the area around my elbows also twitch.
I would like to know if the muscle twitching associated with amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) occurs in this pattern, only twitching in certain positions? Does my condition sound like the muscle twitching seen in ALS? Thank you, Doctor.

Chen Junpin, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2020/09/09

Dr. Jiang Junyi reply Neurology

Hello: Your symptoms may indicate peripheral nerve issues.
The condition you are concerned about, amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS), primarily involves problems with motor neurons.
Motor neurons control muscle movement; generally, the motor neurons in the brain are referred to as upper motor neurons, while those in the brainstem and spinal cord are called lower motor neurons.
When motor neurons become damaged, our muscles do not receive adequate nutrients and chemicals, which can lead to muscle death.
This is a chronic muscle-wasting disease that may cause muscle atrophy.
If upper motor neurons die, abnormal signal transmission may result in muscle twitching.
However, clinical diagnosis requires methods such as electromyography (EMG) and muscle biopsy, among others.
Wishing you good health, peace, and joy.
Dr.
Jiang from Taoyuan Medical Center cares about you.

Reply Date: 2020/09/09

More Info

Muscle twitches, also known as fasciculations, can be concerning, especially when they occur frequently or in specific positions. However, it is essential to understand that muscle twitches are not exclusively indicative of serious conditions like Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis (ALS).
In your case, you mentioned experiencing muscle twitches primarily when lying on your side with your arm pressed down or while sitting at a computer. This pattern of twitching is not typical of ALS. In ALS, muscle twitching is often accompanied by other symptoms such as muscle weakness, atrophy, and difficulty with coordination or speech. Fasciculations in ALS are usually widespread and not limited to specific positions or postures.
The twitches you are experiencing could be due to several benign factors. For instance, muscle fatigue, stress, anxiety, or even caffeine intake can lead to muscle twitching. When you lie on your side or maintain a certain posture for an extended period, it can compress nerves or restrict blood flow, leading to temporary muscle twitching. Additionally, if you are using a computer at a high desk, the awkward positioning of your arms may contribute to muscle fatigue and twitching.

It's also worth noting that benign fasciculation syndrome (BFS) is a condition characterized by persistent muscle twitching without any associated weakness or atrophy. BFS is considered a benign condition and is often linked to stress, anxiety, or overexertion of muscles.
If you are concerned about the possibility of ALS or any other neurological condition, it is crucial to consult with a healthcare professional. They can perform a thorough evaluation, including a neurological examination, to assess your symptoms and determine if further testing is necessary.
In summary, while muscle twitches can be a symptom of various conditions, including ALS, the specific pattern and context of your symptoms suggest a more benign cause. It is always best to seek professional medical advice to address your concerns and receive appropriate guidance.

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