Prolonged muscle twitching in the right buttock?
Tonight, I suddenly experienced continuous muscle twitching in my right buttock.
It seems to lessen or stop when I get up and walk around, but it keeps twitching when I sit or lie down.
This has been going on for three hours.
What could this condition be, and should I observe it for a few more days before consulting a neurologist? Additionally, could the numbness in my left ring finger and pinky be a sign of cubital tunnel syndrome?
Wei, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2021/10/26
Dr. Jiang Junyi reply Neurology
Dear Mr.
Wei,
You mentioned experiencing "constant twitching in the muscles of the right buttock," which may suggest peripheral nerve symptoms, such as lumbar nerve inflammation, leading to instability in the affected muscles.
Regarding your inquiry about "numbness in the left ring and little fingers possibly being due to cubital tunnel syndrome," it is important to consider ulnar nerve pathology, commonly associated with ulnar nerve compression.
The compression may occur at the elbow, which you referred to as the cubital tunnel, or it could be at the wrist.
Typically, clinical assessment is sufficient for diagnosis.
If further evaluation is needed, the commonly used tests are nerve conduction studies (NCS) and electromyography (EMG).
Nerve conduction studies measure the speed of electrical impulses through specific nerves; when a nerve is compressed, the conduction velocity slows down.
I recommend consulting with a neurologist for discussion and examination.
Thank you for your inquiry, and feel free to reach out with any further questions!
Wishing you good health and peace,
Dr.
Jiang Junyi, Taoyuan Medical Center
Reply Date: 2021/10/26
More Info
The persistent muscle twitching you are experiencing in your right buttock could be attributed to several factors, and it’s important to understand the underlying mechanisms that may be at play. Muscle twitching, or fasciculation, can occur due to a variety of reasons, including muscle fatigue, stress, dehydration, or even nerve irritation. In your case, the twitching seems to diminish when you move around, which suggests that it may be related to muscle tension or nerve compression that is alleviated by movement.
When you sit or lie down, the pressure on certain nerves or the muscle itself may increase, leading to the twitching sensation. This could be due to a localized issue, such as a muscle strain or overuse, or it could be related to a more systemic issue, such as electrolyte imbalances or neurological conditions. If the twitching persists for several days or is accompanied by other symptoms such as pain, weakness, or changes in sensation, it would be prudent to consult a healthcare professional, preferably a neurologist, for a thorough evaluation.
In terms of your left hand symptoms, the tingling in your ring and little fingers could indeed be indicative of cubital tunnel syndrome, which occurs when the ulnar nerve is compressed at the elbow. This condition can lead to numbness, tingling, and weakness in the hand, particularly affecting the ring and little fingers. If you find that your symptoms worsen with certain activities, such as prolonged elbow flexion or resting your arm on a hard surface, it would be advisable to seek medical attention. A healthcare provider can perform a physical examination and may recommend nerve conduction studies to confirm the diagnosis.
In summary, while the twitching in your right buttock may not be immediately concerning, it is essential to monitor the situation. If it continues or worsens, or if you develop additional symptoms, seeking medical advice is the best course of action. Similarly, for the tingling in your left hand, consulting a healthcare professional can help determine if you have cubital tunnel syndrome or another condition that may require treatment. Early intervention can often lead to better outcomes, so don't hesitate to reach out for help if needed.
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