Could Shoulder Pain and Leg Twitches Indicate Tetanus Symptoms?

Physical condition

Hello, I had a minor abrasion previously and did not receive a tetanus shot.
Recently, I've been experiencing stiffness and pain in my neck and shoulders, and occasionally, my legs feel like they twitch for a moment but then it goes away.
Currently, I have no other symptoms.
I also have a history of neck and shoulder stiffness and pain, and I have been diagnosed with slight disc narrowing.
Could the stiffness and pain in my neck and shoulders, along with the leg twitching, possibly be symptoms of tetanus? Thank you, doctor.

G, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2022/02/18

Dr. Hong Yuanbin reply Internal Medicine

Hello, the symptoms you mentioned are not indicative of tetanus, so there is no need to worry.
Thank you for your inquiry.

Reply Date: 2022/02/18

More Info

Shoulder pain and leg twitches can be concerning symptoms, especially when you have a history of a minor injury and did not receive a tetanus shot. However, it is important to understand the context of these symptoms in relation to tetanus.

Tetanus is a serious bacterial infection caused by the bacterium *Clostridium tetani*, which is commonly found in soil, dust, and animal feces. The bacteria can enter the body through wounds, particularly deep puncture wounds or cuts. The hallmark symptoms of tetanus include muscle stiffness and spasms, particularly in the jaw (often referred to as "lockjaw"), neck, and abdominal muscles. Other symptoms can include difficulty swallowing, fever, sweating, and elevated blood pressure.

In your case, while shoulder pain and leg twitches could potentially be related to tetanus, they are not classic symptoms of the disease. Shoulder pain and stiffness can be attributed to various musculoskeletal issues, especially given your history of cervical disc narrowing. This condition can lead to referred pain in the shoulders and neck, as well as muscle spasms or twitching in the legs due to nerve irritation or compression.

Leg twitches, or myoclonus, can occur for a variety of reasons, including stress, fatigue, electrolyte imbalances, or even benign fasciculation syndrome. If the twitches are infrequent and not accompanied by other systemic symptoms, they are less likely to be related to tetanus.

Given that you have not experienced any of the more severe symptoms associated with tetanus, it is unlikely that your current symptoms are indicative of this infection. However, if you have any concerns about your injury or if your symptoms worsen or new symptoms develop, it is crucial to seek medical attention. A healthcare provider can assess your symptoms, review your vaccination history, and determine if a tetanus booster is necessary, especially if your last tetanus shot was more than ten years ago.

In summary, while shoulder pain and leg twitches can be concerning, they are not typical symptoms of tetanus. It is more likely that these symptoms are related to your existing musculoskeletal issues. Nonetheless, if you have any doubts or if your condition changes, please consult with a healthcare professional for a thorough evaluation and appropriate management.

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