Arm Muscle Pain and Tremors: Possible Neurological Causes - Neurology

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Arm muscle tenderness and tremors?


Hello doctor, I currently have the following symptoms and would like to ask about possible causes:
1.
When I raise both arms, I often feel soreness in my hands.
When holding my phone with one hand, my hand shakes slightly.
My fingers tremble when at rest, and pressing on my arm muscles causes pain.

2.
My lower limb muscles feel strange; sometimes when I walk, one foot kicks the other, but I can still walk normally.

3.
When standing on one foot, I sometimes feel like my center of gravity is shifting.

I had a full health check-up and a whole-body MRI about a month ago, but no issues were found except for a sinus cyst.
The problems with my arm and leg muscles started in the last two weeks, while the issue with my shifting center of gravity has been ongoing for two months without improvement.
I would like to know which specialty I should see next and whether I need to review the MRI in detail.

Mr. Wang, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2023/08/02

Dr. Cai Zongzhang reply Neurology


Hello Mr.
Wang: Based on the symptoms mentioned, it is recommended to visit the neurology outpatient clinic (please bring your MRI results).

Reply Date: 2023/08/02

More Info


Hello! Based on the symptoms you've described, it seems like you're experiencing a combination of muscle pain, tremors, and balance issues. These symptoms can be quite concerning, especially since they have developed over the past few weeks. Let's break down your symptoms and explore potential neurological causes, as well as the next steps you might consider.

1. Muscle Pain and Tremors: The fact that you experience muscle pain when pressing on your arms and that your fingers tremble when at rest could indicate several underlying issues. Tremors can be caused by a variety of factors, including neurological disorders, anxiety, or even medication side effects. Conditions such as essential tremor or Parkinson's disease might present with similar symptoms, but they typically have additional signs that would help in diagnosis. Since you mentioned that these symptoms have only started recently, it might be less likely to be a chronic condition like Parkinson's, but it’s still worth considering.

2. Lower Limb Sensations and Coordination: The feeling of your legs being "off" or the sensation of kicking one foot against the other while walking could suggest issues with proprioception or balance. This could be due to peripheral neuropathy, which affects the nerves outside the brain and spinal cord, or it could be related to central nervous system issues. Given that you have had an MRI that did not reveal any significant abnormalities, it might be beneficial to consider whether there are functional issues at play, such as muscle weakness or coordination problems.

3. Balance Issues: The sensation of your center of gravity shifting when standing on one leg could indicate vestibular dysfunction or issues with your proprioceptive system. This is the system that helps you understand where your body is in space. If you are experiencing this sensation frequently, it might be a good idea to consult a specialist in balance disorders or a neurologist who can assess your vestibular function.


Next Steps:
1. Consult a Neurologist: Given your symptoms, a neurologist would be the most appropriate specialist to consult. They can perform a thorough neurological examination, assess your reflexes, muscle strength, and coordination, and may recommend additional tests such as electromyography (EMG) or nerve conduction studies to evaluate the function of your muscles and nerves.

2. Review MRI Results: It may be helpful to bring your previous MRI results to your appointment with the neurologist. They can provide insight into whether any subtle findings might have been overlooked or if further imaging is necessary.

3. Consider Physical Therapy: If your symptoms are related to muscle weakness or coordination issues, physical therapy could be beneficial. A physical therapist can work with you on exercises to improve strength, balance, and coordination.

4. Monitor Symptoms: Keep a detailed log of your symptoms, including when they occur, their severity, and any potential triggers. This information can be invaluable for your healthcare provider in making a diagnosis.

5. Evaluate Lifestyle Factors: Consider whether any recent changes in your lifestyle, such as increased stress, changes in physical activity, or new medications, could be contributing to your symptoms.
In conclusion, while your symptoms may seem concerning, there are many potential causes, and many of them can be addressed with the right medical guidance. It’s important to follow up with a healthcare provider who can help you navigate these symptoms and determine the best course of action. Wishing you the best of luck in finding answers and relief!

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