Muscle Twitches and Aches: Causes and Solutions

Muscle twitching and soreness?

Hello, doctor.
For the past three to four weeks, I have been experiencing irregular muscle twitching, sometimes in my eyelids, mouth, calves, knees, and hands.
Occasionally, there is soreness.
I visited a clinic, and the doctor suggested that it might be due to poor posture from prolonged smartphone use at home.
I am quite worried that I might have some illness.
I have tried to relax and rest, which seems to help, but after a while, the symptoms return.
I want to observe if there is any muscle weakness, but I tend to get a bit anxious, making it hard to notice.
I can run, walk, tie my hair, shower, draw, and write without any issues.
I usually go to sleep around 2 to 3 AM.
May I ask: 1.
If my muscle twitching is not accompanied by weakness, can I just ignore it? 2.
Could it be related to poor posture or anxiety? 3.
How can I observe if there is any weakness? 4.
Can relaxing and maintaining a regular schedule improve the situation?

Xiao Bo, 10~19 year old female. Ask Date: 2015/07/07

Dr. Gao Chunde reply Neurology

Some benign muscle twitches are related to psychological stress and do not accompany muscle weakness.
It is advisable to maintain a regular daily routine, reduce the intake of stimulants (such as tea or coffee), and spend some fixed time each week outdoors, preferably in nature, as this can lead to improvement.
As for soreness, it is often associated with posture or prolonged use of electronic devices.
It is important to pay attention to not exceeding 30 minutes of continuous use.
The simplest way to address weakness is to notice that everyday movements may become less agile or clumsy, leading to fatigue or trembling with prolonged activity.
This includes fine motor skills such as using chopsticks, writing, fixing hair, dressing, and buttoning, as well as gross motor skills like carrying a backpack, squatting, jumping, and climbing stairs.

Reply Date: 2015/07/07

More Info

Muscle twitches and aches can be concerning, especially when they persist over several weeks. Based on your description, it seems that you are experiencing muscle fasciculations (the medical term for muscle twitches) and some associated discomfort. Let's address your questions one by one and provide some insights into the potential causes and solutions.

1. If my muscle twitches are not accompanied by weakness, can I ignore them?
Generally, if muscle twitches are not accompanied by significant weakness, loss of function, or other alarming symptoms (such as severe pain, changes in sensation, or changes in bowel or bladder control), they are often benign. Many people experience muscle twitches due to stress, fatigue, or overuse, particularly in the context of poor posture or prolonged periods of inactivity. However, it is always wise to monitor your symptoms. If they worsen or new symptoms develop, it would be prudent to seek further medical evaluation.

2. Could poor posture or anxiety be contributing factors?
Yes, both poor posture and anxiety can contribute to muscle twitches and discomfort. Prolonged periods of poor posture, especially while using devices like smartphones, can lead to muscle strain and tension in various muscle groups. This tension can manifest as twitching. Additionally, anxiety can lead to muscle tension and hyperactivity of the nervous system, which may also result in twitching. Practicing good posture and incorporating regular breaks to stretch and move can help alleviate some of these issues.

3. How can I observe if there is weakness?
To assess for muscle weakness, you can perform simple functional tests. For example, try to hold your arms out to the side for 30 seconds or perform a squat. If you notice difficulty in maintaining these positions or if you feel that your muscles are giving way, this could indicate weakness. Additionally, pay attention to any changes in your ability to perform daily activities, such as lifting objects, climbing stairs, or performing tasks that require fine motor skills. If you have concerns about muscle weakness, it may be beneficial to consult a healthcare professional for a thorough evaluation.

4. Can relaxation and a normal sleep schedule improve my symptoms?
Absolutely. Stress management techniques, such as mindfulness, meditation, or yoga, can help reduce muscle tension and improve overall well-being. Establishing a regular sleep schedule is also crucial, as adequate rest is essential for muscle recovery and overall health. Aim for 7-9 hours of quality sleep per night, and try to maintain a consistent sleep routine. This can help your body recover and may reduce the frequency of muscle twitches.

In conclusion, while muscle twitches and aches can be distressing, they are often benign, especially in the absence of weakness or other concerning symptoms. Addressing lifestyle factors such as posture, stress, and sleep can significantly improve your symptoms. However, if your symptoms persist or worsen, it is essential to consult a healthcare professional for further evaluation and management. Remember, your health is paramount, and seeking guidance is always a good step when in doubt.

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