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Real members of MyMSTeam have posted questions and answers that support our community guidelines, and should not be taken as medical advice. Looking for the latest medically reviewed content by doctors and experts? Visit our resource section.

MS HUG

A MyMSTeam Member asked a question 💭
Columbia, TN

Can the hug feel like something sticking you in one side of the muscles in your abdomen? Coming and going? Sometimes in the back muscles.
Most people say squeezing. My other symptom is feeling my bra is ALWAYS too tight or I have something constricting on when I don't. So frustrating. Everyone's experience and symptoms with it seem different but the same diagnosis.

July 5, 2024
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Reactions
A MyMSTeam Member

Hi welcome yep in an instant I’m ripping my clothes off. Can’t breathe pins needles down my arm and back . Pouring with sweat . It make menopause a walk in the park .

July 5, 2024
A MyMSTeam Member

Forever feeling like I am wearing a t-shirt with a collar that's too tight, Bra is forever too tight... I'm not wearing a shirt with a collar that close to my neck, and the bra feeling remains even after I remove it 🙃

Thought I was going crazy lol

July 5, 2024
A MyMSTeam Member

Yes, you explained it perfectly. I get the sensation that I'm wearing a too small bra around my ribs and I also get abdominal spasticity that's unbearable. The only thing I can do is take my muscle relaxer and try to stay away from stressful situations. Sometimes it can last up to a week which I usually call the office and get some steroids to cut it shorter. Good luck!!

July 5, 2024
MyMSTeam

The MS hug is a painful symptom of multiple sclerosis (MS) that feels like a tight band squeezing the chest or ribs. Here are some key points about the MS hug:

Description and Symptoms
- Sensation: Feels like a girdle or tight band around the torso.
- Pain Type: Can be neuropathic (related to nerves), nonneuropathic, or Show Full Answer

The MS hug is a painful symptom of multiple sclerosis (MS) that feels like a tight band squeezing the chest or ribs. Here are some key points about the MS hug:

Description and Symptoms:
- Sensation: Feels like a girdle or tight band around the torso.
- Pain Type: Can be neuropathic (related to nerves), nonneuropathic, or both.
- Muscle Spasms: Involuntary spasms in the small intercostal muscles between the ribs cause the pain.

Causes:
- Nerve Damage: Damage to the myelin sheath interferes with nerve signals, leading to abnormal sensations.
- Triggers: Heat, stress, exertion, flares, relapses, and even tight clothing can trigger the MS hug.

Management and Treatment:
- Rest and Cooling Down: Recommended by neurologists to alleviate symptoms.
- Stress Reduction: Stress management is crucial as stress can worsen the symptoms.
- Yoga and Stretching: Light exercises, yoga, and stretching can help reduce pain and stress.
- Breathing Techniques: Some find relief through meditation and breathing exercises.
- Pain Diary: Keeping a diary of pain symptoms can help in managing and treating triggers.

Support:
- Community: Joining support groups like MyMSTeam can provide emotional support and shared experiences from others living with MS.

Always consult with your neurologist or primary care physician before making any changes to your prescribed MS health care regimen.

July 5, 2024

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