How can you reduce or lessen the intensity and pain from MS hug and muscle spasms at night?
Muscle spasms and the MS hug can be particularly challenging at night, but there are several approaches that may help reduce their intensity and pain.
Medication Options:
Your doctor might recommend
- Muscle relaxants like Show Full Answer
How can you reduce or lessen the intensity and pain from MS hug and muscle spasms at night?
Muscle spasms and the MS hug can be particularly challenging at night, but there are several approaches that may help reduce their intensity and pain.
Medication Options:
Your doctor might recommend:
- Muscle relaxants like baclofen, tizanidine, or diazepam for spasms
- Anticonvulsants or certain antidepressants for MS hug caused by dysesthesia
- Anti-inflammatory painkillers
- Steroids if symptoms are part of an MS flare
Home Remedies to Try:
For better sleep positioning:
- Use a supportive mattress with plenty of pillows
- Support your neck and back to reduce strain
- Avoid tight pajamas
- Keep your bedroom at a comfortable temperature
For immediate relief during spasms:
- Try gentle stretching in bed - pull your knees to your chest and let one knee fall to the opposite side
- Flex your feet and point your toes
- Get up and walk it off if needed
Temperature Therapy:
Some people find relief with ice packs (wrapped in a towel) on affected areas, while others prefer heat. Try both to see what works for you, but avoid heat if it's a known MS trigger. Additional Strategies:
Pressure techniques:
- Apply gentle pressure with your palm to painful areas
- Wrap affected areas with an elastic bandage
- Try weighted blankets or even placing weight on spasming legs (a MyMSTeam member mentioned their dog helps!)
- Wear multiple layers of socks to create counterpressure
Relaxation and movement:
- Practice deep breathing and meditation
- Try gentle yoga or stretching adapted to your ability level
- Consider acupuncture (though more research is needed)
Lifestyle Adjustments:
- Check your potassium levels and consider eating a banana before bed
- Some people find reducing sugar intake helps
- Exercise regularly to increase flexibility and muscle tone, but check with your healthcare provider first
Managing fatigue is crucial since it can trigger spasticity. If sleep disturbances continue, talk with your neurologist about additional options like melatonin or other sleep aids.
Remember, what works varies from person to person - one MyMSTeam member found ice helpful while another prefers heat. Don't hesitate to experiment to find what brings you relief.
March 12
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