Is hand joint swelling MS-related? The short answer is: it can be, but indirectly.
MS doesn't directly cause joint inflammation, but it can lead to joint symptoms through a chain reaction of nerve and muscle changes. Here's how MS can indirectly contribute to hand joint swelling:
- Muscle spasms can affect the muscles Show Full Answer
Is hand joint swelling MS-related? The short answer is: it can be, but indirectly.
MS doesn't directly cause joint inflammation, but it can lead to joint symptoms through a chain reaction of nerve and muscle changes. Here's how MS can indirectly contribute to hand joint swelling:
- Muscle spasms can affect the muscles controlling your hands, leading to stiffness and reduced movement
- Decreased movement can cause excess fluid buildup, which leads to swelling
- Spasticity causes tight muscles that keep joints bent or straight and hard to move
- Joint contractures can freeze or immobilize a joint, contributing to dysfunction and swelling
A MyMSTeam member shared, "My hands will spasm into claws so badly that I refrain from driving any farther than the store." It's also worth knowing that certain MS medications, like ocrelizumab (Ocrevus), can cause swelling as a side effect. If you're on any MS treatments, that could be a factor too.
It's always a good idea to flag any new or worsening swelling to your healthcare provider so they can help pinpoint the cause and find the best way to manage it.
May 21
Continue with Facebook
Continue with Email
Join
Your Privacy Choices
