Welcome to the world of MS symptoms β it's quite the adventure, isn't it? (Hang in there!) Yes, toe cramping and seizing up can absolutely be a form of spasticity.
Spasticity is when your muscles experience an unusual increase in tone, causing stiffness, tightness, or cramping. With MS, mixed-up nerve signals can cause Show Full Answer
Welcome to the world of MS symptoms β it's quite the adventure, isn't it? (Hang in there!) Yes, toe cramping and seizing up can absolutely be a form of spasticity.
Spasticity is when your muscles experience an unusual increase in tone, causing stiffness, tightness, or cramping. With MS, mixed-up nerve signals can cause muscles to contract involuntarily. Some MyMSTeam members have described similar experiences, including:
- Toes curling up tight with the big toe going in the opposite direction
- Toes cramping and separating uncomfortably
- A feeling like walking in quicksand
It's worth mentioning to your neurologist or MS specialist so they can confirm whether it's spasticity versus weakness or another issue, as the treatments can differ. As for restless legs, many people with MS do experience leg-related spasticity that worsens at night, disrupting sleep. Spasticity is generally known to be worse when you're still or when it's cold.
Some things that may help with spasticity include:
- Stretching β even just 5 minutes before getting out of bed can make a real difference
- Staying warm β cold temperatures tend to worsen spasticity
- Talking to your doctor β there are both medication and non-medication options available
Always loop in your care team about new or worsening symptoms so they can find the right approach for you.
July 22