Are you experiencing hand weakness with MS? This is a very common symptom — research suggests up to 70% of people with MS deal with some degree of muscle weakness, and the hands are often affected.
Hand weakness in MS happens because the nerves that control hand muscles get damaged, reducing the signals needed to keep Show Full Answer
Are you experiencing hand weakness with MS? This is a very common symptom — research suggests up to 70% of people with MS deal with some degree of muscle weakness, and the hands are often affected.
Hand weakness in MS happens because the nerves that control hand muscles get damaged, reducing the signals needed to keep muscles strong and working properly. Some MyMSTeam members have shared what hand weakness feels like for them:
- Struggling to open jars, bottles, or bags without help
- Needing both hands just to turn a doorknob
- Dropping objects unexpectedly
- Finding it hard to wring out a cloth or lift everyday items
These challenges can make daily independence harder to maintain, which is genuinely frustrating. There are ways to help manage hand weakness:
- Physical therapy can improve strength and flexibility
- Occupational therapy can teach techniques to make daily tasks easier
- Splints or braces may help support the hand
- Botox injections can help in cases where muscle spasms contribute to weakness
It's worth speaking with your neurologist or care team about which options might work best for your situation.
August 20
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