muscle wasting before weakness? - Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis (ALS) Message Board

gdk · 09-12-2005, 04:39 PM

My husband has had symptoms of twitching which have worsened - they are all over his body. He saw a neurologist who looked at him for about 5-10 mins and told him he did not have als, however he continues to have the twitching and has started to become sore, especially in his shoulders, arm areas. However, what is concerning us is that he seems to be developing dents/depressions around his muscles - ie. atrophy (?) His arms, hands are looking "stringy". I am trying to reassure him that it could be something else, because from what I have read, he should be noticing weakness, tripping etc before he would have substantial, visual muscle loss. Also - he does not appear to be losing weight.

I would really appreciate hearing from anyone who may have a comment - - my husband has an appointment with a muscle specialist coming up at the end of the month, and I am trying to keep him positive.
Thanks,
gdk

Kaylynn · 09-14-2005, 06:08 PM

I hope you will post back here what your husband finds out. His case sounds almost exactly like mine. I've been dealing with doctors for a year and no answers. I've had several tests and all have come back normal. My arms fatigue easily (or maybe it's just a sore feeling) and my legs have the dents you describe. My chiropractor says my muscles feel "ropey". I have no weakness and this has been going on for over a year and a half. I haven't seen a muscle doctor yet. You can also e-mail me if you wish at [ please read and follow the posting rules - no emails ] I would sure love to hear what your husband finds out.

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gdk · 09-14-2005, 07:01 PM

Kaylynn,
Thank you so, so much for responding - it is a relief to hear from someone. I had posted on on this site as well as another, and no one had responded so I wasn't sure if what was happening was either (a) all in our heads or (b) something sooo horrific that no one wanted to submit anything. I had been fairly positive all along but my husband is terrified, and now that his appointment with the specialist is getting closer, I am getting more worried as well. It feels better just to know that there are similar symptoms "out there". I will definately post further after he sees the specialist ( removed - please read and follow the posting rules ) am hoping it will be good news.

ohio hunter · 09-15-2005, 01:54 PM

hi gdk and kaylynn

my trouble started with dimpling and twitching. i found out i had lyme disease.

please visit the lyme threads for more info.

jon

Kaylynn · 09-15-2005, 06:10 PM

Jon, I have thought about Lyme. I mentioned getting tested to my doctor and you know what he said? He doesn't believe in testing because a lot of times a false positive shows up and then people freak out! I still may pursue it in the future because I know it is a possibility.

gdk, I will be very anxious to hear what the muscle doctor says. I wish I had been referred to one and depending on what your husband finds out I may insist on one. I have had two emg's and two nerve conduction tests and several other tests and all have come out negative. Doctors don't feel it is als but I guess you always worry.