Constant Muscle Tightness on left side of body - Anxiety Message Board

athomemom · 12-26-2005, 08:23 PM

I hope someone can help me. I have been experiencing constant muscle stiffness and tightness on the left side of my body for the past 2 months. Soemtimes I get pins and needles and burning sensations. I have been to a chiropractor because I had sciatica also. There have been intermittent days with no pain and stiffness but it always returns. I have also been very anxious and depressed. Worried something is seriously wrong with me. Been to MD also who attributes it to anxiety and depression. Gave me Zoloft. Reacted badly NOw gave me Desryl to take at night. Can all this tightness and pain be caused by anxiety? Will the Desyrl help? Any input is appreciated.

perfect blue · 12-26-2005, 09:11 PM

Oh man...I had (have) this as well. I'd get them when I was on planes or in stressful meetings or out-of-control situations, and then they would last for days after I felt them b/c I focused on them and stressed about it. Went to MDs for help like five times last year and had all sorts of crazy, expensive tests run and they always turned out fine. Turns out this is a fairly common anxiety reaction. Ever notice that when yours go away that it's b/c you're REALLY relaxed and mellow? If so, that's a clue about where they come from. Tried deep beathing or meditating? Tried short-acting anxiety medications?

Oh...caveat...see a doctor if you really freak out and if you don't trust it get a second opinion. I don't know how many times it took me hearing that I was OK before it sunk in.

perfect blue · 12-26-2005, 09:39 PM

There are like four or five other posts on this topic on this board, and they are all pretty good. I responded to yours before reading the others...see what they have to say as well. I thought they had really good info.

Triple777 · 12-29-2005, 07:31 PM

I have what you are describing almost every day, but I've noticed, the more stressed I get, the worse it gets. Then I get muscle knots in my chest and back. The chiropractor gives very temporary relief. Having the knots rubbed out helps the most, but keeping the stress down is the best cure!

athomemom · 12-30-2005, 06:48 AM

Thank you perfect blue and you are not alone. I've been feeling a little less stressed since starting meds. I am also trying to keep up with breathing exercises. MD suggested yoga. Has anyone tried it? Hope you are all feeling well and that 2006 finds us all in better spirits emotionally and physically.