Multiple Sclerosis (MS) Support Group

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mmthlvr 05/12/2013

Anyone have severe hand/finger contractions, especially at night. It can be my whole hand, or just my fingers or thumb. I already have a hard time sleeping, this is making it worse. I do take Baclofen at bedtime, maybe I need more.
Hugs,
tammy

mixedupmelly 05/12/2013

It happens on my right hand and right foot. For four days it was so bad on my hand I had to wear a brace to straighten it. Mostly it's in my toes and ankles though. My doc has m on 1000 mg keppra 2x daily to help. It's not as bad as it was but it's very bad when I flare.

mmthlvr 05/12/2013

Thanks for your reply, what a stupid disease. I see my Dr Fri her day so I'll ask her about the Keppra.
Hugs,
Tammy

mjideas 05/12/2013

My hand started curling up about 5 yrs ago - happens to some with MS. I work with thera putty and wear a softbrace at night. I'd ask your Dr. about working with an OT.

As far as Keppra - I tried it once for nerve pain and had a reaction that it made me suicidal. Will NEVER forget it. I've never had a strong reaction like that in my life - before or since.

Melanie

Kayce1970 05/12/2013

I have this as well
I was told by my MS doc that Baclofen does not help this type of spasm
There might be under a different name in the US but the drug names (the ones he said would help) are
Tegretol and Gabapentin
You do have to go on Gabapentin slowly b/c you can have bad emotional side effects.
The first time I was on it I felt like screaming all of the time.
I am now on an anti-depressant
(apparently you can get depression from brain damage who knew)
I am now taking Gabapentin with no side effects (still crossing fingers)

I agree with MJIdeas .
I live in a long term hospital and the brace and OT is what they do
(after they try the drugs)
but sometimes they do both at once

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