Sign 6. Muscle Cramps and Stiffness – The Agonizing Signals of ALS
Another common symptom of ALS is muscle cramps and stiffness, medically termed spasticity. As motor neurons degenerate and muscles lose their regular input, they can become overactive, leading to cramps and increased muscle tone, or stiffness. This can be one of the more physically painful symptoms of ALS, causing discomfort and further limiting mobility.
Muscle cramps, typically sudden, painful contractions of muscles, are frequent in ALS. They can occur in any muscle group but are especially common in the limbs. They’re unpredictable and can range from mild (a minor twitch or tic) to severe (a painful contraction that lasts for several minutes).
Spasticity, on the other hand, is characterized by feelings of stiffness and resistance to movement in the muscles. It can make it difficult for individuals to move or use the affected body parts and can interfere with everyday tasks, such as walking or getting dressed. Severe spasticity can result in painful joint deformities and decreased functional abilities. (6)
