"The best piece of advice that I've received to manage my MS is to take care of myself."
Pain
More than half of the people with MS find that pain is a problem. Pain appears to result from "short circuits" in the pathways that carry sensory impulses between the brain and the spinal cord. It is not a predictor of the course of MS.
Pain can be broken into 2 categories: acute and chronic.
Acute pain
Trigeminal neuralgia
is a stabbing pain in the face. It can occur as an initial symptom of MS. It can be confused with dental pain. However, this pain is due to nerves.
Lhermitte's sign
is a brief, stabbing, electric shock-like sensation that runs from the back of the head down the spine. It can be brought on by bending the neck forward. It can be a signal of a loss of myelin in the neck region of the spinal cord.
Dysesthesia
is a burning, aching sensation that occurs around the body.
Chronic pain
Burning, aching, prickling, or "pins and needles"
Pain of spasticity,
such as tightness or aching in joints and muscle spasms or cramps—called flexor spasms—may occur.
Back and other musculoskeletal pain,
especially lower back pain, can have many causes. They include:
- Spasticity
- Pressure on the body caused by immobility
- Incorrect use of mobility aids
- Poor walking posture, unusual walking pattern, and balance problems
Dealing with pain
You do not have to suffer with pain. An evaluation to pinpoint the source of the pain is essential. Fortunately, there are a number of medications that can help. Speak to your health care provider for more information.
Nonmedication treatments may include exercise, heat, massage, ultrasound, and physical therapy. In addition, biofeedback, meditation, and similar techniques may be of help.
