Avoiding EMG Appointment Out of Fear

[usysparawl]

I've been twitching for seven months now. At first, I went to my orthopedic surgeon (family friend) who gave me a quick neuro test and looked at me like I was crazy. He ordered an EMG to check for nerve damage due to my back. (EMG's diagnose things other than ALS.) It was to be done by a technician. I was so scared the day of my appointment. They called to reschedule it, and I never called back! I decided I wanted to be seen by a neurologist first, not some techie and then get the report two weeks later. Oh, he also sent me to PT for my bad neck. She did a THOROUGH strength test -- much more than the neuro does. She said everything looked normal, but my shoulders were a little weak. (They don't even twitch.) When I asked if I had a neuro problem, she looked at me like I was crazy! She said, "No, nothing like that. You just need to exercise."

At about three months, I saw a neuro. He did a detailed neuro exam, told me I did not have ALS, and to come back at six months. He said if I passed then, I would never have to see him again. Well, I have not been back. I may still go, especially since I am now having numbness in my thigh (I'm pregnant), but I will wait and see what my OB says.

The neuro did not order an EMG, but offered one to me -- it was a choice.

I have a cousin with MS, which is FAR less frightening than ALS. She has lived with it for 30 years and is now in a wheel chair, but wasn't for years. Anyway, she would have these attacks that came and went, and it was much more obvious than some twitching or weird sensations.

Peg

 

[RipleyGates]

let me say this. I have twitched for ten years now. I have seen 3 neros, and 2 movement disordr specialists, all is normal so that route is over.Look at it this way we are either looking for a death sentence (als) or are stuck wuth this incredibly annoying disorder Its either one or the other,with no in betweens, so take your pick,grab on tight and hang on,because its going to be a long ride!

 

[stevenpaulo]

Well said Roger, after 9 years with this disorder I couldn't agree more.

Steve.