The MS Hug has become my new companion. Yuck! This is not like any hug I’ve ever had. Crazy muscle spasms that crush my ribs all around my torso. Who named it a hug? More like an assault.The pain and discomfort are reminiscent of the worst heartburn ever and similar to what I imagine a heart attack must feel like. Sometimes the pain provokes panic that only makes it worse.Then depression joins the party and plays along.I haven’t had to deal with this much over my 50 year battle with MS.Until now. So what to do, and why now?

My neurologist says try Baclofen. Usually reserved for bedtime to allow me to sleep by relieving muscle spasms in my legs, this medication is my new afternoon friend, sometimes coupled with ibuprofen to stave off the worst of the pain. But again, why now? I have had extensive body work lately to improve my bent over posture, straighten my spine and free my body to move more naturally… I am three inches taller and much more erect. It really is working. However, the muscles in my torso are having to conform to new patterns and work harder than before. Enter the ill named MS hug.

I prefer to view this as progress. I will continue with physical therapy and structural integration bodywork. Hopefully, as my muscles adapt to the new normal and grow stronger and more accustomed to their new workload, the hideous hugs will subside. Until then, I’m stuck with pharmaceutical intervention, deep breathing and relaxation techniques. Knowing I’m not having a heart attack helps, but only slightly. I know the anxiety and depression are normal sequelae of grieving my former self. Knowing can only help some. As always, I will keep plugging along. What other choice is there?

 

Never try any medications without consulting your doctor. The medications mentioned are what my doctor recommended for my personal condition and may not work for you, or may even cause adverse reactions.