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Real members of MySpondylitisTeam have posted questions and answers that support our community guidelines, and should not be taken as medical advice. Looking for the latest medically reviewed content by doctors and experts? Visit our resource section.

Is have muscle spasms in your calves apart of having AS?

A MySpondylitisTeam Member asked a question 💭
August 20
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Answer Summary

Members explored whether muscle spasms in the calves are connected to ankylosing spondylitis, with many sharing that their spasms were linked... Read more

Members explored whether muscle spasms in the calves are connected to ankylosing spondylitis, with many sharing that their spasms were linked to related or separate conditions like Melorheostosis or other autoimmune issues. Several members recommended Gabapentin as a helpful treatment, with one member describing relief using low-dose Gabapentin on a strict 4-hour schedule to keep levels steady. A recurring theme was the importance of talking to a doctor, getting imaging done, and researching ongoing studies, including work at the National Institutes of Health.

A MySpondylitisTeam Member

@A MySpondylitisTeam Member, Of the research that is being done, is there a country that seems to be moving in the direction of either a cure or a manageable method to ease the disease. I think the USA right now is the wrong place to get any treatment. Even if they knew of a cure, they would just as soon sell you meds to take the rest of your life. I heard that they are a lot more progressive in China. I read this and it baffles me: if you live in the US and you need an MRI, you can fly to china, stay at a first class hotel, get an mri for $70- total cost of trip w mri is same or less than what it would cost in US even with insurance. So maybe China has the medical breakthroughs you need for Melo. Its worth doing some research. - Drew

August 22
A MySpondylitisTeam Member

@A MySpondylitisTeam Member I’m so sorry to hear that you’re having muscle spasms and your legs. I’ve been experiencing the same issues. I just had an appointment with my Pain Management Specialist on Tuesday I was telling him that I’ve been experiencing some moderate to severe muscle spasms in my left leg calf. Come to find out, it’s connected to a rare bone disease, that I’ve been diagnose with for quite some time now. He Prescribe Gabapentin for me to take 3 times a day. You should have a conversation with your Doctor. To get an X-ray or MRI to see exactly what’s wrong.
I hope you feel better soon. Shurrun

August 20
MySpondylitisTeam

Are muscle spasms in the calves a part of having AS? This is a great question, and the short answer is: it's not a primary symptom, but it can be connected.

AS mainly targets the spine, sacroiliac joints, and areas where tendons and ligaments attach to bones (called entheses). While calf muscle spasms aren't listed as a Show Full Answer

Are muscle spasms in the calves a part of having AS? This is a great question, and the short answer is: it's not a primary symptom, but it can be connected.

AS mainly targets the spine, sacroiliac joints, and areas where tendons and ligaments attach to bones (called entheses). While calf muscle spasms aren't listed as a direct symptom, AS-related nerve involvement could play a role.

Here's how AS might contribute to calf issues:

- Nerve compression — As the spine fuses and inflammation builds, nerves can become compressed, potentially causing pain, tingling, or spasms in the legs
- Cauda equina syndrome — A rare but serious AS complication where pressure on nerve roots at the base of the spine can cause weakness, numbness, or tingling in the legs and feet
- Neuropathy — Bone overgrowth and inflammation in the spine can lead to nerve damage, which may be felt anywhere along the nerve pathway, including the calves

It's really important to mention calf spasms to your doctor, especially if they're frequent or getting worse. If nerve-related symptoms are involved, early attention matters.

August 20
A MySpondylitisTeam Member

@A MySpondylitisTeam Member, I also have muscle spasms in my calves. Gabapentin works, you just need to talk with your physician about the dosage to start gradually. I've been on gabapentin for insomnia for many years and I'm on a high dosage without any problem. It has also been prescribed to me on a low dosage to take throughout the day for chronic pain 🌺

August 23
A MySpondylitisTeam Member

@A MySpondylitisTeam Member, @A MySpondylitisTeam Member, - Gabapentin may be causing other problems or side effects. See picture below. If you have any question, do a test: stop Gabapentin and see how you feel! The same for any other drug you take. Hope this helps! - Drew

August 23

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does anyone have big issues with cramping and spasms

A MySpondylitisTeam Member asked a question 💭
Billings, MO
March 17, 2023

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