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Muscle spasms with flares

A myRAteam Member asked a question 💭
Lutz, FL

Hi I’m curious if anyone else has this issue, I’ve had RA about 11 years and even before diagnosis I’ve always known when the weather was going to change by my achy joints back in 2024 I live in Florida we had 3 hurricanes and my 3 worst flares to date but what seemed different was the muscle spasms just twisted me up one so bad I ruptured my bicep the rheumatologist said that’s not RA sent me to neurologist saying it had to be neurological but they found nothing. Because the flares were so… read more

March 18
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A myRAteam Member

I have arthritis in my ears and in one ear, this has been accompanied with muscle spasms in my neck. Currently taking new medication that has reduced the pain in my ear but still get occasional muscle spasms. I'm hoping they go away as the medication kicks in more.

March 25
A myRAteam Member

Hi, I've had RA for 36 yrs now and about 10 years ago developed what I thought was Restless Leg Syndrome. It would bother me mostly at night just as I was falling asleep. Bam out of nowhere my legs would jolt me out of sleep and not want to settle down. Sometimes the spasms would cause me to experience charlie horses, other times they would keep me up all night because they just would not stop. I, like you, got no relief by taking muscle relaxers. What I have found that works to get them to subside during the episode is to get up and walk around for about 20 minutes. It seems to help subdue the pain and tightness of the muscles. then I can go back to bed and sleep without them coming back. No need to worry about your upcoming surgery. I had both of my hips replaced (2017 and 2022) and some how my body knew that I couldn't get up and walk it out. I experienced absolutely no spasms during recovery. Maybe it was because my body was already in shock and recovery mode from the surgery. I don't know why but no spasms at all after surgery. Of course I did all the exercises and PT that I was supposed and maybe that physical exercise was what helped to prevent them. Anyway just what works for me and better than taking more pills. Good luck with your upcoming surgery and if you give it a try let me know if it works for you as well. PS sometimes if the spasms weren't too bad, I'd just drink a little pickle juice and go back to bed. Listen to your body, it will tell you what it needs.

March 19
myRAteam

Do muscle spasms happen with RA flares?

You're definitely not alone in experiencing muscle spasms with your RA flares. Many myRAteam members report similar issues with muscle twitching, cramping, and spasms, especially during flare-ups.

One member shared: "I'm having a bit of a flare-up, and I noticed that I started Show Full Answer

Do muscle spasms happen with RA flares?

You're definitely not alone in experiencing muscle spasms with your RA flares. Many myRAteam members report similar issues with muscle twitching, cramping, and spasms, especially during flare-ups.

One member shared: "I'm having a bit of a flare-up, and I noticed that I started twitching a lot in my hands, well, actually my whole body." Another said: "With RA, you expect joint pain, but what bothers me even more are the muscle spasms."

Why this happens:

There are several reasons muscle spasms can occur with RA:

* Muscle weakness - People with RA may have 25-70% less muscle strength than those without the condition, which can lead to spasms
* Reduced physical activity - Joint pain and swelling can cause you to limit movement, leading to muscle loss and weakness over time
* Electrolyte imbalances - Low or high levels of calcium, magnesium, potassium, sodium, or phosphate can trigger spasms
* Inflammation - The inflammatory process itself can affect muscles
* Weather changes - Many members find their symptoms worsen with weather shifts, just like you've experienced What might help:

Since muscle relaxers aren't providing relief, consider discussing these options with your healthcare team:

* Hot or cold treatments - Can help reduce muscle cramping
* Electrical stimulation - Sends small pulses to muscles to help relax spasms
* Physical therapy - Range-of-motion exercises and guided activity plans can maintain flexibility
* Proper hydration - Dehydration can worsen muscle twitches and spasms
* Electrolyte replenishment - If you've lost fluids, sports drinks or electrolyte products might help restore balance
* Massage therapy - May help relax tight muscles and improve circulation

Before your hip replacement:

It's understandable to feel concerned about spasms during recovery. Talk with both your rheumatologist and surgeon about:

* Your history of severe muscle spasms during flares
* Alternative strategies to manage inflammation without prednisone (given your diabetes concerns)
* A coordinated plan between your care team for post-surgical management

A myRAteam member noted: "I feel like I have finally figured this whole thing out... It does take discipline, preparation, and an RA toolbox and emergency kit."

March 18

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