Girdle Sensation of Multple Sclerosis
The girdle sensation in multiple sclerosis can be caused by one of two things; both are the result of problems in the central nervous system facing those who suffer from multiple sclerosis.
The girdle sensation in multiple sclerosis is characterized by a feeling of tightness anywhere in or around the torso. It may come in waves that can last for minutes, seconds, hours, or longer; depending on its severity, it may also lead to difficulty breathing.
One explanation is that the girdle sensation in multiple sclerosis is caused by the muscle spasms from the tiny muscles, called the intercostals, that hold up the ribs. The intercostals behave this way as a result of a lesion in the spinal cord. Alternatively, the girdle sensation in multiple sclerosis may be caused by a neurological malfunction consistent with multiple sclerosis called dysesthesia. Dysesthesia is a tactile hallucination produced in the central nervous system. Both muscle spasms and neurological disorders such as dysesthesia are not uncommon symptoms of MS.
Girdle Sensation of Multple Sclerosis
Consequently, there are a number of ways the girdle sensation in multiple sclerosis might be dealt with. If the pain is the result of spasms in the intercostals, some methods of relieving it include: deep breathing exercises; applying pressure to the area; creative visualization to help in the relaxation of the muscles; increasing fluid intake; massaging the area; applying warmth to the area; and taking appropriate medication.
Likewise, if dysesthesia is causing the girdle sensation in multiple sclerosis, medications such as Neurontin and Elavil can be effective, as well as using a pressure stocking or a warm compress to alter the sensation of pain to one of pressure or warmth respectively.
The girdle sensation in multiple sclerosis, whether resulting from intercostals muscle spasms caused by a spinal lesion or from dysesthesia, can be extremely frustrating and painful, but is ultimately the result of the malfunction of the central nervous system consistant with MS.