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Suggest Treatment For Cervical Degenerative Arthritis

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Posted on Fri, 5 Dec 2014
Question: I have cervical degenerative arthritis and about a year ago developed pectoral and upper extremity, at rest, fasciculations. I have also recently noticed right upper extremity weakness. ALS and MS have been ruled out by two neurologists. Is the arthritis the likely cause? Recommendations?
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Answered by Dr. Dr. Erion Spaho (41 minutes later)
Brief Answer:
Other neuromuscular disease should be assessed.

Detailed Answer:
Hi, I had gone through your question and understand your concerns. In my opinion arthritis has a low probability of causing fasciculations, it may cause weakness of muscles. Fasciculations are mainly features of neuromuscular diseases or lower motor neurons damage. Fasciculations may be side effect of drugs too. ALS is a diagnosis of exclusion so there is need for further tests to rule out other neuromuscular diseases ( ALS, Progressive muscular atrophy,Peripheral nerve hyperexcitability, etc.) These include cranial and cervical MRI, EMG of nerves. It is recommended after tests, a periodic neurologic- clinical evaluation to follow up the disease decurse. Hope this answers your question. If you have additional questions or follow up questions then please do not hesitate in writing to us. I will be happy to answer your questions.
Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Vinay Bhardwaj
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Answered by
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Dr. Dr. Erion Spaho

Neurologist, Surgical

Practicing since :2004

Answered : 4493 Questions

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Suggest Treatment For Cervical Degenerative Arthritis

Brief Answer: Other neuromuscular disease should be assessed. Detailed Answer: Hi, I had gone through your question and understand your concerns. In my opinion arthritis has a low probability of causing fasciculations, it may cause weakness of muscles. Fasciculations are mainly features of neuromuscular diseases or lower motor neurons damage. Fasciculations may be side effect of drugs too. ALS is a diagnosis of exclusion so there is need for further tests to rule out other neuromuscular diseases ( ALS, Progressive muscular atrophy,Peripheral nerve hyperexcitability, etc.) These include cranial and cervical MRI, EMG of nerves. It is recommended after tests, a periodic neurologic- clinical evaluation to follow up the disease decurse. Hope this answers your question. If you have additional questions or follow up questions then please do not hesitate in writing to us. I will be happy to answer your questions.