What could be the reason for my constant muscle twitching in both calves?

Question

Hi doctor,

I have had twitches in both calves for about nine weeks now. These twitches constantly happen when at rest without any pain, and the twitches are visible in both calves. Sometimes I experience cramps in my feet also. I consulted a doctor and did MRI, nerve conduction study, and an EMG. Everything came back normal. And also did multiple blood tests, including vitamin levels. All were fine except ANA. The test for ANA was repeated with a DFS test, and the ANA came back at 1:160, and DFS was negative.

I have been through many tests with little in terms of a diagnosis and now need to wait until next year to see a rheumatologist.

Kindly give your opinion.

Thank you.

Answer 1

Hello,

Welcome to icliniq.com.

ANA (antinuclear antibody) is a very delicate test and depends on the substrate used for testing. Some laboratories use primate substrate, and this yields a false-positive result. DFS 70 (dense fine speckled antibody) confirms that ANA might be related to an actual rheumatological disease. If positive, it is more likely to be benign. But a normal EMG (electromyography) and MRI (magnetic resonance imaging) eliminates the diagnosis of myositis and lupus.

Take care.

Answer 2

Hello,

Welcome back to icliniq.com.

Your muscle twitchings are recurrent muscle cramps or spasm that is benign and not problematic at all. My advice is to start Cyclobenzaprine 5 mg at night and Magnesium supplements daily. I see no obvious rheumatological or any serious underlying cause.

Take care.