Can NMOSD at 26 cause shooting pains in arms and legs?

Question

Hello doctor,

I’ve been getting weird shooting pains that start in my back and shoot into my arms and legs. This is due to my NMOSD at 26. Sometimes they almost feel like electric shocks and can stop me dead in my tracks.I’m trying not to panic but any new nerve symptom makes me worried because of my diagnosis.

Can NMOSD cause electric-shock pain down the spine and into the limbs?
If yes, are these symptoms typical of inflammation of the spinal cord?

Please help.

Thank you.

Answer 1

Hello,

Welcome to icliniq.com.

I have gone through your query and understand your concern.

NMOSD (neuromyelitis optica spectrum disorder) can cause stabbing, shooting, burning or electric-type pains that go through the back, arms or legs. Many people describe them just as you have described. Often, inflammation of the spinal cord occurs, called transverse myelitis. This can irritate or damage nerve pathways and trigger these sudden electrical sensations or radiating pains.

Along with these symptoms, some people also feel a tight band-like sensation around their torso, painful muscle spasms, tingling, or increased sensitivity.

That said, in NMOSD it is important to monitor closely for any new neurological symptoms, because pain can sometimes be an early sign of spinal cord inflammation or a relapse. This is particularly the case if the pain is accompanied by new weakness, numbness, balance problems, bladder symptoms, vision changes or worsening difficulty walking.

Not every episode of shooting pain means that a new attack is coming on. Chronic nerve pain can continue even when there are no relapses. But new or changing symptoms require medical attention sooner rather than later.

Your concern is understandable given your diagnosis, and it would be a reasonable and important next step to contact your neurologist promptly to discuss whether imaging studies or a clinical examination would be needed.

I hope I have answered your question.

Let me know if I can assist you further.

Thank you.