Multiple Sclerosis (MS) - Muscle Spasms

First and foremost, I want to make it clear that I am not a doctor. I have no medical knowledge, and everything I share is based on personal reflection. I always consult with my doctor before trying anything new, and I strongly recommend that others do the same. Everyone’s experience is different, and what works for me might not work for you—it could even cause significant problems. With that said:

Lets talk about Muscle Spasms (a very common symptom) 

This summer in the desert was extremely hot, and unfortunately, the heat really impacts my MS. During the summer this year, I pretty much hid in the house. But because running the air conditioning 24/7 is so expensive, I had to keep it set fairly high.

(this image not my artwork or photography created with copilot)

I noticed a lot more tremors this summer, especially at night, and much more muscle spasms, even in my face and neck. I’m not sure how many others with MS experience these, but they are some of my most hated symptoms.  I am now enjoying the coolness of fall but MS symptoms don't change as fast as the weather.

Fortunately, I can take a muscle relaxant at night which helps a little, but not enough to sleep. And worse, what do I do during the day? I work full-time plus, so it’s not an option to take something sedating. Typing for work or on my days of painting, crafting, etc., triggers them in my hands.

Then a friend introduced me to **Tiger Balm**, available almost everywhere including Walmart. It is a lifesaver! But it smells and will burn certain area if you accidentally touch them; Eyes, for example, but any sensitive areas will be a big problem, so be careful. I use rubber gloves when applying to legs, etc. Unfortunately, I have spasms in my hands, so I then use it directly and just exercise extreme caution about what I touch.

I don't like feeling cold at all, so I dislike the common well-known muscle rubs (not naming their brands but their name has "Ice" right in it) or anything that gives you that cold sensation. While Tiger Balm will give you a burning sensation like those others, it is a warm feeling which works really well for me.

In addition to checking with your doctor, always test for allergies before applying anything new all over. And even more importantly, if you have allergies, check the ingredients. Speaking of ingredients, I have found recipes for making your own, but I have never tried it. I would love to hear if anyone has or if you have had really good experiences with relieving those horrible cramps.  Here is a link: https://www.thesunshinehustle.com/making/diy-tiger-balm  to one if you want to try it yourself and I will also report back if I decide to purchase the ingredients and try it myself!