Ask a doctor on the topic of Neurology

Muscle twitching / Fasciculations

May 15, 2012 | 15,00 EUR | answered by Dr. med. Michael Schröter

Dear Sir or Madam,

For about 6 weeks now, I have been experiencing daily recurring, almost constant muscle twitches/fasciculations in individual muscle fibers. These primarily occur in the calves and are visible to outsiders. Often, there are 3-4 twitches in a row before a pause occurs, or they start twitching in other parts of the body (shoulder, upper/lower arm, abdomen, back, thighs). I notice the twitches most frequently when I am sitting or lying quietly during the day and at night.

Other symptoms I have include:
- chronically elevated liver values (GPT and GGT, diagnosed with non-alcoholic fatty liver disease since last September)
- CK value briefly elevated to 350 (normal 190) once, but returned to normal after 4 days
- Decreased performance, frequent fatigue, neck tension, headaches
- Strong concern about serious illnesses and associated stress

Are the muscle twitches a cause for concern? I have mentioned them to a neurologist who said it is a non-specific symptom.

Thank you and best regards!

Dr. med. Michael Schröter

Good morning,

indeed, muscle twitches are nonspecific symptoms. However, they can also be a sign of strong stress, both physically and mentally. In this case, progressive muscle relaxation is recommended. If you have to do heavy physical work, magnesium deficiency could also be responsible for the twitches. In this case, I recommend taking Magnesium 150 mg/day. This will definitely relax the muscles.

Regarding liver or other serious diseases, you don't have to worry about muscle twitches. This is not a sign of any serious condition.

Get well soon and take care.

Yours sincerely,

Dr. Schröter