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Back and arms Muscle spasms Recurrent Since childhood “Frequent muscle cramps/spasms in back and arms, history of kidney stones”
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Bone and Orthopedic Conditions
Question #21956
46 days ago
115

Back and arms Muscle spasms Recurrent Since childhood “Frequent muscle cramps/spasms in back and arms, history of kidney stones” - #21956

Sumon

I am 29 years old. I have recurrent muscle spasms about 5–10 times a month, mainly in my back and arms. It started since I was 13 after a fever and kidney stones. Sometimes my back and arms feel stiff and heavy during spasms. I have not visited a doctor recently. I want advice on possible causes and next steps.

Bone
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Dr. Prasannajeet Singh Shekhawat
I am a 2023 batch passout and working as a general physician right now, based in Hanumangarh, Rajasthan. Still kinda new in the bigger picture maybe, but honestly—every single day in this line teaches you more than textbooks ever could. I’ve had the chance to work under some pretty respected doctors during and after my graduation, not just for the clinical part but also to see how they handle people, real people, in pain, in panic, and sometimes just confused about their own health. General medicine covers a lot, right? Like from the smallest complaints to those random, vague symptoms that no one really understands at first—those are kinda my zone now. I don’t really rush to label things, I try to spend time actually listening. Feels weird to say it but ya, I do take that part seriously. Some patients just need someone to hear the whole story instead of jumping to prescription pads after 30 seconds. Right now, my practice includes everything from managing common infections, blood pressure issues, sugar problems to more layered cases where symptoms overlap and you gotta just... piece things together. It's not glamorous all the time, but it's real. I’ve handled a bunch of seasonal disease waves too, like dengue surges and viral fevers that hit rural belts hard—Hanumangarh doesn’t get much spotlight but there’s plenty happening out here. Also, I do rely on basics—thorough history, solid clinical exam and yeah when needed, investigations. But not over-prescribing things just cz they’re there. One thing I picked up from the senior consultants I worked with—they used to say “don’t chase labs, chase the patient’s story”... stuck with me till now. Anyway, still learning every single day tbh. But I like that. Keeps me grounded and kind of obsessed with trying to get better.
45 days ago
5

Hello Sumon Thanks for sharing these details. Recurrent muscle spasms in your back and arms, especially with stiffness and heaviness, can have several possible causes. Since this started after a fever and kidney stones at age 13 and has been ongoing for years, here are some likely possibilities:

Possible Causes - Electrolyte Imbalance: Low levels of calcium, magnesium, or potassium can cause muscle spasms, especially if you have a history of kidney issues. - Nerve-Related Issues: Sometimes, nerve compression or irritation in the spine or arms can lead to spasms and stiffness. - Muscle Fatigue or Overuse: Repetitive strain or poor posture can also cause these symptoms. - Chronic Conditions: Rarely, conditions like dystonia or other neurological disorders can present this way, but these are less common.

Next Steps 1. Blood Tests: It’s important to check your blood levels for calcium, magnesium, potassium, and kidney function. 2. Hydration: Make sure you’re drinking enough water, especially if you have a history of kidney stones. 3. See a Doctor: A neurologist or general physician can examine you and may suggest further tests like nerve studies or imaging if needed. 4. Track Symptoms: Note when spasms happen, what triggers them, and if anything relieves them.

Thank you and get well soon

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Muscle spasms and stiffness can be frustrating, and given your history and recurring nature since childhood, it’s important to explore possible factors contributing to these symptoms. Several conditions could be at play here, so addressing the underlying cause is crucial for effective management. Firstly, a recurring history of kidney stones suggests you might have a mineral imbalance, particularly with calcium or magnesium, which can contribute to muscle spasms. Electrolyte imbalances, such as low magnesium or potassium, can lead to increased excitability of the nerves and muscles, causing cramps or spasms. Simple blood tests can help to evaluate these levels and address any deficiencies through diet modification or supplementation.

Additionally, since your symptoms began after a fever and have persisted since, it’s worth considering whether an infection or an inflammatory condition might have affected your muscles or nerves originally. Though less likely, conditions like fibromyalgia or even a post-viral syndrome could be factors worth investigating. Another aspect to consider is your hydration status and general physical activity levels. Dehydration is a common trigger for muscle cramps, so ensuring adequate fluid intake daily is paramount. Stretching exercises, regular physical activity, and maintaining a healthy diet are also supportive measures.

Given these possibilities and their complexity, it would be good to consult with a healthcare provider, ideally a general practitioner or neurologist. They may want to do a thorough physical exam and review your medical history. Depending on the findings, they might recommend testing for electrolyte levels, or perhaps an EMG or nerve conduction study if nerve involvement is suspected. If there’s any concern around an ongoing inflammatory or autoimmune condition, more specialized tests may be warranted. In the meantime, keeping a log of your symptoms, what might trigger them, and any relieving factors can be helpful information to share with your physician. While self-care can offer temporary relief, a professional evaluation will provide a clearer understanding of the next steps for your condition.

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Dr. Alan Reji
I'm Dr. Alan Reji, a general dentist with a deep-rooted passion for helping people achieve lasting oral health while making dental visits feel less intimidating. I graduated from Pushpagiri College of Dental Sciences (batch of 2018), and ever since, I've been committed to offering high-quality care that balances both advanced clinical knowledge and genuine compassion for my patients. Starting Dent To Smile here in Palakkad wasn’t just about opening a clinic—it was really about creating a space where people feel relaxed the moment they walk in. Dental care can feel cold or overly clinical, and I’ve always wanted to change that. So I focused on making it warm, easygoing, and centered completely around you. I mix new-age tech with some good old-fashioned values—really listening, explaining stuff without jargon, and making sure you feel involved, not just treated. From regular cleanings to fillings or even cosmetic work, I try my best to keep things smooth and stress-free. No hidden steps. No last-minute surprises. I have a strong interest in patient education and preventive dentistry. I genuinely believe most dental issues can be caught early—or even avoided—when patients are given the right information at the right time. That’s why I take time to talk, not just treat. Helping people understand why something’s happening is as important to me as treating what’s happening. At my practice, I’ve made it a point to stay current with the latest innovations—digital diagnostics, minimally invasive techniques, and smart scheduling that respects people’s time. I also try to make my services accessible and affordable, because good dental care shouldn’t be out of reach for anyone.
43 days ago
5

Recurrent muscle spasms with stiffness since adolescence can be due to electrolyte imbalances (calcium, magnesium, potassium), vitamin D deficiency, dehydration, nerve or muscle disorders, or less commonly post-infectious or metabolic causes—especially given your history of fever and kidney stones. Many of these are treatable once identified, but they need proper evaluation rather than guesswork. Please consult a neurologist or physician for examination and basic blood tests (electrolytes, calcium, magnesium, vitamin D, kidney function) so the cause can be identified and managed correctly.

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Dr. Arsha K Isac
I am a general dentist with 3+ years of working in real-world setups, and lemme say—every single patient teaches me something diff. It’s not just teeth honestly, it’s people… and how they feel walking into the chair. I try really hard to not make it just a “procedure thing.” I explain stuff in plain words—no confusing dental jargon, just straight talk—coz I feel like when ppl *get* what's going on, they feel safer n that makes all the difference. Worked with all ages—like, little kids who need that gentle nudge about brushing, to older folks who come in with long histories and sometimes just need someone to really sit n listen. It’s weirdly rewarding to see someone walk out lighter, not just 'coz their toothache's gone but coz they felt seen during the whole thing. A lot of ppl come in scared or just unsure, and I honestly take that seriously. I keep the vibe calm. Try to read their mood, don’t rush. I always tell myself—every smile’s got a story, even the broken ones. My thing is: comfort first, then precision. I want the outcome to last, not just look good for a week. Not tryna claim perfection or magic solutions—just consistent, clear, hands-on care where patients feel heard. I think dentistry should *fit* the person, not push them into a box. That's kinda been my philosophy from day one. And yeah, maybe sometimes I overexplain or spend a bit too long checking alignment again but hey, if it means someone eats pain-free or finally smiles wide in pics again? Worth it. Every time.
45 days ago
5

Hello,

Recurrent muscle spasms since childhood can be due to electrolyte imbalance (low magnesium, calcium, or potassium), dehydration, vitamin D deficiency, muscle overuse/posture issues, or rarely nerve or metabolic problems.

Your history of kidney stones increases the chance of calcium or magnesium imbalance, which commonly causes cramps.

🛑Get basic blood tests: Calcium, Magnesium, Potassium, Vitamin D, Kidney function (RFT)

Drink adequate water daily (very important with stone history)

Ensure diet rich in magnesium & potassium (banana, nuts, leafy greens)

Gentle stretching of back and arms daily

🛑Avoid excess caffeine and alcohol

Kindly See a doctor (physician or neurologist)in person if spasms worsen, become painful, cause weakness, or if blood tests are abnormal.

Need evaluation

Kindly do these tests and either revert or do follow up with your nearest physician

I trust this helps Thank you !

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Dr. Nikhil Chauhan
I am currently working as a urologist and kidney transplant surgeon at Graphic Era Medical College & Hospital, Dehradun. It's a role that keeps me on my toes, honestly. I handle a pretty wide range of urology cases—stones, prostate issues, urinary tract obstructions, infections, you name it. Some are straightforward, others way more complex than you expect at first glance. Every patient walks in with a different story and that’s what keeps the work real for me. Kidney transplant surgery, though, that’s a whole different zone. You’re not just working on anatomy—you’re dealing with timelines, matching, medications, family dynamics, emotional pressure... and yeah, very precise coordination. I’m part of a team that manages the entire transplant process—from evaluation to surgery to post-op care. Not gonna lie, it’s intense. But seeing someone who’s been on dialysis for years finally get a new shot at life—there’s nothing really like that feeling. In the OR, I’m detail-focused. Outside of it, I try to stay accessible—patients don’t always need answers right away, sometimes they just need to feel heard. I believe in walking them through what’s going on rather than just giving reports and instructions. Especially in transplant cases, trust matters. And clear, honest conversation helps build that. Urology itself is such a misunderstood field sometimes. People ignore symptoms for years because it feels “awkward” or they think it’s not serious until it becomes unmanageable. I’ve had patients who came in late just because they were embarassed to talk about urine flow or testicular pain. That’s why I also try to make the space judgment-free—like whatever it is, we’ll figure it out. At the end of the day, whether I’m scrubbing in for surgery or doing OPD rounds, I just want to make sure what I do *actually* helps. That the effort’s not wasted. And yeah, some days are frustrating—some procedures don’t go clean, some recoveries take longer than they should—but I keep showing up, cause the work’s worth doing. Always is.
45 days ago
5

Hi Sumon,

Possible Causes:

· Electrolyte Imbalance – Low calcium/magnesium/potassium, often linked to kidney stones. · Kidney Function Issues – Recurrent stones may disrupt mineral balance, triggering spasms. · Chronic Dehydration – Can worsen stones and muscle cramps. · Post-infection Effects – Fever at onset may have impacted nerves or metabolism.

Next Steps:

1. Consult a Urologist/Nephrologist – Prioritize for kidney stone and spasm evaluation. 2. Get Tests Done – Blood (electrolytes, kidney function) and urine analysis. 3. Imaging – Ultrasound/CT to check for current kidney stones. 4. Hydration & Diet – Increase water intake, limit salt/oxalate-rich foods, consider electrolyte supplements if advised.

Act Now – Recurrent spasms with kidney history need prompt checkup.

Dr. Nikhil Chauhan, Urologist

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Dr. Shayeque Reza
I completed my medical degree in 2023, but honestly, my journey in healthcare started way before that. Since 2018, I’ve been actively involved in clinical practice—getting hands-on exposure across multiple departments like ENT, pediatrics, dermatology, ophthalmology, medicine, and emergency care. One of the most intense and defining phases of my training was working at a District Government Hospital for a full year during the COVID pandemic. It was chaotic, unpredictable, and exhausting—but it also grounded me in real-world medicine like no textbook ever could. Over time, I’ve worked in both OPD and IPD setups, handling everything from mild viral fevers to more stubborn, long-term conditions. These day-to-day experiences really built my base and taught me how to stay calm when things get hectic—and how to adjust fast when plans don’t go as expected. What I’ve learned most is that care isn't only about writing the right medicine. It’s about being fully there, listening properly, and making sure the person feels seen—not just treated. Alongside clinical work, I’ve also been exposed to preventive health, health education, and community outreach. These areas really matter to me because I believe real impact begins outside the hospital, with awareness and early intervention. My approach is always centered around clarity, empathy, and clinical logic—I like to make sure every patient knows exactly what’s going on and why we’re doing what we’re doing. I’ve always felt a pull towards general medicine and internal care, and honestly, I’m still learning every single day—each patient brings a new lesson. Medicine never really sits still, it keeps shifting, and I try to shift with it. Not just in terms of what I know, but also in how I listen and respond. For me, it’s always been about giving real care. Genuine, respectful, and the kind that actually helps a person heal—inside and out.
45 days ago
5

Your long-standing, recurrent muscle spasms are most likely due to a chronic neuromuscular or metabolic issue, such as electrolyte imbalance (especially low magnesium or calcium), muscle fatigue, dehydration, or nerve irritation that may have started after your earlier illness. The fact that this has been stable for many years without progression makes a serious neurological disease less likely. However, because the spasms are recurrent and involve stiffness and heaviness, a medical evaluation is advisable to identify correctable causes. Basic blood tests (electrolytes, calcium, magnesium, vitamin D, kidney function) and a clinical examination are the next appropriate steps. With proper diagnosis and treatment, these spasms are usually manageable and not dangerous.

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Dr. Bharat Joshi
I’m a periodontist and academician with a strong clinical and teaching background. Over the last 4 years and 8 months, I’ve been actively involved in dental education, guiding students at multiple levels including dental hygienist, BDS, and MDS programs. Currently, I serve as a Reader at MMCDSR in Ambala, Haryana—a role that allows me to merge my academic passion with hands-on experience. Clinically, I’ve been practicing dentistry for the past 12 years. From routine procedures like scaling and root planing to more advanced cases involving grafts, biopsies, and implant surgeries. Honestly, I still find joy in doing a simple RCT when it’s needed. It’s not just about the procedure but making sure the patient feels comfortable and safe. Academically, I have 26 research publications to my credit. I’m on the editorial boards of the Archives of Dental Research and Journal of Dental Research and Oral Health, and I’ve spent a lot of time reviewing manuscripts—from case reports to meta-analyses and even book reviews. I was honored to receive the “Best Editor” award by Innovative Publications, and Athena Publications recognized me as an “excellent reviewer,” which honestly came as a bit of a surprise! In 2025, I had the opportunity to present a guest lecture in Italy on traumatic oral lesions. Sharing my work and learning from peers globally has been incredibly fulfilling. Outside academics and clinics, I’ve also worked in the pharmaceutical sector as a Drug Safety Associate for about 3 years, focusing on pharmacovigilance. That role really sharpened my attention to detail and deepened my understanding of drug interactions and adverse effects. My goal is to keep learning, and give every patient and student my absolute best.
45 days ago
5

Hello dear See you are quite young. I think the spasm are related with muscle stiffness due to inactivity or there can be chances of ankylosing spondylitis. Even in anemia and osteoporosis,the condition occurs. I suggest you to please get following tests done and do regular exercise for preventing muscle fatigue Serum tsh Serum vitamin d 3 Serum calcium Serum iron Esr CBC Rft Lft Crp Hla b 27 Please share the result with general physician medicine or orthopedic surgeon for better clarity In addition please donot take any medication without consulting the concerned physician only Do small excess like Stretching Brisk walk for 30 minutes Small weight lifting 1-2 kg dumbles Yoga Hopefully you recover soon Regards

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