I had my brain MRI and the results show:

FINDINGS: No evidence of extra axial fluid, intracranial hemorrhage, mass, mass effect, or midline shift. Ventricles are normal in size. Parenchymal signal is within normal limits. Cisterns are patent. Major vascular flow-voids are within normal limits. Globes and mastoids are unremarkable. Paranasal sinuses are unremarkable.

CONCLUSION: Negative brain MRI

The doctor is stating that my symptoms are related to anxiety/stress with a possible correlation to my elevated B6 levels amplifying neurological symptoms. My B6 was at 25 (range = 2 - 22). Doc believes B6 levels were in the 40s or maybe higher three weeks prior to blood test as I was on 100mg of B6.

My B12 was in the 1,100+ range and Vit D3 was in the 50 range.

My symptoms, which began 6 weeks ago are: leg and foot muscle twitching, ball of foot pain on both feet, random nerve zaps, random itching, tightness in upper left portion of back near shoulder blade. The nerve zap episodes can last 30-60 minutes and come and go. Sometimes I can go for many hours without one and then get a random zap here and there.

Doctor says the ball of foot pain is separate and due to bad foot mechanics (flat feet) as I had a Morton's Neuroma in my foot going back 2 years ago. That the flat feet contributed to my Metatarsal pain on both feet.

Should I chuck it up to anxiety and "wait" it out as the doctor says? I asked about a spinal tap and they do NOT recommend a spinal tap as I don't have any symptoms that would justify getting a spinal tap.

Have you taken any medication for anxiety? Unfortunately i think the only thing you can do is wait. my right hand started twitching like that years ago..then it was a shake...but then i also have back problems where its hard to tell if its from the neurological diagnosis or the back problems. the good news for you is that you have a doc by your side who will remain up to date. positive thoughts and best wishes!!!

I would look at low magnesium.... this is the most common culprit for twitching muscles.

If your twitching and other symptoms are worse when you are hungry, then low blood sugar may be the culprit. These are the two most common triggers for muscle problems.

This is good news for you though, that your brain MRI was unremarkable. Try to focus on that positive result.

Thanks! That's what my doctor said, focus on the positive. I am going through some rough things in my life and I have been really stressed and anxious. After months of anxiety and stress, my symptoms started.

I had my magnesium checked and it was 2.0 (range 1.7 - 2.4). Should I increase my intake?

Magnesium tests are really only valid for very very low levels or very high ones. The mid range does not show much, and does not correlate well to what magnesium should be doing in the cells.

I'd try the Epsom Lotion by Morton's to start. It is really good and works on swelling and pain. It absorbs quickly and will work systemically as well as on the target area.

It is conveniently sold at WalMart for $5.98 for 8 oz. Apply about a quarter's diameter to the target area. A little goes a long way.

I use it on my hands, wrists and inner arms for absorption. It has helped remarkably to lower my high blood pressure too. Once a day is about all you'll need. Soaking in a tub with epsom salts is also relaxing and helps. About 6 -8 ounces in a bathtub and use lukewarm water. Soak about 1/2 hr.

People under stress tend to crave carbs. Try to control that because the insulin spikes and makes stress symptoms worse in the body.

So the magnesium can be absorbed through the skin by the salts? I was not aware of that.

I just got back from WalMart and got the Epson lotion and also the Epson bath salts. Thanks for the advice!

I found that using the Epsom lotion reduced my need for high blood pressure medication dramatically.

I went from 3 strong drugs to one small dose of beta blocker.
(this was after my severe drug reaction to lisinopril).

If you take medication for high blood pressure, check yourself often, within the first week. If you notice this same effect discuss with your doctor, any dose changes. My doctor was really surprised at this simple result. I kept a log for 3 months, in fact of my blood pressures 3 x a day.

I think that the Epsom lotion also improves blood flow to the hands and feet. It is also taking down some of my swollen lymph nodes in my neck.

Koi13,

Sorry to hear that life is hard for you right now. I had parasthesia symptoms explode about 4 years ago when I was taking care of my mom who was dying from brain cancer. Stress can produce some very odd symptoms! I think the best advice I can offer is self-care--healthy diet with supplements, enough water, sleep & exercise. The hardest part is letting time pass to see what your symptoms will do, and keeping health anxiety in check. But focusing on self-care and a negative MRI is the best idea. Take care!

THANKS!

Doc says stress & anxiety can cause muscle twitching, tingling, nerve zaps and a host of other neurological and other non-neurological symptoms.

i am very skeptical of anxiety and stress as being the cause of the symptoms you describe. Stress and anxiety can definitely make your symptoms worse, but I would not at this point accept that as a cause. I would get a second opinion if i were you. in the 12 years now that i have had peripheral neuropathy, have i ever met or read about anyone who had peripheral neuropathy defintively caused by stress and anxiety.