i've been researching myoclonus for my own benefit and i found a pretty informative site: http://www.ninds.nih.gov/disorders/m..._myoclonus.htm.

"Reticular reflex myoclonus: is thought to be a type of generalized epilepsy that originates in the brainstem, the part of the brain that connects to the spinal cord and controls vital functions such as breathing and heartbeat. Myoclonic jerks usually affect the whole body, with muscles on both sides of the body affected simultaneously. In some people, myoclonic jerks occur in only a part of the body, such as the legs, with all the muscles in that part being involved in each jerk. Reticular reflex myoclonus can be triggered by either a voluntary movement or an external stimulus."

just curious, you said you talked to your dr. and she ruled out myoclonus, but how did she rule it out in the first place? there are several different types mentioned on the above site.

hope this helps. it has helped me know what to ask the next time i see my dr.

angie

thanks Sandel- info on RLS & PLM -I felt are reason for spasms & jerking . Sleep Labs say I have no "sleep disorders" but my body & experience say otherwise. I've literally kicked my partner out of bed; jerks awaken , when I do begin to fall asleep. Feel like I "fight" these demons all nite.
This, with pain, creates vicious cycles of Fatigue due to sleep debt.

Have tried many anti-spasmodic meds; Benzo's most helpful --esp. Valium. A friend w/ this problem & complex Hx of nerve pain, suggested Marinol --also helps w/ Pain.
Another says she has "body wide RLS"-- that she controls w/ MSM, magesium , B12 , B complex, Omega 's from fish oil & other vitamins & supplements. I'm use now-- prefer Flax seed for Omega's.

I tried & couldn't tolerate Leva/Dopa, or many Anti-convulsants. Just beginning Keppra.

Everyone who experience this states how maddening, and issues w/ loss of sleep, exacerbates pain cycles.

Interesting article on Sleep Interruption adding to chronic & spontaneous pain
http://www.medpagetoday.com/Pulmonar...orders/tb/5371


Good Luck to all finding things that help.