Stiff Person’s Syndrome is an autoimmune movement disorder, affecting the central nervous system. causes stiffness in the trunk and limbs, and other muscles. It also causes increased sensitivity to various stimuli (emotional distress, noise, touch, etc.), all of which can lead to muscle spasms. Muscle spasms may be triggered by stimuli, or nothing at all. |
SYMPTOMS OF THIS DISEASE
- Pain
- Muscle Stiffness
- Aching Discomfort
- Muscle Spasms that are painful
OUR DISEASE REPRESENTATIVES

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SPECIALISTS
- Neurologist
BLOOD TESTS
- Patient History
- Clinical Evaluation
- Screening Tests to detect antibodies against GAD-65 and amphiphysin
- Electromyography (EMG)
MEDICATIONS
- IVig
- Anti-Anxiety Drugs
- Muscle Relaxants
- Anti-Convulsants
- Gabapentin
- Tiagabine
- Pain Relievers
- Diazepam
TREATMENT
People with SPS respond to high doses of diazepam and several anti-convulsants, gabapentin and tiagabine. A recent study funded by the NINDS demonstrated the effectiveness of intravenous immunoglobulin (IVIg) treatment in reducing stiffness and lowering sensitivity to noise, touch, and stress in people with SPS. (via NIH)
AUTOIMMUNE RESOURCES
Here are some great websites, authors, podcasts and other resources to help you navigate your Autoimmune Disease.
AUTOIMMUNE STORIES
These are the women that have shared their autoimmune journey with us. Please take a moment to read some of their nrave, honest and revealing stories about their diagnosis, successes, hardships and their lives.