baclofen:burning sensation in nerves/muscles

[jujub65]

Just diagnosed with cervical dystonia and given baclofen 10mgx3 daily. I have been taking it for 1 week now. I am feeling nerve sensations, burning pain deep down all over my neck, shoulders, chest halfway down my arms, throat and it has lit up my somewhat dormant tendonitis in my shoulder joints. My throat feels dry and tight, voice is hoarse and cracking,some slight hand shakiness, foot cramps that I use to get infrequently have become frequent, left foot locked on me while sleeping, left calf muscle twitching, charlie horse in left leg quad for 12 hours -took it to work with me, ouch! It is actually making me tense up MORE in my shoulders trying to "pull in" and stop the burning pain as I want to shrug my shoulders in and up to relieve the pain. I have been using ice packs especially after I work a 10 hr. day (3 days in a row of that is a killer for me!)  Is this baclofen awakening the dystonia in me that has been genetically "quiet" other than the muscular headaches I have been having for 30 years and the knotted muscles in my shoulder blades w/tightness and tenderness? I know step 2 was botox, but I cannot afford it at $4,000 per treatment every 3 months!. I haven't any of my limited insurance benefits left. Please tell me what is happening with this baclofen in treating this dystonia, it is all so new to me. I thought it was just a muscle relaxer, but I am getting new sensations that are reacting like the dystonia symptoms. Also, can I take a pain killer to numb these nerves/pain?? How about an analgesic ointment or patch? Please help me before I go crazy. Dr. has once again drugged me and left me in the dark.- Thanks

[DrKalraMD]

Hi, drugs like amitryptline cause mild sedation and are good for neuralgic pain.

[jujub65]

I see (gabapentin) Neurontin is commonly prescribed with baclofen for cervical dystonia. I have had tramadol before (injection) to abort migraine. It worked very well, but left me sleepy if I remember right. I need to be able to drive and work still. Will either of these drugs allow me to do so? What about my MRI? You read my other post about my MRI and said it was all normal, not to worry. Am I missing something here? I have not been to see my neurologist to discuss anything , yet. I have an appt. on June 13. Thank you for responding to my questions.

[DrKalraMD]

Hi, it is unlikely to be baclofen. What about your MRI report? For the time being you can try tramadol (opioid pain killer) or drugs like gabapentin etc after consultation with your treating doctor.