The MS hug is symptom of MS that feels like an uncomfortable, sometimes painful feeling of tightness or pressure, usually around your stomach or chest. The pain or tightness can stretch all around the chest or stomach, or it can be just on one side.

Where is the MS hug located?

The multiple sclerosis (MS) hug, which is also referred to as girdling or banding, is a collection of symptoms caused by spasms in the intercostal muscles. These muscles are located between your ribs, holding your ribs in place and helping you move with flexibility and ease.

Does MS hug hurt when you move?

They hold your rib cage together and help it expand when you move, bend, or breathe. If these muscles have spasms, you feel painful, tightening pressure. The hug is a type of nerve pain. You might hear a doctor call it dysesthesia, which means a sensation that isnt normal.

Does MS hug feel like a contraction?

Some liken the pain to that of a belt or indeed a hug. In my opinion, the belt is far too tight and the hug is entirely unwelcome. It can feel impossible to draw breath and at times leave me unable to move, curled up in foetal position. At times, its often felt like a very intense pregnancy contraction.

Where is MS pain located?

Tightness or stiffness of the muscles, called spasticity, is caused directly by MS. Spasticity, will alter walking and cause pulling on the joints. This can result in pain typically in the ankles, knees, hips and back.