Stiff Person Syndrome (SPS)

Stiff person syndrome is a rare condition that affects the muscles and causes annoying symptoms, and although it can’t be cured, it can be managed.

Stiff person syndrome

Stiff person syndrome (SPS) is a very rare chronic condition that affects the muscles due to a neurological issue.

SPS affects females twice as much as males, and it usually starts between the ages of 20 and 60, most often in the 30s.

Causes and risk factors of stiff person syndrome

• It’s not completely clear why stiff-person syndrome occurs, but it’s thought that it’s an autoimmune disorder, which means that the immune system attacks healthy cells without a reason.
• The risk of SPS increases due to the following factors: type 1 diabetes, celiac disease, vitiligo, pernicious anemia, and autoimmune thyroid disease.

Symptoms of stiff person syndrome

• The two main symptoms of stiff person syndrome are painful muscle spasms and muscle stiffness or rigidity. This condition usually affects the abdomen and trunk, but it can spread to other parts of the body, such as the legs. Symptoms might worsen with time or stay the same for years.
• Symptoms of SPS are triggered with the following factors: stressful events, physical stimulation or touch, changes in the temperature, and loud or unexpected noise.
• Stiff-person syndrome can lead to anxiety or agoraphobia (phobia of open or crowded places).

Diagnosis of stiff person syndrome

• Physical exam.
• Neurological exam.

Treatment of stiff person syndrome

• There isn’t a cure for stiff person syndrome, but the symptoms can be managed by:
• Medications
• Other therapies, such as physical therapy, occupational therapy, heat therapy, water therapy, massages, and acupuncture.