I have experienced sensations which match the MS hug descriptions for over 10 years. I assumed they were the result of having reconstructive surgery after a mastectomy about 15 years ago until I talked with someone who had the same procedure and then checked with the surgeon who performed the reconstruction – neither knew what I was talking about. I have a friend who does have MS, and she knew exactly what I meant. I have no other symptoms of MS, though I do have occasional dysphonia (confirmed diagnosis), gastritis with GERD (also confirmed), and take weekly prescribed B12 injections (? of pernicious anemia, but that’s a difficult diagnosis). The girdling/banding sensations have become constant and increasingly uncomfortable; however, when aggravated by certain activities, the sensation is quite painful. Muscle relaxants are of no help. Otherwise it’s rest, pain meds, and NSAIDs. I still work part-time and would be devastated if I had to quit. I don’t know where to go from here, but would welcome any insights or suggestions.