Multiple sclerosis (MS) is a disabling autoimmune disease that affects the central nervous system. This disease causes various symptoms such as fatigue, numbness, muscle stiffness, problems with vision, and cognitive dysfunction.

Unfortunately, there are still no known cures for MS, but several treatments can manage symptoms and slow the progress of the disease.

While many conventional drugs can ease MS symptoms, some individuals opt for alternative approaches to manage their symptoms or reduce the risk of relapse.

These alternative therapies can complement conventional treatments that can address the underlying causes of the disease and improve overall quality of life. Here is a rundown of ten alternative approaches to treating multiple sclerosis.

1. Exercise and Physical Therapy

Physical therapy and moderate exercise programs can improve balance, mobility, strength, and flexibility in MS patients while also reducing stress, fatigue, and depression.

Engaging in regular physical activities can also decrease the risks of developing complications related to inactivity such as heart disease, hypertension, or diabetes.

2. Mind-body Therapies

Various mind-body therapies such as yoga, tai chi, meditation, and hypnotherapy can reduce stress and anxiety and provide a calming and relaxing effect.

These alternative therapies can help patients cope with situations that otherwise would trigger stress and manage symptoms such as sleep disorders, depression, or fatigue. For instance, a study conducted in 2015 found that practicing yoga was associated with a reduction in fatigue and depression symptoms in people with MS.

3. Dietary and Nutritional modifications

MS patients may benefit from specific dietary modifications that can help reduce inflammation, improve gut health, and boost the immune system.

Omega-3 fatty acids, for instance, found in fatty fish, chia seeds, flaxseed oil, or walnuts can reduce inflammation in the brain and spinal cord. Foods rich in vitamin D can also reduce the risk of developing MS and slow its progression by controlling inflammation and helping the body repair damaged tissues.

4. Acupuncture

In acupuncture, thin needles are placed strategically on the skin at specific parts of the body to relieve pain, alleviate muscle stiffness, and improve overall health.

The acupuncture technique can stimulate the body’s natural pain-relieving mechanisms, enhance blood flow, and reduce discomfort associated with the disease.

5. Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy

In Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy (HBOT), the patient is placed in a pressurized chamber, and they breathe oxygen-rich air, which promotes healing and enhances tissue repair.

HBOT can improve cognitive function, relieve pain, and improve overall wellbeing in MS patients. However, the Food and Drug Administration has not yet approved the use of HBOT for MS treatment.

6. Cannabis-Based Therapies

Cannabis-based therapies might help alleviate both physical and mental symptoms of MS such as pain, muscle spasm, sleep disorders, bladder dysfunction, and depression.

Cannabis can reduce pain and inflammation by interacting with the body’s endocannabinoid system, which is mainly responsible for the maintenance of homeostasis in the body. However, cannabis use can have side effects such as dizziness, dry mouth, and short-term memory impairment.

7. Massage therapy

Massage therapy can improve circulation, reduce muscle tension, relieve pain and discomfort, and enhance relaxation. Massage therapy might also improve emotional wellbeing and restore the patient’s energy levels.

In a study conducted in 2019, researchers found that massage therapy could reduce fatigue, pain, depression, and anxiety symptoms in MS patients.

8. Ayurveda

Ayurveda is a traditional healing system that uses a combination of herbs, minerals, diet, and yoga practices to treat various health conditions.

Ayurvedic therapy can use specific herbs such as Turmeric, which has anti-inflammatory and immune-modulating properties, to manage symptoms of MS.

9. Chiropractic

Chiropractic treatments’ aim to improve spinal alignment, reduce muscle stiffness and pain, increase mobility, and reduce the risks of relapse in MS patients.

Chiropractic care can use different techniques such as spinal adjustments, massage, or exercise programs to address the disease’s underlying causes and improve overall wellbeing of the patient.

10. Biofeedback

Biofeedback therapy can train the patient’s body to self-regulate various functions such as heart rate, blood pressure, muscle tension, and temperature.

By learning the body’s self-regulatory mechanisms, patients can control symptoms such as fatigue, stress, or pain and improve their overall quality of life. In a study conducted in 2017, researchers found that Biofeedback therapy can alleviate MS-related symptoms such as pain, fatigue, and depression.

Conclusion

Multiple sclerosis can be a highly debilitating disease with varied symptoms that can negatively impact patients’ quality of life.

Alternative therapies like yoga, acupuncture, and massage do not offer a cure, but they can complement conventional treatments, manage symptoms, and improve overall health and wellbeing. It is always essential to involve a medical professional when experimenting with alternative therapies in MS treatment to ensure the safety and effectiveness of the treatment.