Natural and Alternative Multiple Sclerosis (MS) Treatment Options

Multiple Sclerosis is a disease of the central nervous system that is characterized by the progressive breakdown in communication between the brain and the rest of the body. MS is most likely the result of an auto immune abnormality, which causes the body to attack myelin, a fatty substance that covers and insulates the nerve cell fibers in the brain and spinal cord. Myelin aids in the smooth, efficient transmission of messages between the brain and spinal cord, and the rest of the body. When it becomes damaged or lost, the messages are delayed or become blocked, leading to reduced function in affected areas.
Early symptoms of MS typically present between ages 20 and 40, and include prickling sensation or numbness in the extremities (paresthesia), impaired vision, and coordination problems. As the disease progresses, other symptoms may include muscle weakness, impaired balance, difficulty concentrating, impaired judgment, urinary incontinence, constipation, vertigo, tremor, and others. These symptoms occur in episodes, which vary in duration and severity, and are separated by periods of remission.
Below are alternative and natural treatment options for multiple sclerosis (MS). Within this section you will find commonly used acupuncture and acupressure points, appropriate herbal formulas and a variety of information from Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) and Complementary and Alternative Medicine (CAM) perspectives to aid in the treatment of MS.