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Alternative Therapies

The nerves of the central nervous system are sheathed in myelin, a substance that assists in nerve function. Multiple sclerosis (MS) is an incurable disease of the central nervous system that inflames the myelin and causes plaques or lesions to appear. The brain, spinal cord and optic nerves can be affected. The two principle aims of drug therapy for MS are to ease specific symptoms and hamper the progression of disease by shortening the attacks. The types of drugs used in treatment depend on a number of factors, including the form of MS a person has.

There is a range of alternative therapies that can complement a person's medical treatment by helping to ease symptoms. However, caution should be exercised. Some treatments are beneficial, but others are simply quackery and a waste of time and money. Be advised by your doctor and other health care providers.

Acupuncture

Acupuncture is a therapy of traditional Chinese medicine. Slender needles are inserted into the skin at particular points and, according to the theory, help to balance chi energy. While Western science can't explain how acupuncture works, numerous studies have found it is an effective treatment for a host of conditions. Acupuncture can help ease MS-related pain and reduce the severity of muscle spasms.

"There is no evidence to suggest that acupuncture has an effect on the disease process or symptom management. However, acupunture may serve a purpose for the relief of pain and muscle spasm."

Source - Therapeutic Claims in Multiple Sclerosis William A Sibley MD. 4th Edition, International Multiple Sclerosis Societies, 1996.

Massage

There are various types of massage including Shiatsu, Swedish massage and acupressure. The skin is the largest organ of the body and is packed with nerve endings that respond to touch. Massage works by soothing the skin and relaxing tense muscles. Regular massages can help a person with MS to better manage muscle pain.

Yoga

There are many different varieties of yoga, but each one relies on structured poses (asanas) timed with breathing (prayanama). Yoga can help relieve stress, because concentrating on the postures and breathing acts as a powerful form of meditation. The gentle sustained stretches also help to improve flexibility and reduce muscle stiffness.

"Exercise and relaxation can be a valuable and enjoyable therapy for people with MS. Yoga and meditation can improve the quality of life for people with MS, producing better social and physical functioning. There are many organisations which run courses specially for people with physical disabilities. Contact your local MS Society for appropriate recommendations and referrals."

Source - Therapeutic Claims in Multiple Sclerosis William A Sibley MD. 4th Edition, International Multiple Sclerosis Societies, 1996

Chiropractic

Back pain is a common problem for people with MS, exacerbated by weakened leg muscles. Chiropractic practice is recognised as one of the most effective treatments for back pain and injury. The basic principle of chiropractic is that spinal manipulation can help musculoskeletal problems, such as back pain, as well as improving a person's general state of health.

Meditation

Meditation is the deliberate clearing of one's mind in order to promote a sense of calm and heightened awareness. During meditation, the brain produces alpha waves. This brain state has been found to promote relaxation of the entire nervous system. Meditation is a powerful stress management therapy.

Evening primrose oil and fish oil supplements

Some studies suggest that evening primrose oil and fish oil supplements can measurably reduce the severity and length of an MS attack. However, these supplements don't seem to influence the frequency of attacks.

"Fatty Acids: Several clinical trials have shown that dietary supplementation with polyunsaturated fatty acids (e.g. evening primrose oil) and fattyacids of fish oil appears to exert a modest effect in slowing progression and reducing the severity and duration of MS exacerbations without affecting their frequency."

Source - Therapeutic Claims in Multiple Sclerosis William A Sibley MD. 4th Edition, International Multiple Sclerosis Societies, 1996.

Dubious therapies

The following alternative therapies, which are alleged to help people with MS, have been shown through clinical testing to be ineffective:

Replacing mercury dental fillings - mercury in dental fillings has been incorrectly blamed for causing MS. This claim was made because mercury poisoning affects the brain and can cause symptoms similar to MS, such as muscle tremors.

Hyperbaric oxygen therapy - this means inhaling oxygen under pressure. Studies around the world have found that hyperbaric oxygen therapy has no effect on either MS symptoms or disease progression.

Vitamin supplements - high doses of vitamin or mineral supplements have no demonstrable influence on MS.

"Adequate intake of vitamins is advised in all patients with MS, but there appears no scientific proof that supplementary doses of vitamins, or megavitamin therapy, alone or in combination, favourably affect the course of the disease."

Source - Therapeutic Claims in Multiple Sclerosis William A Sibley MD. 4th Edition, International Multiple Sclerosis Societies, 1996.

Special diets - there is no evidence that dietary factors contribute to the development of MS. Like anyone else, a person with MS should eat a well-balanced high fibre, low fat diet that includes fresh fruits, vegetables, cereals, lean meats and dairy products.

"There is no credible evidence that MS is due to poor diet or dietary deficiencies. A balanced diet incorporating low-fat and high-fibre is recommended for most people and should be part of the general management of the disease for people with MS. Within this framework, diets such as Swank's low-fat diet and the Kousmine diet are acceptable particularly as the possibility of a partial or incomplete effect has not been excluded. Other diets such as Allergen-free diet; Gluten-free diet; Raw food, Evers diet; McDougal diet; Protein and Fructose restricted diet; Cambridge and other liquid diets; Sucrose and Tobacco-free diets have not been substantiated as having any effect on the course of MS although their proponents cite much personal and individual anecdotal evidence. Many of these diets (and consultations) are expensive. They can alter the normal nutritional balance and may prove unsafe and hazardous to health without medical and professional supervision."

Source - Therapeutic Claims in Multiple Sclerosis William A Sibley MD. 4th Edition, International Multiple Sclerosis Societies, 1996.

Be advised by your doctor

Your health care providers should keep abreast of MS research and let you know when clinically proven new treatments are developed. Remember, there is currently no cure for MS. Be cautious when investigating an alternative therapy and be sceptical of "miracle cure" claims. Always ask your doctor for advice before starting any alternative treatment.

Where to get help

Things to remember

Source - This page has been produced by The Better Health Channel in consultation with The MS Society. © The Better Health Channel 2001. Reproduced with permission. Additional pull-out quotes have been included from: Therapeutic Claims in Multiple Sclerosis William A Sibley MD. 4th Edition, International Multiple Sclerosis Societies, 1996.