INFOGRAPHICMS

4 Approaches That May Boost Your MS Treatment

July 14, 2023
Complementary Therapies for Multiple Sclerosis Up to 70% of people who have multiple sclerosis (MS) use some sort of complementary and alternative medicine (CAM). Complementary therapy is used along with a prescribed treatment plan to help reduce symptoms. Alternative therapy is when these approaches are used in place of a prescribed treatment plan. When you’re managing a chronic condition like MS, your best bet is to take the complementary approach—adding to your overall MS treatment and management plan. 4 Common Complementary Therapies: What to Know Acupuncture What is it? Acupuncture is a form of traditional Chinese medicine. It involves inserting thin needles into specific points along the body to encourage energy flow. Does it work? Research suggests that for some people, acupuncture may help improve symptoms like: Fatigue Pain Impaired gait Cognitive issues Bladder issues How to start: If you want to try acupuncture, first talk to your doctor. With their approval, search for a licensed acupuncturist through sources such as the American Academy of Medical Acupuncture. Look for someone who has experience working with people with health conditions like MS. Contact your insurance company to see if you have coverage for acupuncture. Massage What is it? Massage is a hands-on technique to help relax the muscles and relieve muscle tension. Does it work? Studies of people with MS suggest that for some people, massage may help improve: MS pain Fatigue Quality of life How to start: If your doctor gives you the green light to try massage, search for a qualified massage therapist near you in the American Massage Therapy Association’s directory. Cannabis What is it? Cannabis is another name for medical marijuana. It’s increasingly prescribed for people with conditions that can cause nausea, pain, and other symptoms. Does it work? Small studies suggest cannabis may help some people with MS with: Pain Spasticity Bladder issues Cannabis also comes with potential side effects that may worsen some MS symptoms, like: Cognitive issues such as with memory and concentration Issues with balance and coordination How to start: If you’re interested in trying cannabis to help with MS, check to see if cannabis is legal in your area. Talk to your doctor about whether cannabis could help your symptoms and the best ways to get legal access in your state. Consider options that aren’t inhaled, which can harm your lungs. Yoga What is it? Yoga is a mind-body therapy that incorporates breath work, meditation, and postures or poses. Does it work? A 2020 review suggests that yoga may help reduce MS symptoms like: Depression Pain Fatigue Muscle weakness and other motor difficulties Balance issues Bladder issues Sexual issues Yoga may also improve overall mental and physical health. How to start: Find a qualified, certified yoga instructor who has experience working with people with MS. They’ll be able to recommend modifications as needed. You can also find instructional yoga videos for people with MS online. Should You Try a Complementary Therapy? Before you try a CAM approach, ask yourself these questions to help determine whether it’s right for you. Is there any evidence that this type of therapy may help with my specific MS symptoms? Will it fit into my lifestyle and schedule? What are the potential risks? Is this product regulated? How much does it cost? Can I find a qualified provider near me? Have I gotten my doctor’s approval to try it? Sources: Braley, T. et al. (2020) Cannabinoid use among Americans with MS: Current trends and gaps in knowledge. Multiple Sclerosis Journal – Experimental, Translational and Clinical. Feige, J. et al. (2020) Vitamin D supplementation in multiple sclerosis: A critical analysis of potentials and threats. Nutrients. Kes, V.B. et al. (2013) The role of complementary and alternative medicine in therapy of multiple sclerosis. Acta Clinica Croatica. Khodaie, F. et al. (2022) Acupuncture for multiple sclerosis: A literature review. Multiple Sclerosis and Related Disorders. Multiple Sclerosis Society. (2015) Complementary and alternative medicine (CAMs). National Center for Complementary and Integrative Health. (2021) Complementary, Alternative, or Integrative Health: What’s In a Name? National Multiple Sclerosis Society Salarvand, S. et al. (2021) Effectiveness of massage therapy on fatigue and pain in patients with multiple sclerosis: A systematic review and meta-analysis. Multiple Sclerosis Journal – Experimental, Translational and Clinical. Sintzel, M.B. et al. (2017) Vitamin D and multiple sclerosis: A comprehensive review. Neurology and Therapy. Thakur, P. et al. (2020) Yoga as an intervention to manage multiple sclerosis symptoms. Journal of Ayurveda and Integrative Medicine.