WHAT IS MULTIPLE SCLEROSIS?
Multiple Sclerosis (MS) is a chronic autoimmune disease that affects the central nervous system (CNS), which includes the brain and spinal cord. In MS, the immune system mistakenly attacks the protective covering of nerve fibers called myelin, leading to inflammation and damage. This disrupts the flow of electrical signals between the brain and the rest of the body, resulting in a wide range of neurological symptoms.
The exact cause of MS is still unknown, but it is believed to involve a combination of genetic and environmental factors. MS can affect anyone, but it is more commonly diagnosed in young adults, typically between the ages of 20 and 40. Symptoms vary widely and can include fatigue, muscle weakness, balance problems, numbness or tingling, difficulties with coordination and walking, cognitive changes, and visual disturbances.
MS is a complex condition with different forms, including relapsing-remitting MS (RRMS), primary progressive MS (PPMS), secondary progressive MS (SPMS), and progressive-relapsing MS (PRMS).
Various treatment options are available to manage symptoms, slow disease progression, and improve quality of life. These may include disease-modifying therapies and symptom management medications (from specialists), but we can offer complimentary care at Absolute Health & Wellness. From naturopathy, physical therapy, proper management, support, and ongoing care can help individuals with MS live fulfilling lives while effectively managing the challenges associated with the condition.
WHO SHOULD I SEE AT ABSOLUTE HEALTH AND WELLNESS?
At Absolute Health & Wellness, we recommend starting with the Naturopath. Naturopathy is an evidence based form of medicine, where we focus on physiology to identify how lifestyle (diet, exercise, stress management, sleep) and natural compounds (vitamins, herbs, minerals) can help with disease progression.
Physiotherapy, chiropractic, osteopathy and massage therapy may be helpful in some combination. From balance and gait problems, pain, weakness and any associated findings, these healthcare providers can help!
HOW WE COMMONLY TREAT MULTIPLE SCLEROSIS
- Supplements (Herbs, Vitamins, Minerals): many natural substances have strong human research showing they can be effective in treating multiple sclerosis, even in conjunction with pharmaceutical medications
- Lifestyle and Behavior Modification: the things we do everyday such as diet/gut health, exercise and sleep have huge impacts on our health, including our immune system
- Acupuncture: for pain management, circulation and other benefits in autoimmune disease, acupuncture may be recommended.
- Physical Medicine: when there is joint involvement, muscular pains or any neurological involvement, our team of physios, chiros, osteos and massage therapists can have roles to play in assessment and treatment.
Every person is different. Even two people with multiple sclerosis can present differently, so we always take an individualized approach to treating your autoimmune disease.
