Multiple Sclerosis, also referred to as MS, is a condition of the central nervous system. It’s an autoimmune disease that affects myelin and nerve tissue, the impact of which is reduced communication between the brain and parts of the body. While there is no cure for MS, treatment is focused on the relief of symptoms and preventing relapses from occurring.

Most people with MS are prescribed medications to help, and many also attend regular physical therapy sessions to help regain strength and keep their bodies strong. These therapies have proven to be very effective in managing MS.

But, there are times when you want a more natural approach.

Medications don’t come without their own risk of side effects, and other traditional therapies can feel burdensome, especially when you just want to feel normal again. This is where natural therapies can help.

There are natural treatments for MS that can help relieve pain and lead you down the path to feeling more like yourself again. I would like to take this opportunity to talk about a few of the most effective, natural therapies for MS pain relief. But, before I do that, I also want to say that you shouldn’t go off on your own and experiment with natural remedies without discussing your thoughts with your physician.

I know not every doctor is on board with natural therapies, but you need to at least be made aware of what to avoid in the realm of natural care. The remedies that I am presenting to you here are generally well accepted and pose no risk to your health. Still, it’s important to have this conversation with your doctor.

Massage Therapy

Massage therapy can help to relieve some of the stress and physical symptoms of MS. While massage therapy can provide physical relief, one of the best reasons for considering it is emotional impact.

Depression, stress and anxiety are common for people with MS. Massage therapy can help ease these symptoms by helping you relax and de-stress. Plus, it’s a way of pampering yourself and taking care of your body.

If you’re considering massage therapy, make sure that you do a little research first. Talk to therapists and ask about their credentials. Also, seek out someone that has experience working with MS patients if possible.

Acupuncture

Acupuncture, a form of traditional Chinese medicine, involves stimulating specific spots on the body to increase the flow of energy. This is typically done through inserting small, thin needles along designated pathways.

MS patients have reported a reduction in pain, tingling, spasticity, bladder control and depression after acupuncture treatment. There is no evidence that acupuncture can slow the progression of MS, but patients often feel a generalized sense of wellbeing and reduced pain.

Just remember that it’s crucial to seek treatment only from licensed practitioners with a solid reputation, and always disclose your health information before treatment.

Get Tested for Food Allergies and Adjust Your Diet

It’s estimated that 15 million Americans have food allergies. In reality, that number could be much higher. Dairy, wheat and nuts are some of the top food based allergens. The problem is that food allergies aren’t always overly obvious, especially when you’re suffering from chronic health conditions, like MS.

Allergy symptoms can mimic many of the symptoms of MS. If you do have a food allergy, this can mean that your symptoms are more severe and longer lasting than they need to be. Simple diet modifications that eliminate trigger foods can improve MS related pain

Supplements to Fight Fatigue and Pain

If you haven’t already discussed supplement options with your doctor, make an appointment to do so immediately. Supplements like vitamin D, vitamin B 12, probiotics, CoQ 10, fish oil and green tea extract can all help minimize the effect of MS on your body.

Through reducing inflammation and the severity of your symptoms, the right combinations of supplements can make MS related pain something you can live with.

Living with MS can leave you feeling out of control, but it doesn’t need to be that way. There are things you can do, like the natural therapies mentioned here, that will help you regain control of your health and put the pain of MS on the backburner, so you can live your best life.

About the Author:

Chris Saviano is responsible for Business Development and Sales at PGM Billing. When not leading back office service operations, he enjoys spending time with his son and exploring the future of natural health remedies.