Multiple Sclerosis (MS)?

What is multiple sclerosis (MS)?

Multiple sclerosis (MS) is a chronic illness that affects your central nervous system. Your nerve cells are surrounded by a protective layer called myelin. Myelin protects the nerve fibers and helps them conduct electrical signals quickly and efficiently.

In MS, your immune system mistakenly attacks the myelin sheath, causing inflammation and damage. This damage disrupts the flow of information within the brain, and between the brain and body. The severity and specific symptoms of MS vary widely from person to person, depending on which nerve fibers are affected.

Symptoms of MS

• Numbness or weakness in one or more limbs.
• Tingling or pain in parts of your body.
• Electric-shock sensations that occur with certain neck movements (Lhermitte sign).
• Tremor, lack of coordination, or unsteady gait.
• Vision problems, such as partial or complete loss of vision, or prolonged double vision.
• Fatigue and dizziness.

How Massage and Acupuncture Can Help

While there is no cure for MS, treatments can help speed recovery from attacks, modify the course of the disease, and manage symptoms.

Massage therapy can help reduce muscle spasticity, relieve pain, and improve circulation. It also promotes relaxation, which can help combat the severe fatigue often associated with MS.

Acupuncture is frequently used by people with MS to help manage symptoms such as pain, spasticity, numbness, and tingling. It may also help with bladder control issues and sleep disturbances.