Multiple Sclerosis is currently accepted as an autoimmune disease of the central nervous system and natural management is often ignored. It is thought to be the result of damage to the myelin sheath surrounding the nerves, a protective layer that allows nerves to fire very quickly and produce movement, thought, reaction, etc. The immune system becomes faulty and begins attacking parts of the body that are normal. The more damage that ensues from the immune system, the more scar tissue is replaced around the nerves and the harder it is to send rapid nerve impulses. Depending where the damage forms in the brain, we may see slowed movement, poor coordination, extreme fatigue, weakness, tingling, changes in bladder and bowel control and many more.
The one thing this definition does not explain, is how an individual with MS can be fine one day, and completely debilitated the next. Maybe the legs are affected today, but the arms will be affected tomorrow. And maybe by the weekend, they will be walking perfectly fine with no symptoms at all!
As Naturopathic Doctors, we see the whole body and assess all aspects of the person. Yes, the immune system is overactive in this case, but in our quest for the root cause, we always want to know more! What causes the immune system to change in this way? What factors accelerate this process and how can we prevent it?
Natural Management of Multiple Sclerosis
- Restoring balance to the microbiome: a Naturopathic Doctor will always start with the gut because we believe it is the root of the immune system. Balance isn’t just about taking probiotics, it is also about removing an overgrowth of bad bacteria. ND’s will feed your gut with glutamine, digestive enzymes, oregano oil, and likely a number of herbs to help your body reset and remember how to this work on its own.
- Identifying food allergens: most people have reactions to foods, and almost everyone has even a small reaction to specific foods like gluten. The only way to know is to take out the offending food for a while and allow the digestive tract to heal. Continuing to consume a food allergen will only continue to aggravate the immune system and progress the disease.
- Creating a gentle exercise program: this may include the help of other healthcare professionals in your team, but yes, exercise MUST be part of a plan. Even if it is just walking, or moving the arms in circles, the neurological connections that are created and maintained will get stronger in time.
- Stress management and social support: guided meditations, yoga exercises, progressive relaxation, talk therapy, counselling, colouring books, art and painting, etc. Whatever it is that lowers stress, it is very important in progress and preventing relapse. Social support is very important as individuals with MS can often feel isolated and alone with the loss of their independence. Natural herbal supports can also be used to manage anxiety and depression.
- Acupuncture: very likely the best treatment modality for nerve health and works to increase circulation to nerve endings. Many patients report positive outcomes with numbness and tingling even after the first treatment. This combined with treatments like massage and stretching will continuously improve muscle strength and coordination.
Every person with Multiple Sclerosis needs an ND because every person requires their own treatment plan. Speak to Dr. Krysten about your plan today.