Multiple sclerosis (MS) is an autoimmune disorder of the central nervous system which usually presents as ‘a relapsing-remitting disease that, over years, typically leads to a progressive phase of permanent and increasing disability (secondary progressive disease)’.

It can manifest very differently between different patients, with some experiencing progressive symptoms from the outset – with no relapses and remissions – and others seeing no significant disability for many years.

Physical symptoms can include vision and balance problems, dizziness and fatigue, and stiffness and spasms in the joints and muscles. It can also affect both bladder and bowel function, speech and swallowing, and cognitive function.

Acupuncture treatment for MS aims to rebalance the body’s natural homeostatic function, promoting physical and emotional wellbeing, offering relief from pain, anxiety and worry. It can also help reduce inflammation and improve physical mobility.

Alexander Technique too can prove life-enhancing, improving mobility in the muscles and joints, helping reduce the swelling caused by inflammation and rewriting old postural habits. An interesting article in MS magazine explores some of the benefits of this particular therapy.

The Multiple Sclerosis Trust is a useful resource if you are looking to find out more and exploring the possibility of complementary therapies to support your experience. In this article, MS nurse Vicki Gutteridge looks at some of the approaches to managing multiple sclerosis in this way and suggests that many MS sufferers may turn to complementary therapies to regain control, ‘reducing the sense of helplessness, hopelessness and engendering hope and control.

‘People with MS are more likely to tackle their condition in an active and problem-focused way. They are more likely to be enquiring risk takers who seek information and strategies in the defence of threat’.