Multiple Sclerosis (MS) is an autoimmune disease that targets the central nervous system. There are different treatment options for MS, and chiropractic care is one of those treatments available.

What Is Multiple Sclerosis?

Multiple Sclerosis

Multiple Sclerosis is a disease wherein the body’s immune system attacks the nerve fibers in the central nervous system. The central nervous system (CNS) is made up of optic nerves, the spinal cord and the brain.

Myelin, a fatty substance around the nerve fiber that helps in protecting the nerves, can be destroyed by the immune system. Scar tissue (sclerosis) is formed when the myelin is damaged. This prevents normal communication between the CNS and other parts of the body.

Currently, the cause of MS is not known, but it is believed to be due to childhood infections, environmental influences, and/or genetic factors. MS is mostly found in women 20 to 50 years old. However, multiple sclerosis is a disease that can affect almost anyone.

Symptoms Of Multiple Sclerosis

The symptoms presented by MS can interfere with the daily activities of individuals who have the disease. There is no cure for MS at the moment, but chiropractic care is one of the many treatment options for people who seek some relief. 

The symptoms of MS vary from one person to the other. However, the most common symptom of multiple sclerosis is fatigue which affects about 80% of people with this disease.

Common Symptoms Of Multiple Sclerosis:

  • Cognitive changes
        
  • Depression
        
  • Vertigo or dizziness
        
  • Emotional changes
        
  • Fatigue
        
  • Heat sensitivity
        
  • Bowel or bladder problems
        
  • Vision problems
        
  • Sexual problems
        
  • Tingling or numbness

Less Common Symptoms Of Multiple Sclerosis:

  • Breathing problems
        
  • Hearing loss
        
  • Headaches
        
  • Seizures
        
  • Itching
        
  • Speech disorders
        
  • Swallowing problems

Chiropractic Treatment For Multiple Sclerosis

Chiropractic Treatment For Multiple Sclerosis

Some people treat MS with various drugs. Side effects may include seizures, altered liver function, immune suppression, shortness of breath, and/or drowsiness. An alternative option to medication for treating MS is chiropractic care.

Although chiropractic care has not been concluded to be a method that manages the symptoms of MS, studies have shown that it provides substantial relief to patients none-the-less. The relief comes mostly after chiropractic adjustments which help improve the proper functioning of the affected body parts.

Chiropractic treatment relieves nerve pressure, allowing messages to be passed from the central nervous system to the body and vice versa. Although not a cure for MS, chiropractic care can help people who have it feel better, thereby improving their overall quality of life. It’s a safe and natural way to manage MS by focusing on spinal health. 

Conclusion

Chiropractic care can treat some of the physical symptoms of Multiple Sclerosis. If you or someone you know suffers from MS, call Thrive Health Center at 904-683-9397 to make an appointment to be seen at our office in Jacksonville, Florida.