When we’re talking about alternative treatments we’re talking about any intervention or medical treatment that is not scientifically documented or identified as effective or safe for a specific condition.

The alternative treatments encompass a variety of disciplines that range from exercise, to diet to mental conditioning to lifestyle changes.

There are also complementary therapies, aka alternative therapies used in addition to traditional treatments.
For MS patients, the following alternative therapies are recommended:

-  Exercise. Yoga, tai chi, and other similar exercises can lower stress, help one be more relaxed, while at the same time give the sufferer increased energy, flexibility and balance.

- Positive attitude: this doesn’t cure MS, but it helps reduce stress and makes you feel better.

- Diet is extremely important for people with MS. More information about a well-balanced MS diet can be provided by your doctor.

There are also a number of complementary/alternative options of treatment for MS:

-    Massage. This helps people with MS relax, and it reduces stress and depression ( which are known to exacerbate the diseases’ symptoms)

-    Acupuncture. There are MS patients who report that acupuncture provides relief of symptoms like muscle spasms, pain or bladder control problems.

-    Linoleic acid – found in safflower oil and sunflower seeds, taking a supplement of this can slightly improve MS symptoms.

-    Marijuana.  This is highly controversial, but people with MS claim that marijuana helps relieve spasticity and other MS-related symptoms.

The alternative treatments can be helpful for people with MS, but! Some treatments can be costly, ineffective and even dangerous. Before going head first, you should evaluate your options and learn more about the alternative/complementary treatment. The following questions should be answered:

-    What’s the treatment?
-    What does it involve?
-    How it works?
-    Are there risks?
-    Are there side effects?
-    Is it effective?
-    How much does it cost?

Once all the above questions are answered, you will be able to decide if you still want to try that alternative treatment, and if the benefits outweigh the risks.

It’s always a good idea to talk with other MS patients who used the therapy.  There are plenty of resources and information you can find online, and also chat rooms and forums. Use these with confidence, as you’ll know exactly what to expect from the therapy, and maybe even get some recommendations!

You should also talk with your doctor and ask his or her opinion on the alternative therapy.  You should also check if the alternative treatment doesn’t interfere with your current treatment scheme.

Also, make sure to do some research on the provider. You will want a reliable one. It is also recommended to know the exact costs and duration – you won’t want to waste money or start therapies you can’t afford.

These being said, there is a world of alternative and complementary therapies out there, and you can try them all or none. It depends entirely on you, and you shouldn’t make a decision because of others.