Nearly 1 million people are living in the US with Multiple Sclerosis, often known as MS, an autoimmune disease of the central nervous system. MS is the most common disabling neurological disease of young adults with symptom onset generally occurring between the ages of 20 to 40 years. Symptoms commonly include pain, muscle spasms, muscle weakness, problems with swallowing, vision disturbances, general fatigue, tingling and numbness in muscles. This condition occurs when the patient’s immune system attacks the central nervous system. In MS, the immune system cells that normally protect us from viruses, bacteria, and unhealthy cells mistakenly attack myelin in the central nervous system (brain, optic nerves, and spinal cord).  

 

Living with Multiple Sclerosis (MS) presents a unique set of challenges, from managing pain to combating fatigue. While traditional medical treatments play a crucial role in MS management, acupuncture offers significant symptom relief and improved quality of life. 

 

Here are 7 top benefits of Acupuncture for MS

1. Pain Relief: Acupuncture has been shown to effectively alleviate pain in head, joints, neck and back. By stimulating specific points along the body’s meridians, acupuncture helps release endorphins, the body’s natural painkillers. This can provide significant relief from both musculoskeletal pain and neuropathic pain commonly experienced by individuals with MS. Read more here 
2. Tingling and Numbness: acupuncture encourages blood flow and circulation in the body, thereby diminishing the feeling of numbness and tingling sensations.
3. Fatigue: Fatigue is a pervasive and often debilitating symptom of MS that can profoundly affect quality of life. Acupuncture’s unique  ability to restore balance to the body’s energy systems,  alleviate fatigue and promote feelings of vitality and rejuvenation often leaves patients feeling energized for days after their treatment. 
4. Anxiety & Depression: Acupuncture has become an excellent alternative for people dealing with anxiety and depression. These treatments help to reduce stress hormones such as cortisol, Increase levels of serotonin (the happy hormone), regulate the autonomic nervous system (get out of fight or flight), and calm the mind and promote ultimate relaxation.
5. Treatment of Trigeminal Neuralgia: Trigeminal neuralgia, characterized by intense facial pain, can be debilitating for MS patients. Acupuncture offers a non-invasive and drug-free approach to managing this condition. By targeting acupuncture points related to the trigeminal nerve, acupuncture may help reduce the frequency and severity of trigeminal neuralgia episodes without the use of prescription medications..  Read more here
6. Migraine Headaches: Migraines are often a common side effect  of MS due to the lesions formed in and around the brain.. Acupuncture has emerged as a promising therapy for migraine management, with studies indicating its effectiveness in reducing the frequency, duration, and intensity of migraine attacks. By promoting relaxation, improving blood flow, and modulating neurotransmitter levels, acupuncture offers a holistic approach to migraine relief. Read more here
7. Nerve Pain: Nerve pain, or neuropathy, is a prevalent symptom of MS that can significantly impact daily functioning. Acupuncture targets both the symptoms and underlying mechanisms of neuropathic pain, helping to regulate nerve function, reduce inflammation, and promote tissue repair. This integrative approach can lead to noticeable improvements in nerve pain perception and overall well-being. Read more here

 

Incorporating acupuncture into a comprehensive treatment plan for MS can complement traditional medical interventions, providing patients with additional tools for symptom management and self-care. Many of our patients find they no longer rely on prescription medications for pain management, neuropathy, depression or sleep disturbances once they incorporate acupuncture treatments.

 

Are you living in the Greater Jacksonville area and struggling with the symptoms of Multiple Sclerosis? Don’t let MS dictate your life. At Health Pointe Jacksonville, we’re dedicated to providing personalized and effective care options, including acupuncture, to help manage your MS symptoms. Whether you’re dealing with pain, trigeminal neuralgia, migraines, nerve pain, or fatigue, our team is here to explore how acupuncture can fit into your overall treatment plan.

Take the first step towards a more manageable life with MS.

Call Health Pointe Jacksonville today to schedule a consultation and discover if you are a candidate for care. Let us be your partner in navigating your symptoms with the compassionate and holistic care you deserve.

 

Embrace the possibility of relief and rejuvenation. Contact us now at (904) 448-0046 and start your journey towards a better quality of life with MS.