Acupuncture For Multiple Sclerosis and can benefit from moxibustion treatment

Multiple Sclerosis (MS) is a complex condition. This chronic disease causes uncomfortable, sometimes debilitating symptoms that can make it difficult to perform everyday tasks.

An unpredictable condition

The exact causes of MS are not entirely understood, and there is currently no cure, though there have been many advances in treatment in recent years. Western medicine considers MS an autoimmune condition that occurs when the immune system attacks the body’s tissues. In the case of MS, the immune system starts attacking and breaking down a substance called myelin, the sheath that surrounds the nerve fibres of the central nervous system. Myelin increases the speed of the transmission of nerve signals.

When myelin becomes “broken” or destroyed, nerve impulses are slowed down, leading to nerve-related problems. When these nerve fibres become damaged, symptoms can result, including:

Blurred vision loss of balancePoor co-ordination slurred speechFatigueMemory problemsNumbness or weakness of
the limbs

The symptoms of MS vary from person to person, can range from minor to severe and can even disappear for a while only to flare up unexpectedly.

Treatment options

Depending upon your symptoms and the disease's progression, your doctor may suggest medications designed to slow the condition and cures for the signs.


TCM is based on Qi's (pronounced “chee”) concept, or vital energy flows through the body in channels called meridians. If Qi becomes stagnant, unbalanced or deficient, symptoms such as those linked to MS can result. This can occur for many reasons, from an inherited constitutional imbalance or illness to stress or an external invader such as wind or dampness.

Your practitioner will work to determine the condition at the root of your symptoms to create a treatment plan. For example, the muscular stiffness and numbness associated with MS are often related to excessive dampness within the meridians or a deficiency in the liver and kidney organ systems.

Based on their diagnosis, your acupuncture practitioner will balance the Qi in the body’s organ systems by manipulating corresponding points on the body with hair-thin acupuncture needles. While acupuncture alone can’t cure MS, it is instrumental in managing symptoms such as pain, muscle spasms and bladder problems.

Self-care for MS

MS can have an impact on every part of your life. To help support your physical and emotional well-being, your practitioner may suggest some of these lifestyle changes and self-care techniques.

• Herbal remedies – Your practitioner may provide herbs or nutritional supplements designed to help relieve symptoms and boost your overall health. Be sure to let your other health care providers know if you take supplements to avoid any potential drug interactions.

• Staying cool- Heat can make symptoms of MS worse. Tepid baths, cool drinks and air conditioning may help make you more comfortable.


• Stress relief- Stress can exacerbate symptoms and cause other health problems, so it’s essential to keep your stress levels in check. Meditation or deep-breathing techniques can help you stay calm and relaxed. Massage is another excellent way to help relieve stress and loosen tense muscles. If your anxiety becomes overwhelming, consider talking to a professional.
