Multiple Sclerosis & Acupuncture

Multiple sclerosis (MS) is a chronic neurological condition in which the immune system affects the protective covering of nerves within the brain and spinal cord. Because different areas of the nervous system can be affected, symptoms can vary considerably from person to person.

People living with MS may experience fatigue, pain, muscle tightness or spasms, altered sensation, weakness, dizziness, changes in balance, sleep disturbance and other neurological symptoms.

Acupuncture for Multiple Sclerosis

Acupuncture may be used as a complementary therapy alongside conventional medical management of MS, with treatment focused on supporting symptoms rather than treating the underlying disease itself.

Depending on the individual’s presentation, treatment may focus on areas such as pain, muscular tension, fatigue, sleep, altered sensation and nervous system regulation.

Treatment may incorporate body acupuncture, scalp acupuncture or electroacupuncture where appropriate, with the approach adapted to the person’s symptoms, mobility, sensitivity and energy levels.

Supporting the Individual Living with MS

MS can present very differently between individuals and can also change over time. For this reason, acupuncture treatment is adapted according to the symptoms currently affecting the person and their individual treatment goals.

Chinese medicine also considers the broader picture, including energy, sleep, digestion, temperature, pain and other accompanying symptoms, rather than treating every person with MS in the same way.

Acupuncture is intended to work alongside appropriate neurological care, medication, physiotherapy and other rehabilitation therapies, rather than replace them.

If you are living with multiple sclerosis and would like to explore whether acupuncture may be a useful addition to your existing care, please GET IN TOUCH.