Multiple sclerosis is an auto-immune disease in which a person’s immune system attacks the myelin that coats the nerve fibers. The central nervous system is affected (spinal cord, brainstem, and brain). When the myelin is damaged, nerves can become inflamed and the messages that are sent along those nerves can become distorted. The disease often comes in waves, in which a person experiences more symptoms as the myelin damage gets worse. Between waves of multiple sclerosis attacks, patients can recover and regain some of the loss of function that their body experienced during the attack.
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Multiple Sclerosis Symptoms
- Changes in sensation: tingling, numbness, reduced sensitivity
- Neurological problems: cognitive issues, depression, speech issues, mood swings
- Poor Coordination: motor skill problems, ataxia
- Muscular problems: spasms, pronounced reflexes, weakness
- Trouble Swallowing
- Visual problems
Triggers of Multiple Sclerosis
Although multiple sclerosis (MS) is a progressive disease with no known cure, most patients do not experience continuously declining health. They usually go through periods of their MS symptoms getting worse and then getting better. MS has no singular, known cause, but it is believed that genetic and environmental factors can trigger it. Some patients have developed MS after fighting certain viruses, such as Epstein-Barr virus.
Treatments for Multiple Sclerosis
There are a wide range of prescription drug options when it comes to managing symptoms, recovering from attacks, and preventing or prolonging the onset of future attacks. However, all of these medications come with unwanted side effects and are not effective for every individual. One natural treatment option is upper cervical chiropractic care.
Upper cervical chiropractors are specialists who focus their efforts on the top two vertebrae of the spine – the atlas (C1) and axis (C2). These two vertebrae can affect immune system function and also central nervous system function if they are not in proper alignment. How can that be? These vertebrae protect the delicate brainstem, which is part of the central nervous system. If the vertebrae are misaligned, they can put pressure on the brainstem. This can result in irritation, inflammation, pain, and a disruption of signals traveling from the spinal cord to the brain. By using our gentle technique, we can encourage the vertebrae to shift back to their correct alignment. This takes stress off of the central nervous system and enables the body as a whole to function better. If you are interested in how upper cervical chiropractic care could help your specific condition, give us a call today.
To schedule a complimentary NUCCA consultation call 916-973-0623 on click the button below.
If you are outside of the Sacramento area you can find an Upper Cervical Doctor near you at www.uppercervicalawareness.com.