If you have been diagnosed with MS, you have many more options now, than ever, on how to treat Multiple Sclerosis. Biofeedback takes the old concept of mind-over-body and uses a hi-tech device to allow the patient to see the body’s physiological processes. This includes heart rate, muscle activity, and nervous system activity.
Biofeedback therapy began in the early 1970’s and is now accepted in mainstream medicine. Many insurance companies will cover treatment. During the session, electrodes are attached to target areas of the body. They allow the patient to control the processes that they see on a monitor screen, that are associated with the symptoms they are experiencing – such as pain (ABC News, Aug 2008). It may sound far-fetched to some of us in the western world but it works without a great deal of effort.
Biofeedback is associated with very little side effects that may include dizziness, anxiety, and disorientation. Those who have pacemakers or heart conditions should consult with their physicians before considering Biofeedback Therapy. The same precaution goes out to those patients with severe personality disorders or psychosis.
Biofeedback may help especially for long-term management since conventional medications may trigger severe side effects. These drugs include Interferons, Fingolimod, and Methotrexate which slow the progression of MLS. Steroids are also used to lessen the severity of symptoms. Antidepressants are prescribed for mood and behavior dysfunctions; and muscle spasms are typically treated with Lioresal, tizanidine, or benzodiazepine. Chronic fatigue is further treated with amantadine. (US Library of Medicine, Aug 2010)
The human body is not designed to be overloaded with synthetic drugs for a long period of time. It is important to seek other methods, such as Biofeedback Therapy, to sustain your healing and health.
Tapping Into The Power of The Mind
If you want to know how to treat Multiple Sclerosis, begin by taking a hold of your thoughts. Do you spend more dwelling in the health you’ve lost or the health you stand to gain? It makes a big difference. There is growing research showing that a positive mental state or and an optimistic attitude can help you get back to health more quickly (USA Today, Oct 2004).
Are your ready to make the shift? There comes a point in a patient’s quest for a disease-free living, to make a choice. Will you leave it to the hands of others or will you take ownership of your healing? No doubt that you can’t do it alone, nor should you. The medical and health professionals have treatments in place to manage your condition. In the end, it’s how well you play your part that will make the difference in your well-being.
To find a licensed biofeedback therapist, visit http://healthfinder.gov/docs/doc07988.htm.
