Chiropractic Care Helps Multiple Sclerosis Patient

According to a recent case study published in the Journal of Pediatric, Maternal, & Family Health, a 51-year old female patient suffering from Multiple Sclerosis (MS) and gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), among other complaints, sought chiropractic care. She had previously been treated by a number of other health care professionals, including a neurologist and gastrointestinal specialist.

"Chiropractic care is often thought of only in terms of relief from a back or neck injury,” said Dr. Long, a Tacoma-based chiropractor who strives to keep current with the latest research and developments in health and wellness.

"But the truth is that case studies suggest many different health problems may respond to a regular program of chiropractic care."

MS is a highly debilitating disease of the central nervous system and is caused by a number of factors. It is diagnosed through a series of tests conducted by medical professionals. There is no known cure for the condition.

This particular patient was examined by her team of chiropractors using an instrument known as the Insight Subluxation Station. They detected the presence of vertebral subluxations in the cervical, thoracic, and lumbar regions.

“A subluxation is a misalignment of the spine that disturbs normal nervous system function,” said Dr. Long. “Many chiropractors, including myself, have non-intrusive technology allowing them to conduct Surface Electromyography (sEMG) and thermal imaging tests to assist in locating where such conditions exist.”

The patient was seen for a total of 105 chiropractic sessions, at the time of the case study report, starting with three visits per week and decreasing to one visit per week. SEMG and thermal tests, using the Insight Subluxation Station, were conducted at various points in the course of care to monitor results. Her doctors also introduced a special diet to reduce inflammation in the body and stress-relieving exercises.

After just 12 chiropractic sessions, the patient reported a lessening of pain

throughout her body and increased mobility. Her symptoms continued to show improvement during her chiropractic care, and she was able to discontinue the use of some of her medications.

“There are certainly no guarantees with any course of care,” said Long. “But we see, from time to time, individual case studies that give rise to hope for many. Positive results for MS sufferers through chiropractic care have been reported in case studies since the early 1990's, but we must always keep in mind that every case depends on the specific factors associated with that case."

Anyone wishing more information may contact Dr. Long, whose office is located at 4902 Tacoma Mall Blvd., Tacoma, WA (telephone 253-473-0300).