Living with multiple sclerosis (MS) can be like navigating through complex maze filled with lots of turns and twists. Challenges that affect different aspects of life leading to fatigue, muscle weakness and other cognitive difficulties. For example, a blooming vibrant artist Bhagya in her late 30s, diagnosed with MS dimmed her creative spark. Frustrated by the limitations imposed by her condition, she discovered a holistic approach that resonated with her desire for balance and wellness - ACUPUNCTURE, offers a holistic framework that emphasis in balancing the internal energies and body’s homeostasis .

OVERVIEW OF MULTIPLE SCLEROSIS – The most common neurological condition in the northern hemisphere. The pathology consists of partial destruction of myelin sheaths around the spinal cord, brain and optic nerves. The lesions are disseminated at intervals causing varied symptoms depending on the location. according to TCM, MS is a type of atrophy syndrome. In young people initially presents with retrobulbar neuritis causing blurred vision whereas in older people presents with weakness of leg.

THE TCM PERSPECTIVE ON MS: Phlegm, Dampness and Heat

In my consultation, frequently used terms are the dampness, heat and phlegm. In TCM, health is viewed as a harmonious balance of yin-yang, deficiency and excessive of Qi and the other body fluids.  When the harmony is disturbed then arises the various symptoms manifesting as pathological conditions.

PHLEGM: It’s considered as a pathological substance in TCM resulting from obstruction of Qi and obstruction of blood. In MS presented as the following:

• Neurological symptoms- blockages caused by phlegm can lead to numbness, weakness, imbalance and coordination issues.
• It clouds the mind causing difficulty in concentration, memory and mood in association with wind.
• DAMPNESS: Refers to the moisture in the body creates sluggishness which impairs the spleen ability to transform and transport fluids leading to accumulation of moisture caused primarily by dietary habits. In MS presented as following:
• Chronic fatigue- sensation of heaviness in the body, primarily in the lower limbs
• Muscle weakness- manifests as stiffness, lack of strength and difficulty in mobility
• HEAT: excess of yang energy leading to inflammation and exacerbate symptoms. In MS presented as following
• Inflammation- excess heat worsens the symptoms of muscle spasm and pain
• Emotional distress- emotional turmoil generates internal heat complicating the condition.
• PROGRESSION OF MS WITH SIGNS AND SYMPTOMS:

• AIM OF ACUPUNCTURE: One of the broadly used tool to treat MS known for its ability to restore balance, promote healing, and alleviate symptoms.
• Regulation of Qi and blood flow - alleviate the blockages caused by phlegm and dampness thereby reducing the symptoms of numbness and muscle weakness
• Transforming phlegm and dampness - certain acupuncture points can help transform phlegm and dampness in the body by promoting the function of spleen and enhancing digestion leading to reduced moisture and improved cognitive and coordination function.
• Clearing heat- acupoints will help relieving the excess heat leading to reduction in inflammation. Alleviating symptoms of muscle spasm, pain and fatigue.
• Strengthening the spleen and nourishment of Qi: according to TCM, spleen is crucial for transforming food into Qi and blood. Acupuncture nourishes the spleen functionality.
• Emotional stability- promotes relaxation, reduces anxiety, reduces over-thinking, improves sleep pattern. All these helps in reducing the heat in the body. 

In conclusion, MS can feel like a rollercoaster ride designed by someone with flair for drama although acupuncture offers a soothing pit stop to help relief from symptoms. Assume it as body’s way of hitting refresh button, by embracing these ancient techniques you might just realise those annoying peaky symptoms becomes more manageable leaving you feel like super hero ready to take the world.

Dr Gurudatta H K, BNYS, FCRSW, Founder, Anandamaya Wellness Center

Dr Swethini Malar (BNYS), Intern, SVYASA School of Naturopathy & Yoga