Just wondering, has anyone tried alternative therapies for MG? Are there any? Am posting this as I found massage to work wonders for me, though the effects lasts only for 1-2 days, but it helps tremendously when I'm not on meds!

Hi Connie,

I have thought about alternative therapies, but going to a nauturopath is just so expensive here. I do go to a chiropractor and physiotherapist to keep my back in shape, which helps lots.

Massage is awesome! But I found that if they use a lavender based oil it creates problems for me. I can't use lavender at all which is a shame cuz I love the smell!

I have found that if I get massage at least every two weeks, it helps me keep things in check - unless I have a flare up due to other causes. Even then, it helps as you said Connie, for a day or two.

Becky

I am keeping my fingers crossed...my hubby found a licensed massage therapist that seems very knowledgeable...she has several MS patients that she takes care of. He has scheduled me for one hour massages every week...starting MOnday at 5pm...for awhile...and see how that goes.....I will mention the lotion...is there an oils or stuff that MG patients need to stay away from....I hope this helps relieve stress and helps my muscles....

Does insurance cover this...if I ask the doctor for this? or is it even considered a treatment?

Stephanie

Not to be a downer but massaging muscles has about the same effect as using them. Massaging stimulates the muscles, just like exercise would. I thought massage would be great but when I tried it a few years ago, it made me worse.

Ironically, the only exception to that is when my muscles are so cramped up and go into spasm that I have to have physcial therapy to make it better. But that's about getting kinks out in very specific areas.

It may make you guys feel awesome, and I hope it does. Sorry if I bummed you out. Just do what you want!

Annie

Thanks for contributing everyone!

When I first tried massage recommended by my boss, like Annie mentioned, my whole body was so tensed/tight (as the therapist puts it) that my therapist had to spend a while relaxing them. After the massage, I felt soo tired that I had to rest for 4 days after that. Was a bit scared of massages after that. However, when i went back the 2nd time, told the therapist about it, and he sort of "reduced the dosage" and this time round, I only had to rest for 1-2 days. Needless to say, the third time round, he was able to balance it appropriately and this time round I only had to take a nap after massage. Have been going for it weekly for approx 2 mths and I now feel great after massages. I still need to take naps, but amazingly, it relieves me of some of my symptoms now. I feel great after the naps!

So I do think that finding a great massage therapist who knows exactly what to do or a chiropractor who is able to massage to relax the tight muscles may help. However, do take care to let them know of your condition as well so that they can give the appropriate stimulation and not overdo it.

All the best Stephanie! Your hubby's so sweet! Keep us updated on how the massage went!

I will keep my fingers crossed that it will go well.....I will ask my hubby to pick me up and I will plan on taking a nap after. I never thought about it "working out" my muscles as if I had worked out.....

This MG really sucks! (Excuse my language...but I needed to vent!!)

Hi all,

Stephanie, you asked about oils that are contraindicated in MG and Becky hit it on the head! Lavender has such a relaxing property that even though it is quite a mild and "safe" essential oil it can affect our MG. I find the stimulating oils (mandarin, sweet orange) and woody scents (patchouli and sandalwood) work best with me. Make sure your therapist is aware of your condition and you might consult a qualified aromatherapist first. Annie mentioned that massage might not be a good idea and I agree that in some massage can exacerbate symptoms. Deep tissue/swedish massages might NOT be a good place to start, if you are interested in massage think about hot stones, aromatherapy massage or just say you only want light touch.

I personally LOVE massages and force my wonderful husband to massage my feet daily (he is SOOOO wonderful). i find the massage helps soothe my sore bits and makes me feel more 'in-line' somehow. I also still love my hot bubble baths to help me relax (I know, I know - bad for MG, but i can't help it. Love them). If you do go for a massage make sure you consume loads of water after and have a quiet evening.

I've also tried acupuncture two years ago. The treatment did nothing to improve my symptoms and I actually think it might have made things a bit worse. MG is so different person to person that who knows how anyone is going to react to anything!

Be careful and stay healthy! Please remember, I'm not a doctor - just sharing my opinions and experiences!
All the best,
Kathy

Kathy,
Heheheee....I also loved my "hot"..really "hot" bubble baths...but now after listening to the forum....I just take warm..almost cool.. baths....I feel so much better after the baths now....I am grateful for any advice here!

I really like vapor rub smells...I bet the wood smells would be nice too!

Stephanie