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Motor Neuron Diseases Alternative Treatment

Motor neuron diseases (MND) are a group of neurological disorders that interrupt the transmission of signals from the brain to receptors in the brain stem and spinal cord. Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis (Lou Gehrig's Disease) is the most common MND. There is no specific treatment for MND, according to The National Institute of Neurological Diseases and Stroke. Although there is no cure for MND, some alternative treatments are effective in treating symptoms.

  1. Physical Therapy

    • Physical therapy and rehabilitation can help MND patients improve posture, prevent joint immobility and slow muscle atrophy, according to NINDS.

    Exercise

    • Low-impact exercise such walking, swimming and cycling can strengthen muscles and improve cardiovascular health in patients with MND. Stretching exercises reduce muscle spasms and help prevent muscle cramps, according to Mayo Clinic.

    Occupational Therapy

    • According to Mayo Clinic, occupational therapy is used to help patients with MND learn to use assistive devices (such as braces, orthotics and wheel chairs) to help manage symptoms.

    Speech Therapy

    • Speaking and swallowing become difficult in later stages of MND. Speech therapy is used to help improve muscle coordination of the mouth and tongue, according to BBC Health.

    Nutrition

    • When MND affects muscles involved in swallowing, diet should be changed to make eating easier for the patient, according to Mayo Clinic. Consuming easy to swallow foods reduces the risk of choking or inhaling food particles into the lungs.

    Counseling

    • MND does not directly impair patients' personality, memory or other cognitive function. However, MND patients often become depressed or anxious as they lose bodily functions, according to Mayo Clinic. Psychological counseling helps patients cope with their feelings about the disease.

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