ALS - Part 10 - Conclusion

  Conclusion

The current evidence shows that it is realistic to attempt to slow down the rate of ALS progression in people with ALS. It is definitely achievable to minimize and alleviate the symptoms of ALS. Based on the literature from the alternative medical world and interviews with those treating people with ALS, there are grounds for optimism in treating those with ALS. The interview with Dr. Stan Gross disclosed that he has had 27 ALS patients to date. Sixteen are still alive, with eight having no symptoms of ALS and no muscular atrophy, and an additional six are stable with signs of atrophy. A second example is from Dr. Lepore. In his book, he refers to stabilizing muscle deterioration in ALS patients (Lepore).

Currently there is no cure and no standard medical treatment for ALS that is effective. The rate of ALS is on the rise even with an aging population taken into account (McCarthy). This fact lends credence to an environmental factor playing a big role. This could be from a deteriorating diet with many processed foods, including GMO foods, and exposures to substances like heavy metals. These are all factors for which alternative medicine has solutions to offer.

The evidence points to significant modalities and substances that can help people suffering from ALS. Standard medicine is not currently giving any hope to ALS sufferers, but the literature that is available and practitioners who work with ALS clients point to modalities that should be offered to an ALS client which will relieve his/her symptoms and slow the progression. Based on the literature, the sooner these modalities are started the better the outcome for the person with ALS.

Some of the modalities mentioned in this paper have the potential to delay progression of ALS symptoms. These include various supplements such as:

• Alfalfa;
  
  
• CoQ10;
  
  
• Addition of Whey protein to keep weight stable;
  
  
• Astaxanthin.
  
  

Other treatments intended to delay progression of ALS involve detoxification which include:

• The Detox Cocktail suggested by Dr. Sherry Rogers;
  
  
• Far Infrared Sauna;
  
  
• Modified Citrus Pectin and/or D-glucarate (200-300 mg twice a day) to help with Phase II detoxification;
  
  
• NES Health.
  
  

Obviously, when trying to delay the progression of a disease, it is better to start these modalities sooner rather than later so that the person with ALS enjoys a longer period of time with more of his/her motor neurons intact. This will allow the person with ALS to retain a higher quality of life for a longer period of time and is a goal very worthy for the practitioner and patient to achieve.

Some of the alternative modalities which may be helpful with symptoms experienced by the ALS patient include:

• CES for insomnia and/or anxiety;
  
  
• Whole Body Vibration for maintaining muscle mass and balance;
  
  
• Light Therapy LED and NES Health for increases in energy level;
  
  
• Chiropractic for muscle/back pain;
  
  
• Acupuncture for energy level;
  
  
• Homeopathy & Bach Flower Essences for anxiety, depression and insomnia;
  
  
• Massage to keep muscles flexible.
  
  

These modalities need to be applied after a consultation and as needed by the individual client.

The ALS patient should be reminded that the disease attacks his/her body but not his/her soul. The prognosis is a frightening one but there is room for hope and even with disabilities, the person still has a life that should be lived in the best way they are able. The goal is to allow the patient to have a more fulfilling life. The practitioner should remember each ALS client is important as well as unique and needs encouragement and hope as he or she travels on his/her path.

One of the subjects that should be discussed with the ALS client as they decide to add alternative modalities is the cost involved. Typically insurance will only pay for certain modalities such as CES (when utilizing a device that has received status as a Class A medical device and is prescribed by a medical doctor), chiropractic and acupuncture. Supplements, NES Health, and other modalities discussed above are not currently covered by insurance and need to be funded from the patient’s resources. Many ALS sufferers do not have the financial resources available to fund their treatment out of their own pocket.

One important aspect of alternative treatment is that the person with ALS may have to change some lifestyle habits to get the best results. A diet that limits simple carbohydrates, sugars, and processed foods and emphasizes organic, whole foods runs counter to our current culture. Implementing and maintaining these kinds of changes can be challenging for the individual and his/her family. GMO foods are in most processed foods available in the United States of America. While many major grocery stores are starting to carry organic produce, it is not available everywhere and usually carries a bigger price tag. Restaurants, in general, do not offer non-GMO foods and do not take exacting efforts to eliminate MSG from their food offerings. Indeed, since MSG makes food taste better, many specifically add it to their recipes.

It takes extra effort for any individual to eat foods that provide good health. If a patient and his/her family decide to implement these changes to their diet, it would be best to implement the changes as quickly as possible. Even if little steps are taken in an incremental fashion, that would be better than not making the changes at all. Feeling better or getting well can necessitate some sacrifices, a change in life style, and a new attitude.

The standard medical world does not have many positive comments in their literature about alternative modalities. In the sites established as resources to the ALS patient, there are statements like the following: “There is very little scientific evidence to support the safety and effectiveness of many CAHC [Complementary And Alternative Healthcare] and NHP [Natural Health Products] claims and in some cases may be detrimental to a person with a disease such as ALS, or anyone on any medication” (McCarthy). There is wisdom in trying to prevent unscrupulous persons taking advantage of people with a terminal illness. However, the warnings given on the informational sites do not reflect the information on complementary and alternative modalities available in the literature, in studies and clinical experience, which are showing positive results in quality of life for the ALS patient. This discourages people with ALS from utilizing beneficial therapies.

People, who have been given a dismal picture of their disease and given little to no hope to improve their situation, are less motivated to try something that is not recommended by mainstream medicine. It helps to have an adventuresome spirit to seek out and implement these alternative strategies. It is also necessary to have alternative practitioners available to suggest and offer these modalities. Many practitioners only offer one or two of the methods discussed in this paper. Someone with ALS may have to seek out several different practitioners to combine the modalities that are needed to relieve their symptoms.

Based on the literature and the experience from clinical observations of alternative practitioners, there is reason for the ALS patient to keep hope alive.

This paper is in honor of Warren Schaeffer, an exceptional
person, adventurous being and a first-class gentleman.