ALS - Part 8 - Alternative Treatments

  Nutritional and Alternative Treatments for ALS

Many patients diagnosed with ALS are already seeking out forms of Complementary and Alternative Modalities.  A graph printed in the Journal of the Neurological Sciences in 2001 showed that 189 ALS patients out of a total of 350, who returned a survey, reported using some form of complementary therapy
(Wasner, Klier and Borasio).  The results split as follows:

• Acupuncture: 47%
  
• Homeopathy: 40%
  
• Naturopathy: 24%
  
• Esoteric Treatments: 20%
  
• Food supplements: 16%
  
• Vitamins: 15%
  
• Traditional Chinese Medicine: 12%
  
• Ayurvedic Medicine: 5%
  
• Diet: 3%
  
  

This paper will look at some of the treatments listed above as well as others for which there is some evidence that the approach may be helpful for the person with ALS.

  Detoxification

Detoxification is one of the modalities used as an alternative approach  to assist with ALS clients.  There are two phases to detoxification.  Phase 1 is  getting the toxins out of the cells and phase II is eliminating the toxin from the body through urine, feces, and sweat (Fuchs, Get Rid of Toxins and Feel Healthier Than Ever).  Phase I detoxification requires large quantities of enzymes, nutrients and anti-oxidants to prepare toxic chemicals for removal (S. A. Rogers, Detoxify or Die 46-50).  As an alternative, chelation drugs  prescribed by a medical doctor such as DMSA (Dimercaptosuccinic acid) can be used for Phase I. 

Dr. Nan Fuchs recommends using a modified alginate and modified citric pectin supplement made with the correct molecular size and weight which operates in both phases and removes heavy metal toxins such as mercury and lead without removing essential minerals like zinc, magnesium and calcium (Fuchs, Ask Dr. Nan).  The modified citrus pectin removes the toxic heavy metals and chemicals from the blood stream and causes the substances to be eliminated in the feces.  This type of supplement may also help with constipation since it increases the quantity of feces.

Phase II detoxification is where the chemical or heavy metal is attached to a molecule produced by the body such as glutathione which drags the toxins out of the blood and into the liver and dumps the toxin into the gut (S. A. Rogers, Detoxify or Die).  If Phase II is not accomplished, the toxins can be re-absorbed in body tissues (Fuchs, Get Rid of Toxins and Feel Healthier Than Ever).  Sherry Rogers recommends a detox “cocktail” taken once or twice a day to rev up both phases of detoxification. The cocktail consists of:

• a heaping teaspoon of Vitamin C (anti-oxidant);
• 300-600 mg of R Lipoic Acid (reduces glutamate excitotoxicity);
• 400-800 mg of reduced glutathione (helps in removing heavy metals);
• 1-2 big glasses of water.
  
  

Dr. Nan Fuchs recommends D-glucarate (200-300 mg twice a day) to help with Phase II detoxification.

One theory of ALS and other neurodegenerative diseases classifies these illnesses as Neurotoxic Membrane Syndrome or NMS (Foster, Kane and Speight). The article by John Foster, Patricia Kane and Neal Speight discusses how neurotoxin exposure results in the disintegration/degeneration of endothelial cell membrane and the membrane of neurons. They define biotoxins as bacteria, viruses, parasites, spirochetes, dinoflagelietes, and fungus which take up residence in the liver, biliary tree and/or the gallbladder where they produce neurotoxins.

Other researchers have confirmed that ALS does involve alterations in RNA processing by mutation of a DNA/RNA binding protein (Bruijn). Recommendations to treat NMS involve supplementation of the proper fatty acids, intravenous Phospholipid Exchange, oral use of butyrate (a 4 chain fatty acid), and oral supplementation of phospholipids which could include lecithin or phosphatidylcholine (Foster, Kane and Speight).

  Vitamins, Minerals and Other Supplements

Many natural supplements may be helpful for patients with ALS. According to the Life Extension’s Disease Prevention and Treatment, a basic protocol might include:

• A high quality multivitamin with plenty of anti-oxidants (This provides protection against oxidative stress, and improve mineral levels needed in making enzymes);

• Reduced glutathione - 250-500 mg per day (This is an antioxidant and a molecule the body uses to remove toxins from the body);
  
  
• Methylcobalamin (Vitamin B-12) - 20 mg 2-3 times a day (This provides improved muscle response, protection against glutamate toxicity, and protects and regenerates neurons). In one clinical trial reported in 1998, ALS patients took B12 at 25 mg per day for one month and had improved muscle response (Segala). In another study reported by Melanie Segala, high doses of B12 resulted in nerve regeneration in rats. Arguing against B12 as a supplement is a study that showed only a transient benefit of one to three months (Zoccolella, Santamato and Lamberti);
  
  
• Thiamin (Vitamin B-1) - 100 mg per day;
  
  
• Acetyl –L-Carnitine - 3000 mg per day (This is to protect the neurons);
  
  
• Creatine - 5 grams a day on an empty stomach (The purpose is to stabilize the enzymes in the mitochondria, and it also functions as an anti-oxidant).
  
  

Other supplements can be added based on the client’s needs and symptoms. For example, magnesium can be added to help with constipation.

Further information on creatine comes from one study which showed taking 10 grams per day gave a negative result while a different study utilizing 20 grams per day increased isometric power in ALS patients (Zoccolella, Santamato and Lamberti). Dr. Mercola has reported that a combination of the supplement creatine and the antibiotic Minocycline slows the progression of ALS in mice either separately or more effectively in combination (Mercola, Creatine and Antibiotic for Lou Gehrig's Disease). The antibiotic, Minocycline, may make the mitochondria more resistant to cell death and it may block the reactivity of microglia which are immune cells that release toxic compounds (Mercola, Creatine and Antibiotic for Lou Gehrig's Disease).

An alternative program from someone with a good track record in treating ALS patients is Dr. Stan Gross’s recommended list of supplements:

• A good quality multivitamin;
  
  
• 30 days on a Gut cleanser;
  
  
• Beta 1, 3; 1, 6 Glucan - 250 mg (This is used for immune deficiency/auto-immune response. This supplement shuts down the D-5 triggers and ups the D-7 triggers for the white cells);
  
  
• Alpha-Glucan mushroom extract - 150 mg;
  
  
• Lactoferrin (collostrum) - 150 mg;
  
  
• Probiotic;
  
  
• D-3 - 5000 units;
  
  
• Essential Fatty Acids (Sardine Oil preferred).
  
  

Dr. Benjamin Frank also recommended use of sardines for their ribonucleic acid content. Dr. Frank believed that long-lasting effects of nucleic acid therapy were due to enhanced CoQ10 synthesis, which helped maximize the energy production in cells, resulting in more efficient oxygen utilization, more energy, and more efficient ATP synthesis. He speculated that the benefit might be due to an increase in the number and efficiency of the energy-producing mitochondria (Vitamin Research Products).

An article on mitochondrial insufficiency gives a list of “premier” brain nutrients and additionally lists the minimum dose of nutrient that has proven clinically effective as well as the maximum safe range of the nutrient (Kidd). The recommended nutrients to support nerve cell mitochondria and the cells carrying them are:

• Alpha-lipoic acid - 300 to 2400 mg;
  
  
• Acetyl-L-Carnitine - 1 to 3 g;
  
  
• Coenzyme Q10 - 360 to 2400 mg;
  
  
• DHA + EPA, omeg-3 fatty acids - 800 to 3000 mg in a 1:1 ratio;
  
  
• Glycerophosphocholine - 600 to 1200 mg;
  
  
• Phosphatidylserine - 600 to 1200 mg;
  
  
• NADH - 5 to 15 mg.
  
  

There are other known supplements that can provide protection from oxidative damage. One of the goals for recommending supplements to the ALS patient is to slow neuronal damage. Included among substances that protect neurons from oxidative damage is carnosine. Brain tissue has high concentrations of carnosine which is a natural anti-oxidant and anti-glycation substance. Carnosine can prevent cross linking of proteins and can also minimize toxicity due to high levels of metal ions in brain areas (Stokel, Carnosine: Exceeding Scientific Expectations).

PQQ (pyroloquinoline quinone) has also demonstrated protective effects against excitotoxicity induced by toxins such as mercury (Stokel, Rejuvenate Your Cells by Growing New Mitochondria). Aging cells typically show a decline in the function and number of mitochondria. PQQ has been proven to promote the generation of new mitochondria which is a breakthrough in scientific research (Stokel, Rejuvenate Your Cells by Growing New Mitochondria). An in vitro experiment did show that in a narrow concentration range, PQQ was effective in inhibiting neuronal cell death by methylmercury (Zang, Xu and Sun). Methylmercury (MeHg) is a widely ingested heavy metal that is frequently ingested from eating contaminated fish and shellfish. When MeHg is present, it causes the generation of reactive oxygen species (ROS) which results in apoptotic or programmed cell death. With the addition of PQQ in the test tube, there was a protective effect against oxidative stress (Zang, Xu and Sun).

Another recommended substance is CoQ10, taken at 1200 mg per day (LEF Protocol for ALS). There are forms of CoQ10 that offer good response at a much lower dose. This improved form of CoenzymeQ10 is called Ubiquinol. Anecdotally, one of my clients with ALS reported excellent response to this form of CoQ10 declaring that the increase in perceived energy levels was significant. However, one study reported that CoQ10, while safe and well tolerated, did not extend survival time (Zoccolella, Santamato and Lamberti).

Another very interesting supplement to consider is astaxanthin. This carotenoid is a very strong anti-oxidant and free radical scavenger (Mercola, The Most Powerful Nutrient Ever Discovered for Eye Health). Of the carotenoids tested to date, only astaxanthin can cross the blood-brain barrier. According to Dr. Mercola’s article, the latest research shows astaxanthin performs beneficial biochemical functions including protecting the brain from dementia and Alzheimer’s, reducing oxidative damage to DNA, reducing symptoms from pancreatitis, multiple sclerosis, carpal tunnel syndrome, rheumatoid arthritis, Parkinson’s disease, ALS, and neurodegenerative diseases. Astaxanthin is found in microalgae that reside in the sea and sea creatures that consume the algae such as wild salmon, shellfish, and krill. This means that to get enough in the diet to act therapeutically, the client would have to add it from supplements. The current recommendation is 2 mg daily (Mercola, The Most Powerful Nutrient Ever Discovered for Eye Health).

Lithium is another supplement to consider for its anti-oxidant properties. Lithium also induces autophagy. Autophagy in ALS involves the metabolic consumption of misfolded proteins and altered mitochondria from motor neurons (Zoccolella, Santamato and Lamberti). In a small sample, “daily doses of lithium leading to plasma levels ranging from 0.4 to 0.8 mEq/liter, delayed disease progression in…44 patients” with ALS (Zoccolella, Santamato and Lamberti). However a recent clinical trial with 84 patients did not show any evidence that it delayed progression of ALS (Results of a Lithium Clinical Trial).

Spirulina is a nutrient-rich blue-green algae. In a recent study, the lead author, Svitlana Garbuzova-Davis said: “Evidence for oxidative stress has been associated with ALS and, in our past studies, we demonstrated potent decreases in markers of oxidative damage and inflammation in aged rats fed diets supplemented with spirulina or spinach.” ALS mice fed spirulina had reduced inflammatory markers and motor neuron degeneration over a 10 week period (Blue-green Algae Tested for treating ALS).

An anti-oxidant that could be considered for use with ALS patients is alpha lipoic acid. It is a free radical scavenger and is the only one known to easily get through the blood-brain barrier (Mercola, This Antioxidant Can Smash Insulin Resistance and Autoimmune Disease). Alpha lipoic acid helps to rid the body of heavy metals. Alpha lipoic acid has been shown to stimulate synthesis of nerve growth factor in astroglial cells (cells that support the structure of nervous tissue) in mice (Segala).

Silymarin or milk thistle is a good addition for several reasons. Silymarin is a naturally occurring bioflavonoid with a strong antioxidant function in the body (S. A. Rogers). The ALS patient would be interested in the role silymarin can play in the detoxification of the liver, the increase in cytochrome C, and especially in the ability for it to repair the mitochondria (S. A. Rogers).

The hormone DHEA is a hormone made in the adrenal glands that declines in production as a person ages (Segala). A study has shown that both DHEA and pregnenolone are needed in the regulation of neurologic functions (Segala). Pregnenolone can be converted to DHEA in the body. Supplementation of 25 mg 2-3 times a day of DHEA or 50 mg 3 times a day of pregnenolone can be used by an ALS patient (Segala).

A main ingredient of curry is turmeric. Turmeric has a pigment called curcumin which acts as an antioxidant (LEF Protocol for ALS). Studies in mice have shown that curcumin can reduce the inflammatory process and improve the calcium status in muscle tissue (LEF Protocol for ALS). It is suggested that curcumin be taken at a quantity of 900 mg per day.

Another substance, N-acetylcysteine (NAC) also shows antioxidant activity (LEF Protocol for ALS). In mouse models it has decreased motor neuron loss, improved muscle mass as well as improved survival time (LEF Protocol for ALS).

Resveratrol is also an antioxidant. It is found in red grape skins. In a study of glutamate toxicity, resveratrol suppressed the influx of calcium into cells (LEF Protocol for ALS). This effect would be supportive to motor neuron health.

Vitamin D has been shown to be deficient in two studies of ALS patients (Segala). This vitamin has been shown to be deficient in people with other neurodegenerative diseases such as Multiple Sclerosis (S. A. Rogers, Detoxify or Die).

  Faulty Metabolism

Metabolic Failure/Metabolic Syndrome is often present in ALS patients (Gross), meaning that ALS patients’ bodies are not utilizing nutrients appropriately. To treat this aspect of ALS, Dr. Gross uses Proteolytic enzymes (specifically PRX) to help digest protein and protein invaders in the body. He includes a protein supplement that also contains Pregenalone, Xanthones and Resveritrol in a powdered Protein Soy Isolate as part of a dietary change to lower carbohydrate intake and up the ALS patient’s protein intake in order to jump start their metabolism. Adding the appropriate enzymes re-establishes the Myelin Sheath.

  Herbs

Dried concentrated Alfalfa juice concentrate is a source of electrolytes and gives exhausted muscles strength to function (Lepore). Dr. Lepore has given his patients concentrated Alfalfa tablets which in his clinical experience has halted the progression of ALS.

Ginseng has been shown to delay the onset of ALS symptoms in an animal study. This was likely due to its anti-oxidant properties (LEF Protocol for ALS).

Ginkgo biloba also shows anti-oxidant properties, and in an in-vitro study was found to protect against glutamate-induced toxicity (LEF Protocol for ALS).

Vinpocetine is an extract of the periwinkle plant. Vinpocetine was shown in one study to protect against excitotoxicity that was caused by glutamate, and in other research has been shown to protect against excessive intracellular release of calcium (Segala).

  Diet

Typically, an ALS patient is relying on sugar to provide energy, and using processed foods and carbohydrates in the form of breads, pastas and sweets. This is not supportive for healing to take place. The diet that Dr. Stan Gross recommends to his ALS patients includes:

• Eliminating processed foods as much as possible;
  
  
• Incorporating raw fruits and vegetables;
  
  
• Eating food items that are lower on the Glycemic Index;
  
  
• Incorporating sufficient protein (Dr. Gross recommends Whey Protein);
  
  
• Increasing water intake to 3-4 liters per day, preferably supplied from a reverse osmosis filter to eliminate further toxic buildup.
  
  

Additionally, for the first four weeks of treatment, elimination of grains from the diet is required in order to reverse the omentum buildup which is caused by the Uric Acid Cycle being stifled or shut down. The omentum is a sheet of fat that is covered by peritoneum (the membrane that lines the abdominal cavity and covers most of the abdominal organs).

Dr. Stan Gross’ use of whey protein is supported by a study that evaluated a small group of ALS patients (Silva, LF and Silva). Half were given a product with approximately 70% Whey Proteins and 30% milk starch and the rest modified starch. The ALS patients using the whey protein supplement showed improvements in weight gain, Body Mass Index, “ increased arm muscle area and circumference, higher albumin, white blood cell and total lymphocyte counts, and reduced creatine-kinase, aspartate aminotransferase and alanine aminotransferase” (Silva, LF and Silva).

From Life Extension’s Disease Prevention and Treatment, an anecdotal story reports that Nutritionist Carmen Fusco utilized the following nutrients for ALS clients:

• Octasanol from raw wheat germ oil;
  
  
• Vitamin B5 (Pantothenic acid) in high doses;
  
  
• DMG sublingual;
  
  
• Branch chain amino acids;
  
  
• Sublingual B12.
  
  

Carmen Fusco, MS, RN, CNS is a research scientist and clinical nutritionist in New York City who has lectured and written numerous articles on the biochemical approach to the prevention of aging and degenerative diseases.

Also anecdotally from the same source, Dr. Benjamin Frank recommended the coenzyme form of the B vitamins injected intramuscularly (Segala). Dr. Frank was a physician who pioneered the use of nucleic acids in the therapy of aging and chronic diseases from the mid-1950s to the late 1970s. Dr. Frank reported the results of his research and clinical experience in four books published during this timeframe.

The “ketogenic” type of diet has been shown to slow down the progression of ALS (Harder). The ketogenic diet is an extreme diet where 90% of calories are provided from fat and 8% from protein. Not many people are able to maintain this type of a diet and thus would not be an effective strategy for very many people as the diet is so restrictive.

As previously discussed, those with neurodegenerative disease should practice avoidance of excitotoxins in foods such as MSG, aspartame, hydrolyzed protein and soy protein extract (Blaylock).

  Exercise and Rest

ALS patients with respiratory dysfunction frequently show reduced exercise tolerance (Hardiman). This can make any recommendation for exercise to retain muscle strength difficult. Experience with ALS and other diseases that cause muscle weakness, such as Multiple Sclerosis, has shown two devices help to retain muscles with people who are weak (Christ). The first is a vibrating plate upon which the patient stands, providing “Whole Body Vibration.” The frequency or speed of the vibrating plate can be adjusted. Starting slowly for short intervals, the length and intensity can be increased slowly over time to promote strengthening of the core muscles. The vibrating plate also results in lymphatic movement which is needed in detoxification. The second device is also utilized by Kathleen Christ in working with frail clients. Kathleen Christ is an aquatic therapist who also helps her clients with detoxification. The second device, called a “Chi machine,” swings the legs rhythmically while the patient is supine. This device improves circulation and lymphatic movement. Both of these machines improve the client’s outlook by elevating the mood. These devices also help with the client’s ability to “fall asleep.”

Whole Body Vibration can assist in allowing an ALS patient to both regain muscle strength and muscle tone. It also strengthens the heart and lung muscles. The vibrating plate creates short rapid bursts of low amplitude movement or acceleration forces. The mini-acceleration causes the nervous system and muscles to make rapid-fire adjustments and counter forces which induces significant energy expenditure and works the muscles without lifting large loads as would be required in weight training (Rowen). The way to preserve muscle is through resistance exercise. It has been found that even elderly patients can improve their balance and increase muscle strength (Runge). ALS patients may find it difficult to do standard resistance type exercises. However, they can stand on a vibrating plate for limited times to preserve and/or rebuild their muscles. The vibrating plate also improves blood circulation and improves toxin and lymphatic waste drainage which is important as treatment proceeds.

  Misdiagnoses

At times, ALS has been misdiagnosed. Stage III Lyme disease can present symptoms that look like ALS. Since the symptoms come long after the initial infection, the relation to the earlier infection may be missed in the diagnosis (Cagan). Cagan recommends the herb uncaria tomentosa (commonly referred to as cat’s claw) in the form of a TOA-Free formulation - an extract of cat’s claw that is rich in POA (pentacyclic oxindole alkaloids) and free of TOA (tetracyclic oxindole alkaloids) which can block the action of the POA’s . This treatment would need to be continued for 8 to 12 months to eliminate all bacteria from the body if this is the cause of the ALS-like symptoms.

  Emotional Stress

Emotional Stress can have a negative impact on ALS symptoms. One study shows that emotional processing may be disrupted in ALS (Palmieri, Naccarato and Abrahams). This study looked at ALS patients with verbal fluency deficits using PET and MRI functional imaging to show a pattern of predominant frontotemporal dysfunction. The study looked at prevalent behavioral symptoms with ALS patients such as apathy, difficulties with social judgment, and changes in emotional control. The literature available to the general public such as WebMD and Life Extension Foundation states that ability to think, reason and remember is usually not affected. However, the medical research available seems to indicate that a significant portion of ALS sufferers do develop some changes that can be measured in the brain structure as well as in behavior.

Methods to alleviate emotional stress are a valuable addition to working with ALS sufferers. Alternative medicine can offer meditation and other frequency support to help with stress levels. Detoxification of negative emotions and negative thought patterns are important. Uncovering hidden frustrations, fears, anger and resentments and replacing them with love, hope, forgiveness, and faith are very important for long term health.

Most churches offer support from clergy and some also have general support groups - although not specific for ALS since the incident rate for ALS is low and the average lifespan after diagnosis has been limited. As stated in 1 John 4:12: “As long as we love one another God will live in us and his love will be complete in us” and in Proverbs 17:22 “A glad heart is excellent medicine, a spirit depressed wastes the bones away.” Reaching out to other people is important to aid relief of emotional stress for anyone with a serious medical condition.

Other Modalities

  Acupuncture

Acupuncture is an important part of the protocol Dr. Gross recommends. He uses tongue and pulse diagnosis to determine the needle pattern to use in order to remove the blockage of Chi (Qi) or energy flow in the body. Using mice, one study confirmed that electro-acupuncture reduced neuroinflammatory responses, improving motor activity and reducing neuronal cell loss (Yang, Jiang and Lee).

  Homeopathy

In a study previously quoted, 40% of the ALS patients surveyed were using homeopathy. Homeopathy is a system of medicine that uses the ‘law of similars’ which states that a remedy can cure a disease if that same remedy given to a healthy person produces similar symptoms to the sick person (Panos and Heimlich). A homeopathic practioner/physician will select the remedy to give to a client based on matching the client’s symptoms to the symptoms the remedy produces. Each remedy is highly diluted to the point where there is no molecule left of the original substance. Contrary to usual scientific thinking, homeopathy claims that as dilutions occur, the potency of the remedy increases.

Mainstream medicine has always claimed that there is no scientific basis for this therapy. However, a Nobel Prize winning scientist, the French virologist Professor Luc Montagnier has provided research showing that water retains a memory that continues after many dilutions (Isaacs). Montagnier looked at solutions containing the DNA of viruses and bacteria and found that these solutions could emit low frequency radio waves which influenced the molecules around them and organized the molecule’s structure (Isaacs). These molecules also emit low frequency radio waves. He would then dilute the solutions many times and the low frequency waves remained measurable in the water after the dilutions (Isaacs). This research gives a scientific backing to Homeopathy’s premise that diluting a substance retains the information from the original substance in the dilution.

There are many abstracts attesting to the efficacy of homeopathy found in the article located at: http://www.nationalcenterforhomeopathy.org/files/Research-in-Homoeopathy.pdf.
Some of the abstracts listed in this article that might be of interest to the ALS community include favorable studies on the effectiveness of homeopathy with arsenic toxicity on victims in India as well as a study on the safety and cost effectiveness of homeopathy in general practice (Medhurst). Another interesting study involves the use of the homeopathic remedy, Kali Bichromicum. This is a remedy which was used to assist ventilated patients in ICU who had thick secretions in their lungs to be weaned faster off the ventilator (Major US Hospital adds Kali Bichromicum to its formulary for use in ventilated patients).

 Frequencies

Light frequencies can also be utilized effectively for people with ALS. Inside the body’s cells, there are enzymes such as NAD and cytochrome C oxidase which are triggered by light (S. A. Rogers, Healing with Light). Cytochrome C oxidase is used inside the cellular mitochondria to make energy. This enzyme is stimulated by far red and near-infrared light to increase energy synthesis (S. A. Rogers, Healing with Light). The process of turning on beneficial body chemistry using light is called “photobiomodulation.”

Dr. Gross utilizes a Low Energy Photon Therapy Device that uses light emitting diodes (LEDs) and offers infrared and visible light at set frequencies. He applies the light device’s pad to the thoracic area of the spine to increase the general Chi (Qi) of the bladder meridian which helps to increase the patient’s energy level.

  Far Infrared Sauna

Using a far infrared sauna is recommended for detoxing the body of heavy metals and chemicals. The deep penetration of the infrared energy improves the metabolic processes and increases oxygenation and enhances circulation (Wilson). The skin is a pathway the body can use for elimination. However, many people either cannot sweat or do not sweat since they are sedentary. Repeated use of a far infrared sauna restores the body’s ability to eliminate toxins through the skin (Wilson).

Dr. Stan Gross recommends the use of a Far Infrared Sauna for ALS patients. The frequency should be once a week with 4 weeks of using the sauna and 4 weeks not utilizing it. ALS sufferers do not adapt to either heat or cold easily because their parasympathetic response is slowed. However, they can tolerate the Far Infrared Sauna with encouragement. The far infrared penetrates the skin and allows phase I detoxification, and the sweating that the heat produces permits phase II detoxification to occur.

  NES Health

NES Health is a method used to restore the “Human Body Field.” In her book, The Field, Lynne McTaggart discusses the work of Fitz-Albert Popp and Harold S. Burr (McTaggart). Harold S. Burr studied and measured the electrical field around living things. “Burr discovered that developing salamanders possessed an energy field shaped like an adult salamander, and that this blueprint even existed in an unfertilized egg. Burr also discovered electrical fields around all sorts of organisms, from molds…to humans” (McTaggart p48). This electrical field around the human body is a portion of the Human Body Field that is claimed to be restored by the NES Health system. Other parts of NES Health deal with communication within the cells of the body.

In Kathleen Christ’s and my own clinical experience with NES Health, energy levels of the client are typically increased with the use of NES infoceuticals. Mood is also positively impacted with use of the NES infoceuticals. The potential side effect with utilizing NES Health is that symptoms of detoxification such as headache and stomachache can arise. These symptoms are typical reactions to many types of detoxification methods. If this is experienced, the effect can be minimized with the help of the NES Health practitioner adjusting the dose.

  Cranial Electrotherapy Stimulation

To help with ALS symptoms of insomnia, depression, and anxiety, the use of cranial electrotherapy stimulation (CES) can be considered. CES delivers a low-level electrical current via external skin surface electrodes (normally placed on the ears) (Tan, Craine and Bair). There is considerable evidence from research studies that CES is effective in treating insomnia, depression and anxiety (Kirsch, Craneal Electrotherapy Stimulation for the Treatment of Anxiety, Depression, Insomnia and Other Conditions). The microcurrent waveform activates some groups of nerve cells located at the brainstem to produce serotonin and acetylcholine. The CES application modulates the electrical activity in the brain while it is in the Alpha state. This modulation reduces pain perception and decreases stress effects and stabilizes mood (Kirsch, Craneal Electrotherapy Stimulation for the Treatment of Anxiety, Depression, Insomnia and Other Conditions). Unlike various pharmaceutical products used for depression and insomnia, the use of a CES device does not have side effects.

One study showed that patients given 30 minutes of stimulation with a CES device daily for ten days resulted in patients who went to sleep faster, awoke fewer times during the night, spent more of the sleep time in Stage IV sleep, and reported that on awakening they felt more rested (Kirsch and Gilula, CES in the Treatment of Insomnia: A Review and Meta-analysis). Use of a device like this does not have the side effect of depressing respiration so it is much better to consider using a CES device for sleep problems than to use sedatives and tranquillizing medication. Use of drugs which can impair breathing should only be used with extreme caution by anyone with an impaired pulmonary function such as those suffering with ALS. A study completed by B. Straus quoted in the same article by Kirsch and Gilula performed a comparison with phenobarbital for inducing sleep (not in ALS patients.) This study found CES treatment as efficacious as phenobarbital in inducing sleep without the harmful side effects.

CES units are durable medical devices. This means that with a prescription from a doctor, some insurance companies will fund the purchase of the device.

  Massage Therapy

Some of the ALS community web sites recommend the alternative therapy of massage including Swedish, shiatsu, and reflexology (McCarthy). In an article in Massage Today, techniques using deep work and stretching are presented to improve and maintain function (Werner). As clients near death, the treatments need to be gentler. Some ALS clients cannot speak or cannot speak clearly to the therapist. This will require a massage therapist to be sensitive to non-verbal communications as to what is effective and positive (Werner).

  Chiropractic

Chiropractic is a modality that is widely available and some insurance coverage will pay for the services. Chiropractors are trained in the neuromusculoskeletal system and treat disorders relating to the spine and body joints by adjusting the spinal column and using other corrective manipulations (FAQs). A review of 69 randomized clinical trials did provide moderate evidence that spinal manipulation was better than some other therapies for acute lower back pain (Bronfort, Haas and Evans). This review showed that spinal manipulation is as effective as a prescription anti-inflammatory drug for chronic lower back pain. No evidence of effectiveness in pain relief or mobility for ALS patients specifically was mentioned in the available literature.

One interesting study that could be of interest to the ALS community is one that studied the level of serum thiols in 46 patients receiving either long or short term chiropractic care compared to 30 patients that had not received chiropractic care (Chiropractic Influence on Oxidative Stress and DNA Repair). Serum thiol is an anti-oxidant that is a measure of human health status that correlates well with lifespan and aging. It is a surrogate measure for the DNA repair enzyme activity which fixes oxidative damage caused by the environment. Patients under long term care of two or more years showed a higher mean level of serum thiol which was independent of age, sex or intake of nutritional supplements. One of the authors of this study, Dr. Christopher Kent said: “Oxidative stress, metabolically generating free radicals, is now a broadly accepted theory of how we age and develop disease. Oxidative stress results in DNA damage, and inhibits DNA repair….Chiropractic care appears to improve the ability of the body to adapt to stress.” This study supports the use of chiropractic care with a scientific basis at a cellular level.

Dr. Gross utilizes Chiropractic adjustments to reset the neural network and reduce physiological stress. The ALS patient has a loss of dynamic energy flow. With the appropriate adjustments, the synaptic energy can flow more freely.

  Bach Flower Essences

Bach Flower Essences can be used as an emotional remedy for depression, insomnia and anxiety in a client with ALS. The Bach Flower Essences are meant to alter perception and attitude toward the individual’s situation. There are thirty-eight flower remedies for the practitioner from which to select. The remedies contain a dilute amount of the flower in a solution of water and alcohol with the result containing the “energy” of the flower. A practitioner will suggest 1 to 6 remedies, to use at one time. The practitioner mixes the combination and the patient will add a few drops of the combination or single essence into water (Blome). The mood and attitude reported by a client would assist the practitioner in selecting the appropriate remedy. Gorse could be used with people suffering from depression caused by hopelessness. If that person was irritable, Vervain or Beech might be added. Alternatively if the person was ‘wanting pity’ from others, the Star of Bethlehem essence might be selected to the mix with Gorse (Blome).

There is not very much experimental or clinical research available on the results of using Bach Flower Essences. Some of the available literature shows this treatment as no better than the placebo effect but there are many practitioners who have written clinical observations and use it in their practices. In the 1990s, nine hospitals in Perth Australia used Western Australian flower essences as complementary therapies for stress and pain management (Balinski).

A survey of professional organizations reviewed which complimentary therapies were believed to be suitable for certain medical conditions (Long and Huntley). The survey associated the Bach Flower therapy as being useful for stress and anxiety. Another paper reported clinical results that showed Bach Flower Essences were effective in a psychotherapy practice for use with chronic major depressive disorder (Masi).

There are no adverse side effects reported with the use of Bach Flower Essences. This is a fairly inexpensive modality so it could be considered for use in cases of ALS where the client is reporting problems with depression, insomnia and/or anxiety.

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