ALS - Part 9 - Monitoring ALS Symptoms

   Monitoring Nutritional and Alternative Treatments

For an alternative practitioner working with an ALS client, it is important to assess what symptoms the client is experiencing. In order to determine whether progress, decline or stability is occurring, it is important to take snapshots over time. Reviewing the chart with the client is effective in refreshing the client’s memory and focusing their attention. The supplements and healing modalities being used should also be noted.

Some of the ALS symptoms to track include:

• Muscle groups that are affected. Are symptoms working up the limb? If symptoms are experiences in the arms, note what daily activities are restricted and to what degree. If in the legs, note stability, walking abilities and duration;
  
  
• Note frequency and intensity of muscle cramping and twitching;
  
  
• Handwriting ability;
  
  
• Note difficulties with speech slurring, mind going faster than speaking ability;
  
  
• Speaking volume;
  
  
• Note difficulties with swallowing;
  
  
• Note difficulties with sleeping. Note if there are episodes of waking with difficulty breathing or with pain;
  
  
• Note difficulties with breathing while awake;
  
  
• Note mood and outlook;
  
  
• Note perceived energy level.
  
  

Not all symptoms will be present with each client, so it is important to interview the client and draw out the symptoms. Based on the symptoms and what modalities are available to the practitioner either by self or by referral to another practitioner, the practitioner and client will agree on the treatment plan for a specified period of time. In the chart, the modalities chosen should be listed. On the next visit, the client should be interviewed again. Any symptom shifts should be noted. What modalities were used (a check on client compliance) should be recorded. The client’s experience using the modalities should be noted. If the client’s experience is negative with some of the supplements and modalities, compliance will be lacking. Discussion with the client can allow the practitioner to change suggested treatment to optimize effectiveness and compliance. Table 1 is attached at the end of this paper as an example.

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