Did you know that more than 400,000 people in the United
States have Multiple Sclerosis (MS)? MS is a chronic and often disabling disease which involves an
immune system attack against the central nervous system. It affects the
individual’s brain, spinal cord, and optic nerves. Some symptoms for multiple
sclerosis include numbness, impairment of speech or coordination, blurred
vision, and severe fatigue.
The Multiple Sclerosis Association of America is a group of
passionate individuals who aim to better the lives of those suffering from
Multiple Sclerosis. Amy McKay, Kinesiology Professor at Tarleton State
University who has been an active member of the association for the past five
years says, “The importance of this society is to enhance the quality of life
in addition to providing technology and funding for individuals with MS.” A
friend of McKay’s granted her the opportunity to join the organization in 2008
and since then she has served as an avid speaker to MS groups about the role of
nutrition and wellness in “treating” the disease. McKay believes that until a
cure is found for MS, it is important for these individuals to aim to live
healthy lifestyles.
While the origin of MS has not been definitively identified,
scientists currently theorize that the disease may stem from a number of
different factors. According to the Multiple Sclerosis Association of America, some
believe that the environment and temperature climates may have an effect on a
person’s risk to the disease. Statistics show that different populations and ethnic
groups have a considerably different prevalence of MS. Others believe that MS
may be associated with genetics. These individuals believe that MS may be
inherited and that siblings of a person with MS may be at greater risk. While genetics or the environment may or may not be the reason for one’s
MS, there are other potential factors such as viruses or hormone levels.
McKay also works to treat MS through the use of complementary
and alternative medicine (CAM). This
form of treatment is used in conjunction with the medical treatments and
includes everything from diet and exercise, lifestyle changes, and acupuncture.
Since there is no cure, medications are used to help modify the disease
activity and progression, and rehabilitation sources help MS patients to
maintain their ability to perform effectively at home or work. These sources
may include cognitive rehabilitation, physical therapy, occupational therapy,
speech, or vocational therapy. Until a cure is found, the work of the Multiple
Sclerosis Association of America and individuals like Amy McKay is vital to the
quality of life of persons with MS.
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