Northern Neurology
Our clinic has branched and created a satellite clinic in Fairbanks specializing in the diagnosis and treatment of multiple sclerosis. Did you know that Multiple Sclerosis affects more than 1 million people in the United States (yes, this includes us Alaska!) and that it affects more women than men. Most are diagnosed between the ages of 20 to 50 years of age and the frequency of diagnosis is higher as we move farther from the equator. So you guessed it, being in northern Alaska, the prevalence is fairly high for MS.
​
We are here for that reason. We are here to help diagnose the symptoms that have suddenly appeared or have gone from inconvenient to unbearable as we often talk ourselves out of "making it a big deal". We are here to stand with you during treatments and make them something you look forward to. We are here to ensure you have all the resources, education and support you and your family needs. We are here for you.
FAIRBANKS MULTIPLE SCLEROSIS SPECIALTY CLINIC
Multiple Sclerosis information ...
What is Multiple Sclerosis?
​
MS is an autoimmune condition that affects the central nervous system. The immune system of a person with MS attacks the protective layer which surrounds the nerves. This is called the myelin sheath.
MS can cause a wide range of symptoms, including issues with balance and coordination, fatigue, and problems with vision.
​
Not all MS treatments have to be medications alone.
​
Many are not interested in medications for a chronic illness, and that is OK! There are other options out there that help to reduce the symptoms MS can cause. Some of these more natural remedies include:
-
Acupuncture,
-
Meditation,
-
Physical Therapies,
-
Massage,
-
Aqua-therapies (swimming, water aerobics),
-
Vitamin infusions,
-
anti-oxidants like dark chocolate and blueberries (of course, you can't make that your WHOLE diet, but blueberries?! We are in the perfect place!) and we always suggest an
-
Anti-inflammatory diet such as the Mediterranean diet.
-
Lions mane mushrooms have also shown to have a regenerative component as well as promoting nerve growth. This potential benefit is attributed to two active compounds: hericenones and erinacines. There is still a lot of studying to do on this, however, so far there is true promise on the horizon.
​
Of course, Multiple Sclerosis does not go away and as of now, there is no cure for MS, but there are ways you can take control. Western medications and natural remedies don't need to be mutually exclusive, they often work best when working together. It is always YOUR choice, we are just here to help get you all the information we can so you can make the best choice for you.
​
​
​
​
Diet, Exercise and Healthy Behaviors
Importance of Healthy Behaviors With MS
​
Staying healthy with multiple sclerosis involves more than disease and symptom management. Research shows some healthy behaviors can positively impact your MS progression and your lifespan.
These behaviors include:
-
Eating well
-
Exercising
-
Not smoking
-
Ongoing preventative care
-
Managing other medical conditions
-
Monitoring alcohol use
-
The resources below can help with your overall wellness. Consult your healthcare provider before making any changes to your diet or exercise program.
​