Multiple Sclerosis (MS) impacts millions of people worldwide. According to the Multiple Sclerosis International Federation, around 2.8 million people were living with MS globally as of 2023. One of the most challenging aspects of MS is its effect on balance and coordination—functions essential to our everyday activities.

Understanding Multiple Sclerosis From Ayurvedic Point Of View 

From an Ayurvedic perspective, Multiple Sclerosis (MS) is seen as a consequence of a weakened and imbalanced immune system that has lost its ability to function properly. This weakening occurs due to various factors such as poor dietary habits, chronic stress, toxins, improper lifestyle choices, and disruptions in the body’s natural energy balance (doshas).

Normally, the immune system is designed to protect and nourish the body, but when it becomes compromised, it fails to provide this protection. As a result, the nervous system becomes vulnerable, leading to degeneration and disease. Ayurvedic treatment focuses on restoring balance, strengthening the immune system, and detoxifying the body, rather than suppressing its natural functions.

Why MS Affects Balance and Coordination

A healthy and well-functioning nervous system is essential for our bodies to maintain balance and execute coordinated movements. When MS disrupts this system, several complications arise.

• Vestibular Dysfunction: The vestibular system helps maintain balance. MS-related lesions can affect this functioning.
• Proprioception Problems: Proprioception is the body’s ability to sense its own position in space. When MS impairs this function, judging movement and maintaining balance becomes harder.
• Muscle Weakness and Spasticity: Damage to the nerves can cause muscle stiffness and weakness, making smooth and controlled movements more challenging.
• Cerebellar Ataxia: The cerebellum can be directly affected by MS, leading to affecting fine motor skills and coordination).

The impact of MS on balance and coordination manifests in various ways:

• Unsteady Walking (Gait Disturbance): A common early sign of MS is when people feel wobbly or as if they might fall.
• Vertigo and Dizziness: Sensations of spinning or lightheadedness caused by inner ear or brain disruptions.
• Tremors: Involuntary shaking due to cerebellar involvement.
• Numbness and Tingling: Sensory issues can make judging footing and hand placement hard.
• Slurred Speech: When coordination of facial muscles is affected.

The Role of Lesions

As the immune system attacks myelin, it causes swelling and the formation of lesions. These lesions disrupt signal transmission in the CNS, which directly affects motor control and balance.

A 2024 study published in The Lancet Neurology highlighted that over 80% of MS patients reported issues with balance and coordination as early symptoms. The study emphasized the link between lesion location and symptom severity—lesions in the cerebellum and brainstem were most likely to cause these issues.

How MS Impacts Reflexes and Response Time

In addition to balance and coordination, MS can significantly affect reflexes and how quickly the body responds to external stimuli. Reflexes are automatic responses triggered by the nervous system when the body senses sudden changes, like pulling your hand away from a hot surface.

Because of this, everyday activities get hampered with delayed response time which increases the risk of trips, falls, and injuries, making safety a top priority for those living with MS. 

Ayush Prana : This is Where MS Heals

At Ayush Prana, we create personalized treatment plans for your unique needs.

Our approach includes Panchakarma therapy to detoxify and rejuvenate the nervous system, herbal remedies like Ashwagandha and Turmeric, known for their anti-inflammatory and nerve-supporting properties, and dietary guidance that emphasizes whole grains, fruits, and healthy fats. 

We also integrate yoga and meditation to improve balance, coordination, and overall well-being — nurturing the body and mind on the path to healing.

Call us at +91 98765 43210 or visit our website at ayushprana.in/pams to schedule a consultation today.