For instance, studies of immunology have revealed that there are a variety of different cell types that are important in understanding how the disease affects an individual. Recent advances in the ability to image the brain and spinal cord have shown us that MS can be active even when an individual is experiencing few symptoms. With respect to therapy, there have been many developments in the past five years. Three drugs are now available in the United States. There are many clinical trials planned or underway to test other treatments.
Many individuals find alternative therapies helpful.
However, no alternative therapeutic approach has yet been demonstrated scientifically to improve MS or its symptoms. However, a controlled study of bee venom in humans with MS is underway. While I do not recommend alternative therapies to replace the current recommended treatments, they can at times complement management of the disease either through reducing sress and empowering the individual. However, I always caution my patients to be careful of false claims and spending their money on treatments that have not been proven to be helpful. There has been some preliminary research on bone marrow transplantation, a very aggressive form of treatment in MS, but so far the evidence does not demonstrate that this is an effective treatment.