Transverse myelitis treatment

Prevent, alleviate, or heal disease—naturally.

Meet our practitioners who specialize in natural Transverse myelitis treatment

How it works

Consult with our health coaches who will learn about your symptoms, habits, and goals.

Take personalized home health tests to discover potential root causes of any symptoms or conditions you may have.

Review your results in just days with our functional medicine doctors, nurses, and dietitians who will help you achieve optimal health.

Learn about Transverse myelitis

Transverse myelitis is a rare inflammatory disease causing injury to the spinal cord with a range of symptoms, including pain, muscle weakness, paralysis, sensory problems, or bladder and bowel dysfunction. Transverse myelitis can occur at any age, affecting both adults and children, though its prevalence is quite low, estimated at between 1.34 and 4.6 cases per million people per year. Despite its rarity, the impact of this condition on a person's life can be profound, making understanding and managing it crucial.

Causes

The exact cause of transverse myelitis is often difficult to pinpoint. However, it's understood that the inflammation that leads to the damage of the spinal cord may result from viral infections, abnormal immune reactions, or insufficient blood flow through the vessels located in the spinal cord. In some cases, transverse myelitis is associated with autoimmune diseases like multiple sclerosis or neuromyelitis optica. Environmental factors and genetic predisposition may also play roles in the development of this condition.

Signs and symptoms

The symptoms of transverse myelitis can develop over several hours to a few weeks. They include: - Pain, often starting in the lower back - Sharp pain that radiates down the legs or arms or around the torso - Abnormal sensations (tingling, numbness, or coldness) - Weakness in arms or legs - Bladder and bowel dysfunction - Partial or total paralysis

Diagnosing Transverse myelitis

Diagnosing transverse myelitis involves a thorough evaluation of medical history, a physical examination, and typically, several tests. Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) is used to visualize the extent of inflammation across the spinal cord. Lumbar puncture (spinal tap) might be performed to analyze cerebrospinal fluid for infections or inflammatory markers. Blood tests can help rule out other conditions that mimic transverse myelitis, like multiple sclerosis or vitamin B12 deficiency.

Prevention and natural treatment

There's no known way to prevent transverse myelitis completely due to its varied and often unclear causes. However, general health maintenance, like infection prevention and managing autoimmune diseases, may reduce one's risk. Treatment for transverse myelitis focuses on addressing the inflammation in the spinal cord and managing symptoms. In the acute phase, high-dose corticosteroids are typically administered to reduce inflammation. Plasma exchange therapy might be considered for those who don't respond to steroids. Pain management, antiviral medication (if a specific virus is identified), and physical therapy are integral parts of the treatment plan. In the realm of functional medicine, treatment may also involve nutritional support to enhance the immune system and reduce inflammation. Omega-3 fatty acids, turmeric, and other natural anti-inflammatory substances, alongside a balanced diet rich in vegetables, fruits, and whole grains, can contribute to overall health. Acupuncture and massage therapy may offer relief from pain and muscle stiffness. It's also imperative to maintain an active, healthy lifestyle to aid in recovery and possibly prevent future episodes. Engaging with a healthcare provider familiar with both conventional and alternative treatments is essential for creating a tailored, effective treatment plan for transverse myelitis.

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