Hi Guys and Gals!

The following statement appeared in the December, 2003, issue of the Multiple
Sclerosis Foundation's online newsletter:

"For the first time, the United Kingdom's National Health Service (NHS) has
officially recognized the role of complementary therapies for treating MS.
The partial endorsement of the benefits from such treatments for MS came from
the National Institute for Clinical Excellence (NICE). For those desperate to
find relief from chronic pain, fatigue, and other debilitating symptoms, this
step forward by NICE is a significant one.

The MS guidelines target health professionals, but still leave most of the
medical and financial burden of complementary medicine on the patient. But now,
doctors will mention the option of alternative treatment and inform patients
that there is "some evidence to suggest" potential benefits - although there is
not enough evidence to make absolute recommendations.

The sanctioned treatments include tai chi, magnetic field therapy, massage, and
reflexology."