Characteristics and expectations of people with multiple sclerosis using complementary therapies : A cross-sectional survey from the swiss multiple sclerosis registry

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Abstract

Background: Understanding the characteristics and expectations of people with multiple sclerosis (pwMS) who utilize complementary therapies can help integrate these therapies into conventional care. Objectives: To describe the characteristics of pwMS who use complementary therapies, their general reasons and targeted symptoms, and their expectations regarding the effects of these therapies. Methods: A cross-sectional survey of pwMS from the Swiss Multiple Sclerosis Registry was conducted from October 2022 to August 2023. Results: 888 pwMS participated (39.3 % participation rate). 48.2 % had used complementary therapies in the last six months. The most typical reasons were to improve quality of life (43.9 %) and alleviate MS symptoms (37.8 %). Participants expected manual therapies and natural substances to be most effective for physiological complaints, with median effectiveness scores of 7 (interquartile range [IQR]: 5–9 and 5–8). Mind-body therapies and natural substances were also expected to be the most effective for psychological complaints (median of 7 and 6, IQR: 3.5–8 and 3–8). Complementary therapies were considered safe (median safety scores ranging from 7 to 9). Conclusions: PwMS frequently use complementary therapies, and their reasons and expectations can differ. Understanding the characteristics of pwMS who use complementary therapies, their reasons for use, and their expectations can support tailoring MS treatment.