A CA Journal of Chiropractic 1979; 13: S37-S46
ABSTRACT: Multiple sclerosis is a disease of unknown etiology characterized by wide-spread occurrence of patches of demyelination in the nervous system. This disorder may present with signs or symptoms of motor weakness, incoordination, dysarthria, or sensory, ocular, auditory, vestibular and mental disturbances. Diagnosis requires a complete neurological history and examination plus access to such tests as visual and auditory evoked responses, cerebrospinal fluid analysis, computerized tomography and myelograpy. Proposed theories for the pathogenesis of multiple sclerosis include genetic predisposition, viral infection, immunologic defects and abnormal fatty acid metabolism. There is no known cure for multiple sclerosis and most treatment is geared towards general support during acute exacerbations followed by rehabilitation and palliation of symptoms. The prognosis is variable. All primary contact health practitioners should be familiar with this disease in order to assure optimum patient care. Research on possible effects of chiropractic care on multiple sclerosis has not been carried out.