Alternative &
Complimentary Therapies
Anyone can have a seizure, but for those of us with seizure disorders, it takes a lot less to push us over the threshold.
That means that even a little bit of stress can be enough to tip the scales and trigger a seizure. Managing stress isn’t just helpful; it’s a critical part of taking care of ourselves.
Learning how to utilize a mix of stress reduction methods such as chiropractic care, acupuncture, meditation, yoga, and regular exercise, aren’t just good for reducing stress; they also help ease the physical toll that seizures take on our bodies.
It’s all about finding what modalities works for you, and making it a part of your routine to help manage your epilepsy effectively.
acupuncture
Acupuncture is a traditional Chinese practice involving the insertion of fine needles into specific points on the body to promote healing and reduce symptoms.
The benefit for people with epilepsy is that it helps manage stress and improve overall neurological function, which may in turn help reduce the frequency and severity of seizures.
cannabis/cannabidoil
We don’t have a lot of information about cannabis and it’s effect on seizures yet that’s not anecdotal, but it has been found to be helpful for pain, anxiety, and stress management, and that in and of itself can help prevent seizures.
Read more about it on the Neurology Center for Epilepsy and Seizures website
chiropractic care
Chiropractic care focuses on maintaining proper spinal alignment to support overall nervous system function.
Regular chiropractic adjustments may help reduce stress and enhance nerve function, potentially leading to fewer seizures and improved seizure management.
ketogenic diet
The ketogenic diet has been used for nearly a century, and has proven to be successful in helping some control and/or reduce the amount of seizures they have. When it works, it’s primarily in children.
It is not an easy diet to follow however. It requires careful planning and medical supervision, so do not attempt to try it without discussing and working with your doctor.
Read more about the Ketogenic Diet on the Epilepsy Foundation’s Website
yoga & meditation
Yoga and meditation offer powerful benefits by promoting relaxation, enhancing mental clarity, and reducing stress, which can trigger seizures.
These practices improve both physical and emotional well-being, potentially leading to fewer seizures and a greater sense of control over one's health.
Read more about these practices on the Brain Center’s website
Read this study on the proven benefits of yoga on ScienceDirect
exercise
Regular exercise can be a valuable tool as it enhances overall health, reduces stress, and produces more endorphins which boosts your mood—all factors that can contribute to better seizure control.
Engaging in physical activity may also help stabilize neurological function and improve sleep, further supporting seizure management.