Living with multiple sclerosis as a child can be incredibly challenging. However, there are several ways to reduce and manage a child’s MS symptoms. There is no need for little ones to live in pain thanks to these pain mitigation methods that have been found to effectively reduce the symptoms of MS in children. 

Here are five ways you can reduce MS symptoms in children.

Incorporate Anti-inflammatory Foods and Supplements

Anti-inflammatory foods and supplements will reduce the inflammation within the body, which can provide a welcome relief to the immense pain children may feel sometimes. Common foods that people living with MS swear by are wild sockeye salmon and turmeric powder. Salmon is packed with healthy omega-3 fatty acids. Turmeric has powerful anti-inflammatory compounds. Integrating both of these foods into a child’s diet can substantially lessen the symptoms of MS.

Take a Vitamin D Supplement

Studies have found that people who suffer from MS tend to show up in areas where there is not a great deal of sun exposure. To combat this, children should take a vitamin D supplement. Since the sun is the primary source of vitamin D for us, taking a supplement is essential when they are unable to get sun exposure. Alternatively, children can consume their Vitamin D naturally by spending about 20 minutes per day outside in the sunlight. 

Get a Massage

When children regularly get therapeutic massages, they can gain greater flexibility in their joints and may even see a reduction in muscle spasms. Massages can also lower stress, anxiety, and depression which are all common secondary systems that occur in children with MS. 

Start Exercising 

While you may believe moving around will lead to more pain, the opposite is true when done through exercise. You can take children to go swimming, ride a bike, go for a walk, or even try some yoga. All of these activities help strengthen their muscles so that their bodies can be properly supported. 

Stop Drinking Soft Drinks

This may be a difficult one for some, but it’s critical for those who suffer from MS to stop drinking soda. The large quantities of high fructose corn syrup and artificial ingredients can wreck immune systems. Avoiding sugary drinks and opting for flavored seltzer, and other healthy beverages, will ensure that your child’s MS symptoms don’t flare up because of what they’re drinking. 

Wrapping Up

While children may be unable to release themselves from the hold MS has over them, there are ways to loosen its grip. Despite the hardships caused by MS, these tips can help reduce MS symptoms and allow your child to focus solely on just being a kid.