[Use of alternative treatments by patients with multiple sclerosis].
OBJECTIVE
Survey on the use of alternative treatments by patients with multiple sclerosis (MS).


METHODS
Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam.


METHODS
Descriptive.


METHODS
A structured telephone interview was conducted with 100 MS patients randomly selected from the membership list of the Dutch Multiple Sclerosis Society.


RESULTS
At the time of the survey 26% of the 88 respondents reported current use of alternative treatments. An additional 42% reported use of alternative treatments in the past, but had ceased to take them. The currently most frequently used treatment was homeopathy followed by vitamin treatments, paranormal treatments and phytotherapy. The treatments most used in the past were paranormal treatments, homeopathic remedies and enzyme therapy. Recommendations by friends and relatives were strong incentives to start alternative treatment. Patients ceased using these treatments when the treatments proved ineffective. In general, the current users of alternative treatments had a favourable impression of their alternative therapist.


CONCLUSIONS
When compared with patients with other chronic diseases, the use of alternative treatments by MS patients is high.
van der Ploeg
H M
HM
Vrije Universiteit, vakgroep Medische Psychologie, Amsterdam.
Molenaar
M J
MJ
van Tiggelen
C W
CW
D000328:Adult; D000368:Aged; D000529:Complementary Therapies; D005260:Female; D006705:Homeopathy; D006801:Humans; D008297:Male; D008875:Middle Aged; D009042:Motivation; D009103:Multiple Sclerosis / Q000523:psychology / Q000628:therapy*; D009426:Netherlands; D010946:Plants, Medicinal; D011795:Surveys and Questionnaires; D014815:Vitamins / Q000627:therapeutic use
D014815:Vitamins
Gebruik van alternatieve behandelwijzen door patiënten met multipele sclerose.