Supporting MS Symptoms with Acupuncture and Massage Therapy in Calgary
Living with Multiple Sclerosis (MS) can feel unpredictable. Symptoms fluctuate, new challenges arise, and it’s hard to know what will actually help. At Same Stars Wellness, we understand that MS requires more than just conventional care. Our acupuncture and massage therapy treatments offer supportive, science-backed relief that works alongside your existing medical team.
In a previous post, we explored MS-related concerns like neuropathy, foot drop, and temperature dysregulation. But those are just part of the picture. Today, we’re focusing on other common MS symptoms—and how our therapies can help.
Muscle Spasticity and Stiffness
Spasticity (muscle tightness or involuntary spasms) is a common MS symptom that can make movement difficult and sleep uncomfortable.
How Acupuncture Helps: Acupuncture calms overactive nerve signals and supports better neuromuscular regulation. Many clients report reduced tightness and improved mobility after regular treatments.
How Massage Therapy Helps: Massage therapy helps reduce muscle tension, improve circulation, and lengthen tight or shortened muscles—particularly in the hips, back, and legs. Gentle movement and stretching can also restore range of motion and reduce stiffness.
Bladder Dysfunction
MS can disrupt bladder control, causing urgency, frequency, or incontinence. It’s often one of the most frustrating symptoms to manage.
How Acupuncture Helps: Acupuncture has been shown to support the autonomic nervous system, which helps regulate bladder function. Targeted points may reduce symptoms and complement your urologist’s care plan.
How Massage Therapy Helps: While massage therapy doesn’t treat bladder issues directly, it can support pelvic relaxation and reduce muscle guarding in the lower abdomen and hips—especially in clients who feel tension from managing ongoing symptoms.
Fatigue
This isn’t your average tiredness—MS fatigue is often intense, unpredictable, and unrelieved by rest. It affects everything from mood to mobility.
How Acupuncture Helps: Acupuncture can support energy regulation and reduce the systemic inflammation that contributes to fatigue. Many patients experience deeper sleep and more daytime energy with consistent care.
How Massage Therapy Helps: Massage therapy activates the parasympathetic nervous system—your body’s rest-and-restore mode—helping you recharge, sleep better, and reduce the discomfort that worsens fatigue.
Emotional Health
Mood swings, anxiety, and depression are common in MS. Neurological changes and the emotional toll of chronic illness often go hand in hand.
How Acupuncture Helps: Acupuncture helps regulate stress hormones like cortisol and supports mood-balancing neurotransmitters. It can leave you feeling calmer, clearer, and more emotionally balanced.
How Massage Therapy Helps: Massage therapy reduces stress and promotes the release of serotonin and dopamine—your body’s natural feel-good chemicals. Many clients say they feel more grounded and less overwhelmed after each appointment.
Cognitive Fog (“Cog Fog”)
MS-related brain fog can impact memory, focus, and processing speed. It’s frustrating and isolating—and it’s real.
How Acupuncture Helps: Acupuncture may improve cerebral blood flow and modulate inflammation, which can support clearer thinking and cognitive function over time.
How Massage Therapy Helps: Massage therapy can help indirectly by improving sleep, reducing sensory overload, and encouraging nervous system regulation. Craniosacral therapy—offered by some of our massage therapists—can be especially helpful for clients experiencing fogginess or sensory overwhelm.
You’re Not Alone—And You Deserve Care That Works
MS doesn’t follow a straight path, and neither should your care. At Same Stars Wellness, we offer personalized, respectful treatments that support you wherever you're at. Whether you're newly diagnosed or have been managing MS for years, our experienced team is here to help reduce symptoms and improve your quality of life—one visit at a time.
Local MS Resources We Love
You don’t have to navigate MS alone. These Calgary-based organizations offer education, community, and additional support:
MS Wellness Centre – Foothills Medical Centre
Let’s build your personalized care strategy.
Our Calgary acupuncture and massage therapy team has advanced training in neurological care, chronic pain, and long-term support. Whether you're looking for help with fatigue, spasticity, or emotional well-being—we’re here.
📍 Conveniently located in Bridgeland
📅 Booking is easy online
👐 New patients are always welcome
