What is liberation therapy?

Winnipeg Free Press - PRINT EDITION

By: Staff Writer

Posted: 1:00 AM | Comments:

'LIBERATION THERAPY' is the name given to a controversial process of treating multiple sclerosis (MS).

In 2009, Italian vascular surgeon Paulo Zamboni claimed to have found a connection between MS and constricted veins in the neck. His procedure involved putting small balloons through the veins, like angioplasty used to clear blocked arteries.

Initially, the Internet was full of stories of miraculous recoveries after this procedure. However, more people are saying the procedure did not work for them, or that any improvements from liberation therapy didn't last.

The federal government is funding a national clinical study of liberation therapy. Up to 25 Manitobans with MS will undergo the liberation treatment, along with samples of people in other provinces. It will be a double-blind study, with some people getting the treatment, and some getting sham treatment. However, people who receive the placebo will have the opportunity to receive liberation therapy after the study. The study in Manitoba is being managed by the Manitoba Health Research Council.

The four types of MS

Relapsing remitting MS: Typified by attacks that last a few hours to a few months, but there is complete recovery or near complete recovery between attacks for a few months or even years.

Secondary progressive MS: Distinct relapses and remissions diminish over time and the disease steadily worsens. Occasional flare-ups, minor improvements and even periods of stability may occur, but overall the picture is one of accumulating disability.

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What is liberation therapy?