Complementary and alternative medicines and ALS

Complementary and alternative medicines (CAMs) are medical practices and products that are not part of conventional medical practice, including drugs, diets, mind–body approaches, herbs, and exercises. Given the lack of conventional treatments, it is worth exploring alternative medicines, with the aim of improving the general well-being of the person with ALS. CAMs should be approached with an open attitude by the physicians, who can recognize the potential not only for the treatment itself, but also for re-establishing a sort of perceived control. Some of these treatments have provided interesting results. In particular, the uses of hypnosis and meditation have been explored more rigorously. Both approaches lead to an improvement of well-being and a reduction of psychological distress.