Scleroderma

There are two main types of scleroderma:

  • Localized (morphea, linear scleroderma, en coup)
  • Systemic (limited/CREST, diffuse, overlap)

Localized Scleroderma affects the skin, and sometimes the subcutaneous tissue, fascia, muscle and bone. It does not reduce life expectancy, and often improves or resolves with time.

Systemic Scleroderma (systemic sclerosis) can affect the entire body, including: skin, joints, internal organs and blood vessels. Systemic scleroderma may progress rapidly and be fatal, or limit itself to skin symptoms for decades before affecting the internal organs.

With advances in medicine, the prognosis has become significantly better. The incidence of systemic scleroderma is 4 times more common in women, and reaches its peak incidence between the ages of 20-50 years old. No drug can stop the progression of systemic scleroderma, but they can relieve symptoms and reduce organ damage. NSAIDs, corticosteroids and immunosuppressants are commonly used medical treatments. Other treatments vary based on the organ system involved. Naturopathic medicine seeks to identify and treat the underlying trigger(s) that promote immune dysregulation. The natural treatments applied may include:

  • Botanical medicine
  • Diet counselling
  • Homeopathy
  • Hormone regulation with either botanical medicine or bioidentical hormones
  • Hydrotherapy
  • Lifestyle counselling
  • Low-level laser therapy
  • Nutraceuticals

The duration of treatment will vary based on the complexity of the case, but generally it is advised that patients commit 6-12 months to rebalancing the body and optimizing outcomes. Overall, Naturopathic treatment will help to reduce the intensity of the symptoms, slow disease progression and improve quality of life.

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