Non-drug therapies are an essential part of the management of ALS. These include lifestyle changes such as eating easy-to-swallow foods, which is advised especially in the early stages of the disease.
Physiotherapy to tackle pain and mobility and the use of equipment such as braces or a wheelchair can help prolong independence.
Occupational therapists can also provide advice regarding adaptations in the home.
Since the muscles involved in speech are affected, speech therapy can help ALS patients make themselves understood and explore other methods of communication including computerized voice synthesizers.
When breathing becomes more difficult, equipment may be required at night. In the later stages of the disease, a ventilator attached to a breathing tube inserted into the windpipe may be necessary.
