Article

OBJECTIVE: To develop and test the feasibility of an energy conservation
programme to manage fatigue in multiple sclerosis. DESIGN: A pilot randomized
controlled trial. SETTING: Community setting.
SUBJECTS: People with multiple
sclerosis reporting fatigue. INTERVENTIONS: An energy conservation programme was
compared to a peer support group. Both interventions were delivered in group
format with 2-hour sessions once a week for five weeks. Patients' views about the
interventions were sought in discussion groups one week post intervention. MAIN
MEASURES: The primary feasibility outcomes were recruitment and adherence. Other
outcome measures were the Fatigue Impact Scale, Fatigue Severity Scale, MS-Impact
Scale-29, MS Self-efficacy Scale, Beck's Depression Scale-Fast Screen and Epworth
Sleepiness Scale. Outcomes were administered at baseline, post intervention,
6-week and 3-month follow-up. RESULTS: Almost 30% of the people approached to
take part in the study did not commit to participation because of transport/time
issues. Twenty-three patients took part in the study. Three patients dropped out,
one reporting adverse effects. A power calculation indicated that a sample of 56
(28 per group) would be required for a main randomized controlled trial. Patients
valued peer support and those in the energy conservation group described the
programme as useful, but reported difficulties completing some practice
activities. CONCLUSION: An energy conservation programme in the community is
feasible and welcomed by people with multiple sclerosis. However, future research
needs to consider longer follow-ups and practical issues to improve recruitment
rate by accommodating to patients' needs.

Langue : ANGLAIS