Efficacy of an energy conservation course for persons with multiple sclerosis.

OBJECTIVE

To evaluate the efficacy of an energy conservation course on fatigue impact, self-efficacy, and quality of life (QOL) for persons with multiple sclerosis (MS).

DESIGN

Repeated measures with control and experimental interventions conducted during a 19-week study.

SETTING

Community-based treatment center.

PARTICIPANTS

A convenience sample of 54 individuals from 79 community-dwelling volunteers with fatigue secondary to MS.

INTERVENTION

A 6-session, 2-hr/wk energy conservation course taught by occupational therapists for groups of 8 to 10 participants.

MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES

Fatigue Impact Scale (self-report measure of fatigue impact on cognitive, physical, social functions), Self-Efficacy Gauge (self-report measure of confidence in ability to perform specific behaviors), and Medical Outcomes Study Short-Form Health Survey (QOL measure).

RESULTS

Participants reported, as predicted, significantly less fatigue impact, increased self-efficacy, and improved QOL (ie, 3 of 4 subscales expected to improve). There were no significant differences, as predicted, in any of the dependent variables after the control (ie, support group) and no intervention periods.

CONCLUSION

Results provide strong evidence for the efficacy of this energy conservation course for persons with MS.