Occupation-Based Intervention for People With Multiple Sclerosis: A Feasibility Study.

BACKGROUND

This study aims to evaluate the feasibility of an occupation-based intervention (OBI) on dexterity and occupational performance for people with multiple sclerosis (MS) and to gather preliminary efficacy data.

METHODS

In this feasibility study, 2 women with MS participated in 12 OBI sessions that focused on increasing upper extremity function. The Canadian Occupational Performance Measure, 9-Hole Peg Test, Expanded Disability Status Scale, Montreal Cognitive Assessment, and Fatigue Severity Scale (FSS) were used as outcome measures. The scores of these assessments are reported descriptively.

RESULTS

According to preliminary data, both participants demonstrated improvements in dexterity, occupational performance, and occupational performance satisfaction. These data suggest that OBI may be implemented effectively in Iran.

CONCLUSIONS

OBI improved the functional use of the participants' upper extremities as well as their occupational performance and satisfaction with their occupational performance in each of the 2 women with MS. This preliminary intervention program should be further tested using randomized controlled trials.