A longitudinal study on effects of a six-week course for energy conservation for multiple sclerosis patients

Objective Fatigue management and energy conservation are effective strategies to minimize fatigue in multiple sclerosis (MS). Sustained results have not yet been reported. Methods A fatigue management course was provided for 32 MS patients. They were tested prior to, directly after participation in the course and in a 7-9 month follow-up with the Fatigue Severity Scale, the MS-specific Fatigue Scale, the Modified Fatigue Impact Scale (MFIS), the Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index and a self-rating scale for depression. The Expanded Disability Status Score (EDSS) and the MS functional composite (MSFC) were evaluated before and after participation in the course. Results The total score and the Cognitive and Physical subscores of the MFIS showed significant improvements on both points of time. Scores in the Fatigue Severity Scale, MS-specific Fatigue Scale and Psychosocial Fatigue Impact Scale did not improve significantly. MS functional composite and EDSS remained unchanged after six weeks of course participation. Subjective sleep quality improved directly after participation in the course and after 7-9 months. The depression score decreased significantly to a normal level at the end of training and in the 7-9 month follow-up. Conclusion Fatigue management enables MS patients to cope with their fatigue and energy more effectively. Follow-up evaluations showed stable results after 7-9 months.