Evaluation of an Online Fatigue Self-management Program

Summary

Multiple Sclerosis (MS) is typically diagnosed in early adulthood when people are in establishing careers and families. Fatigue is described as one of the worst symptoms and the one most difficult to treat. This study will evaluate the effectiveness of an online fatigue self-management program to help people living with MS and fatigue.

One of the outcomes has been a two-day face-to-face workshop for ten MS therapists in Western Australia. The training involved theory and practical scenarios using a range of strategies.

Prof Packer has also conducted a partially randomised clinical trial to compare face-to-face programs with an online equivalent and with people without any intervention.

Once the data is available from this trial, Prof Packer will try to identify predictors that can identify individuals likely to improve through this approach.

This trial continued in 2009 with more participants and changes to the protocol than previously envisioned.

Publications

Drury, V., Packer, T., Doorey, J., Ghahari, S., & Crowley, M. (Under review). Self-management education requirements for healthcare professionals – filling the gaps.
Ghahari, S., Packer, T., & Passmore, A. (in press). Development, standardisation and pilot testing of an online fatigue self-management program. Disability and Rehabilitation, 00(0), 1-11.
Ghahari, S., Packer, T., & Passmore, A. (Under review). Effectiveness of an online fatigue self-management program: A randomised controlled trial.
Khemthong, S. Packer, T.L., Passmore, A & Dhaliwal, S.S. (2008) Does social leisure contribute to physical health in multiple sclerosis related fatigue? Annuals in Therapeutic Recreation, 16:71-80.

Updated: 06 January, 2008