Pilot study of participating in a fatigue management programme for clients with multiple sclerosis.

Abstract

The purpose of this study was to examine the experience of participating in a community-based fatigue management programme for people with multiple sclerosis (MS). Eight people with MS who participated in an 8-week community-based fatigue management programme were interviewed using a semi-structured, open-ended interview protocol. Data were analysed using constant comparative analysis informed by a phenomenological perspective. Participants experienced ownership, active participation and empowerment. Participants' fatigue was legitimised and validated, and participants described a shared experience and shared voice. Outcomes identified by participants included: lifestyle and occupational changes, altered thinking about fatigue and the development of social supports. Participants' experience of the community-based fatigue management programme was described in positive terms with unanticipated benefits and outcomes described.