Use and Perceived Effectiveness of Energy Conservation Strategies for Managing Multiple Sclerosis Fatigue

Abstract

This study describes the use and perceived effectiveness of energy conservation strategies by persons with multiple sclerosis after participation in an energy conservation course. One hundred twenty-three participants completed a survey about their use of energy conservation strategies. All strategies were newly used by at least 50% of the participants and rated as effective. Strategies that involved rest and delegation were used most and rated most effective, followed by modifying priorities and standards. The most common reason for not implementing strategies was that participants were already using them. Persons with multiple sclerosis who participated in an energy conservation course implemented a number of new energy conservation strategies and reported them as effective.