Setting meaningful goals in rehabilitation: A qualitative study on the experiences of clients and clinicians in working with a practical tool

Objective

To evaluate the experience of clients and clinicians in working with a tool to help set goals that are personally meaningful to rehabilitation clients.

Design

We have applied the tool in the outpatient rehabilitation setting. Clients’ and clinicians’ experiences in working with the tool were evaluated in individual, semi-structured interviews and focus group interviews, respectively. Thematic analysis was used to analyze the data.

Setting

A university medical center and a rehabilitation center.

Subjects

Clients with a first-time stroke (n = 8) or multiple sclerosis (n = 10), and clinicians (n = 38).

Intervention

The tool to help set meaningful goals consisted of a session (i) to explore the client's fundamental beliefs, goals and attitudes and (ii) to identify a meaningful overall rehabilitation goal. The results of that session were used by the multidisciplinary rehabilitation team (iii) to help the client to set specific rehabilitation goals that served to achieve the meaningful overall rehabilitation goal.

Results

Both clients and clinicians reported that the tool helped to set a meaningful overall rehabilitation goal and specific goals that became meaningful as they served to achieve the overall goal. This contributed to clients’ intrinsic rehabilitation motivation. In some clients, the meaningfulness of the rehabilitation goals facilitated the process of behavior change. Both clients and clinicians made suggestions on how the tool could be further improved.

Conclusion

In the opinion of both clients and clinicians, the tool does indeed result in goal setting that is personally meaningful. Further development, implementation and evaluation of the tool is warranted.

Smartphone-derived keystroke dynamics are sensitive to relevant changes in multiple sclerosis

Background

To investigate smartphone keystroke dynamics (KD), derived from regular typing, on sensitivity to relevant change in disease activity, fatigue, and clinical disability in multiple sclerosis (MS).

Methods

Preplanned interim analysis of a cohort study with 102 MS patients assessed at baseline and 3‐month follow‐up for gadolinium‐enhancing lesions on magnetic resonance imaging, relapses, fatigue and clinical disability outcomes. Keyboard interactions were unobtrusively collected during typing using the Neurokeys App. From these interactions 15 keystroke features were derived and aggregated using 16 summary and time series statistics. Responsiveness of KD to clinical anchor‐based change was assessed by calculating the area under the receiver operating characteristic curve (AUC). The optimal cut‐point was used to determine the minimal clinically important difference (MCID) and compared to the smallest real change (SRC). Commonly used clinical measures were analyzed for comparison.

Results

A total of 94 patients completed the follow‐up. The five best performing keystroke features had AUC‐values in the range 0.72–0.78 for change in gadolinium‐enhancing lesions, 0.67–0.70 for the Checklist Individual Strength Fatigue subscale, 0.66–0.79 for the Expanded Disability Status Scale, 0.69–0.73 for the Ambulation Functional System, and 0.72–0.75 for Arm function in MS Questionnaire. The MCID of these features exceeded the SRC on group level. KD had higher AUC‐values than comparative clinical measures for the study outcomes, aside from ambulatory function.

Conclusions

Keystroke dynamics demonstrated good responsiveness to changes in disease activity, fatigue, and clinical disability in MS, and detected important change beyond measurement error on group level. Responsiveness of KD was better than commonly used clinical measures.

The Transmural Trauma Care Model can be implemented well but some barriers and facilitators should be considered during implementation: a mixed methods study

QUESTIONS

What is the reach, dose delivered, dose received and fidelity of the Transmural Trauma Care Model (TTCM)? What are the barriers and facilitators associated with the implementation of the TTCM?

DESIGN

Mixed-methods process evaluation with quantitative evaluation of the extent to which the TTCM was implemented as intended and qualitative evaluation of barriers and facilitators to its implementation.

PARTICIPANTS

Focus group participants included trauma patients, trauma surgeons, hospital-based physiotherapists and primary care network physiotherapists.

OUTCOME MEASURES

Implementation was assessed with reach, dose delivered, dose received and fidelity.

DATA ANALYSIS

A framework method was used to analyse the focus groups and the 'constellation approach' was used to categorise barriers and facilitators into three categories: structure, culture and practice.

RESULTS

The TTCM's reach was 81%, its dose delivered was 99% and 100%, and its dose received was 95% and 96% for the multidisciplinary TTCM consultation hours at the outpatient clinic for trauma patients and the primary care network physiotherapists, respectively. Various fidelity scores ranged from 66 to 93%. Numerous barriers and facilitators associated with the implementation of the TTCM were identified and categorised.

CONCLUSION

This process evaluation showed that the TTCM was largely implemented as intended. Furthermore, various facilitators and barriers were identified that need to be considered when implementing the TTCM more widely. Differences were found among stakeholders but they were generally of the opinion that if the barriers were overcome, the quality of care and patient satisfaction were likely to improve significantly after implementing the TTCM.

REGISTRATION

NTR5474.

Using a BonE BiOPsy (BeBoP) to determine the causative agent in persons with diabetes and foot osteomyelitis: study protocol for a multicentre, randomised controlled trial

BACKGROUND

Diabetic foot osteomyelitis (DFO) poses a major disease burden. It can generally be treated with long-term antibacterial therapy. International guidelines recommend to base antibacterial therapy choices on percutaneous bone biopsy culture, while in practice, therapy is frequently based on (less invasive) ulcer bed cultures. It is currently unknown if treatment outcomes of DFO differ depending on the chosen diagnostic strategy.

METHODS

The BeBoP trial is a multicentre; randomised controlled; physician-, researcher- and subject-blinded; clinical trial comparing two diagnostic strategies in persons with DFO. Culture-directed antibacterial therapy will be based on either percutaneous bone biopsy culture results (intervention group) or ulcer bed biopsy culture results (comparison group). We will enrol 80 subjects with diabetes mellitus (≥ 18 years) and DFO, and we will use block randomisation stratified per centre to randomise them in a 1:1 allocation. The primary outcome is remission of DFO 12 months after enrolment. The secondary outcomes are the time to remission, signs of inflammation or ulceration at the primary location of infection at 6 and 12 months, microbiological and molecular profiles of culture outcomes, surgical interventions including amputation, total antibacterial therapy duration, infection-free survival days, adverse events, quality of life and survival. We will compare the outcomes by intention-to-treat and per-protocol analysis.

DISCUSSION

We aim to compare clinical remission in persons with DFO treated with antibacterial therapy based on either percutaneous bone biopsy culture results or ulcer bed biopsy culture results.

TRIAL REGISTRATION

Netherlands Trial Register NL 7582 . Registered on 05 March 2019.

Development of an ICF Core Set for adults with cerebral palsy: capturing their perspective on functioning

AIM

To examine the most relevant aspects of functioning of adults with cerebral palsy (CP) from their perspective, in order to develop an International Classification of Functioning, Disability and Health (ICF) Core Set for adults with CP.

METHOD

We conducted six focus group discussions with adults with CP without intellectual disability and seven interviews with adults with CP with intellectual disability and caregivers, addressing all ICF components. Meaningful concepts were identified from verbatim transcripts and linked to ICF categories by two independent researchers.

RESULTS

In total, 31 adults with CP without intellectual disability (mean [SD] age 46y 1mo [14y 1mo]; 20 females, 11 males; Gross Motor Function Classification System [GMFCS] levels I-IV) and seven adults with CP and intellectual disability (mean [SD] age 25y 8mo [6y 8mo]; four females, three males; GMFCS levels III-V) participated. We identified 132 unique second-level categories: 47 body functions, seven body structures, 43 activities and participation, and 35 environmental factors. The most frequently mentioned categories were emotional function, pain, muscle tone function, support of family, products and technology, and health services.

INTERPRETATION

Adults with CP experienced problems in a broad range of body functions and activities and indicated the importance of environmental factors for functioning. The identified categories will be added to the list of candidate items to reach consensus on an ICF Core Set for adults with CP. What this paper adds Including the lived experience is crucial for fully understanding functioning of adults with cerebral palsy (CP). Adults with CP perceive environmental factors as essential elements for everyday functioning. Adults with intellectual disability should be considered as a group with specific problems.

Effectiveness and cost-effectiveness of the Transmural Trauma Care Model investigated in a multicenter trial with a controlled before-and-after design: A study protocol

OBJECTIVE

The rehabilitation of trauma patients in primary care is challenging, and there are no guidelines for optimal treatment. Also, the organization of care is not well-structured. The Transmural Trauma Care Model (TTCM) has been developed in the Netherlands, aiming to improve patient outcomes by optimizing the organization and the quality of the rehabilitation process in primary care. A recent feasibility study showed that implementation of the TTCM at a Dutch Level 1 trauma center was feasible, patient outcomes were improved, and costs were reduced. This study aims to assess the effectiveness and cost-effectiveness of the TTCM compared to the usual care in a multicenter trial.

METHODS

A multicenter trial with a controlled before-and-after design will be performed at 10 hospitals in the Netherlands. First, participating hospitals will include 322 patients in the control group, receiving usual care as provided in these specific hospitals. Subsequently, the TTCM will be implemented in all participating hospitals, and hospitals will include an additional 322 patients in the intervention group. The TTCM consists of a multidisciplinary team at the outpatient clinic (trauma surgeon and hospital-based physical therapist), an educated and trained network of primary care trauma physical therapists, and structural communication between them. Co-primary outcomes will investigate generic and disease-specific, health-related quality of life. Secondary outcomes will include pain, patient satisfaction, perceived recovery, and patient-reported physical functioning. For the economic evaluation, societal and healthcare costs will be measured. Measurements will take place at baseline and after 6 weeks, 3, 6, and 9 months. Analyses will be based on the intention-to-treat principle. Missing data will be handled using longitudinal data analyses in the effect analyses and by multivariate imputation in the economic evaluation.

CONCLUSION

This trial with a controlled before-and-after design will give insight into the effectiveness and cost-effectiveness of the TTCM in a multicenter trial.

Evidence-Based Rehabilitation for Multiple Sclerosis Made Easy: The Online Applying Evidence with Confidence (APPECO) Platform

With the current rate in growth of evidence in multiple sclerosis (MS) rehabilitation, systematic reviews and clinical guidelines typically lag behind the most currently published research findings. In addition, most health care professionals lack the time, resources, or adequate skills to identify and evaluate new evidence, and hands-on tools to implement the latest evidence into clinical practice are often lacking or not readily available. The Applying Evidence with Confidence (APPECO) platform is a newly developed online tool that addresses these key challenges. APPECO was initiated as a proof-of-concept for the common MS symptoms fatigue and cognitive function. Subsequently, intervention studies about depression, pain, and mobility were added. APPECO currently hosts detailed information from 250 randomized clinical trials, 293 interventions, and 1250 effect sizes on 53 patient outcomes. Few studies with high quality (ie, low risk of bias) are available specifically designed to test the benefits of MS rehabilitation on fatigue (n = 5 [2.4%]), cognitive function (n = 4 [1.6%]), and depression (n = 2 [0.8%]). No high-quality studies were included for pain and mobility. APPECO has the potential to address key challenges in evidence-based rehabilitation medicine for MS and to facilitate swift knowledge translation from evidence into clinical practice. Sustainability of APPECO depends on a continuous resource impulse (eg, financial, time, editorial management, platform maintenance) to ensure up-to-date information across all relevant MS symptoms and activity limitations (≈2-6 randomized controlled trials per month). Ways to optimize knowledge translation in the absence of high-quality evidence in APPECO need to be explored further.

Beyond current research practice: Methodological considerations in MS rehabilitation research (is designing the perfect rehabilitation trial the Holy Grail or a Gordian knot?)

Rehabilitation is an essential aspect of symptomatic and supportive treatment for people with multiple sclerosis (MS). The number of randomised controlled trials (RCTs) for rehabilitation interventions in MS has increased over the last two decades. The design, conduct and reporting quality of some of these trials could be improved. There are, however, some specific challenges that researchers face in conducting RCTs of rehabilitation interventions, which are often 'complex interventions'. This paper explores some of the challenges of undertaking robust clinical trials in rehabilitation. We focus on issues related to (1) participant selection and sample size, (2) interventions - the 'dose', content, active ingredients, targeting, fidelity of delivery and treatment adherence, (3) control groups and (4) outcomes - choosing the right type, number, timing of outcomes, and the importance of defining a primary outcome and clinically important difference between groups. We believe that by following internationally accepted RCT guidelines, by developing a critical mass of MS rehabilitation 'trialists' through international collaboration and by continuing to critique, challenge, and develop RCT designs, we can exploit the potential of RCTs to answer important questions related to the effectiveness of rehabilitation interventions.

Moving exercise research in multiple sclerosis forward (the MoXFo initiative): Developing consensus statements for research

Exercise as a subset of physical activity is a cornerstone in the management of multiple sclerosis (MS) based on its pleotropic effects. There is an exponential increase in the quantity of research on exercise in MS, yet a number of barriers associated with study content and quality hamper rapid progress in the field. To address these barriers and accelerate discovery, a new international partnership of MS-related experts in exercise has emerged with the goal of advancing the research agenda. As a first step, the expert panel met in May 2018 and identified the most urgent areas for moving the field forward, and discussed the framework for such a process. This led to identification of five themes, namely "Definitions and terminology," "Study methodology," "Reporting and outcomes," "Adherence to exercise," and "Mechanisms of action." Based on the identified themes, five expert groups have been formed, that will further (a) outline the challenges per theme and (b) provide recommendations for moving forward. We aim to involve and collaborate with people with MS/MS organizations (e.g. Multiple Sclerosis International Federation (MSIF) and European Multiple Sclerosis Platform (EMSP)) in all of these five themes. The generation of this thematic framework with multi-expert perspectives can bolster the quality and scope of exercise studies in MS that may ultimately improve the daily lives of people with MS.

Fatigue Profiles in Patients with Multiple Sclerosis are Based on Severity of Fatigue and not on Dimensions of Fatigue

Fatigue related to Multiple Sclerosis (MS) is considered a multidimensional symptom, manifesting in several dimensions such as physical, cognitive, and psychosocial fatigue. This study investigated in 264 patients with severe primary MS-related fatigue (median MS duration 6.8 years, mean age 48.1 years, 75% women) whether subgroups can be distinguished based on these dimensions. Subsequently, we tested whether MS-related fatigue consists of a single common unidimensional factor. Subscale scores on four self-reported fatigue questionnaires, including the Checklist of Individual Strength, the Modified Fatigue Impact Scale, the Fatigue Severity Scale and the SF36 vitality, were used in a cluster analysis to identify patients with similar fatigue characteristics. Next, all 54 items were included in exploratory factor analysis to test unidimensionality. Study results show that in patients with a treatment indication for primary MS-related fatigue, fatigue profiles are based on severity and not on the various dimensions of fatigue. The three profiles found, suggested one underlying fatigue dimension, but this could not be confirmed. Factor analysis of all 54 items resulted in 8 factors, confirming the multidimensional construct of the included fatigue questionnaires.

Diurnal Cortisol Secretion Is Not Related to Multiple Sclerosis-Related Fatigue

Some evidence supports the involvement of the hypothalamic–pituitary–adrenal axis (HPA axis) with multiple sclerosis (MS)-related fatigue. In this study, we determined the relation of HPA-axis function with primary fatigue in MS patients in the longitudinal treating fatigue in a MS cohort. MS patients from the TREeating FAtigue in MS (TREFAMS) research program that consists of three randomized controlled trials to study the effects of aerobic training, energy conservation management, and cognitive behavioral therapy on MS-related fatigue were included. The HPA-axis functioning was determined at baseline, the end of treatment (16 weeks) and after 52 weeks. The cortisol awakening response (CAR) and night-time cortisol levels were analyzed. Fatigue was measured with the fatigue subscale of the Checklist Individual Strength (CIS20r fatigue). There was no relationship between CAR and night-time cortisol parameters with CIS20r fatigue scores. Neither of the treatments influenced CAR and night-time cortisol parameters, with the exception of an effect in the energy conservation management treatment group on the CAR surge increase over 52 weeks (β = −114.8, p = 0.007, 95% CI = −197.6, −31.9). Our data suggest that the diurnal cortisol secretion is not associated with MS-related fatigue. This indicates that MS-related fatigue is not attributed to diurnal cortisol secretion and is likely caused by other disease mechanisms.

Quantifying muscle fatigue during walking in people with multiple sclerosis

BACKGROUND

This study aimed to examine muscle fatigue in lower leg muscles in of people with multiple sclerosis and healthy controls, and whether muscle fatigue coincided with potential changes in gait.

METHODS

In this case-control study, people with multiple sclerosis (n = 8; 3male; mean age (SD) = 49.7 (9.6) yr) and age-matched healthy controls (n = 10; 4male; mean age (SD) = 47.4 (8.7) yr) walked on a treadmill for 12-min at self-paced speed. Muscle fatigue was indirectly quantified by a decrease in median frequency and increase in root mean square of surface electromyographic recordings of lower leg muscles. Walking speed, ankle push-off power and net ankle work were calculated from marker positions and force plate data using inverse dynamic calculations.

RESULTS

People with multiple sclerosis showed larger decreases in median frequency of soleus (most affected leg: p = 0.003; least affected leg: p = 0.009) and larger increases in root mean square of soleus (most and least affected leg: p = 0.037), gastrocnemius medialis (most affected leg: p = 0.003; least affected leg: p = 0.005) and lateralis (most and least affected leg: p < 0.001) compared to controls. Walking speed (p = 0.001), ankle push-off power (most affected leg: p = 0.018; least affected leg: p = 0.001) and net work around the ankle (most affected leg: p = 0.046; least affected leg: p = 0.001) were lower in people with multiple sclerosis compared to controls, but increased in both groups.

INTERPRETATION

The results yield preliminary evidence that soleus muscles of people with multiple sclerosis fatigue during prolonged walking. Changes in electromyography of gastrocnemius muscles could however be related to muscle fatigue, changes in gait or a combination.

The 2-minute walk test is not a valid method to determine aerobic capacity in persons with Multiple Sclerosis

BACKGROUND:

Walking tests, like the 2-minute fast walk test, are simple, inexpensive performance-based tests, and therefore seem attractive to estimate the aerobic fitness in people with chronic diseases.

OBJECTIVE:

To determine the criterion validity of the 2-minute fast walk test for estimating aerobic capacity in patients with Multiple Sclerosis (MS), by comparing it with the peak oxygen uptake (VO2peak in mL/kg/min) as measured by Cardiopulmonary Exercise Testing (CPET) on a cycle ergometer.

METHODS:

The 2 min fast walk test was performed on a marked indoor trajectory, using a static start protocol. Aerobic capacity (VO2peak, in mL/kg/min) was derived from CPET on a cycle ergometer. Criterion validity was tested by means of Pearson’s correlation coefficient and should be at least 0.70 for a good criterion validity of the 2 min walk test. Linear regression analysis was applied to more precisely estimate VO2peak.

RESULTS:

In total 141 people with severe MS-related fatigue (mean age 47.0 years (range 23–68 years), 73% women, median disease duration 7.8 years (range 0.3 – 28.7 years)) performed both tests. The distance walked in two minutes ranged from 52.0 to 290.0 m (mean 175.1 m, sd 44.9 m), while the VO2peak varied between 11.31 and 40.28 mL/kg/min (mean 22.52 mL/kg/min, sd 6.07 mL/kg/min). The correlation between the 2 min walk test and VO2peak was 0.441 (95% CI: 0.309–0.570). The absolute residual error in estimated VO2peak was 5.47 mL/kg/min.

CONCLUSIONS:

Due to the poor correlation found between the 2 min walk test and VO2peak, the 2-min walk test cannot be recommended as a valid alternative for estimating aerobic capacity in persons with MS.

Testing non-inferiority of blended versus face-to-face cognitive behavioural therapy for severe fatigue in patients with multiple sclerosis and the effectiveness of blended booster sessions aimed at improving long-term outcome following both therapies: study protocol for two observer-blinded randomized clinical trials

BACKGROUND

Cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT) has been found to be effective in reducing fatigue severity in MS patients directly following treatment. However, long-term effects are inconsistent leaving room for improvement. In addition, individual face-to-face CBT draws heavily on limited treatment capacity, and the travel distance to the treatment centre can be burdensome for patients. Therefore, we developed "MS Fit", a blended CBT for MS-related fatigue, based on a face-to-face CBT protocol found effective in a previous study, and "MS Stay Fit", internet-based booster sessions to improve long-term effectiveness of CBT for MS-related fatigue. This article presents the protocol of two randomised clinical trials (RCTs) conducted within one study investigating (1) the non-inferiority of MS Fit compared with evidence-based face-to-face CBT for MS-related fatigue and (2) the effectiveness of MS Stay Fit on the long-term outcome of fatigue compared with no booster sessions.

METHODS/DESIGN

The first part of this study is an observer-blinded non-inferiority multicentre RCT, in which 166 severely fatigued MS patients will be randomly assigned (1:1 ratio, computer-generated sequence) to either face-to-face CBT or blended CBT (MS Fit) for fatigue. The primary endpoint is at 20 weeks after baseline. After this post-treatment assessment, patients will be randomly assigned again (1:1 ratio, computer generated sequence) to either MS Stay Fit consisting of two booster sessions at 2 and 4 months after end of treatment or no booster sessions. The primary endpoint of the second study is 52 weeks after baseline. Primary outcome measure in both studies is fatigue severity assessed with the fatigue severity subscale of the Checklist Individual Strength (CIS20r). Outcomes will be assessed at baseline (T0), at the end of treatment (T20), and after 39 and 52 weeks (T39 and T52).

DISCUSSION

If MS Fit is found to be non-inferior to face-to-face CBT, it will improve the accessibility of this treatment. In addition, the study aims to test whether it is possible to improve long-term effectiveness of CBT for MS-related fatigue with MS Stay Fit.

TRIAL REGISTRATION

Dutch Trial Register (NTR6966), registered 18 January 2018 https://www.trialregister.nl/trial/6782 WORLD HEALTH ORGANIZATION (WHO) TRIAL REGISTRATION DATA SET: All items from the WHO Trial Registration Data Set can be found within the protocol.

Pain, fatigue, depressive symptoms and sleep disturbance in young adults with cerebral palsy

PURPOSE

Investigate pain, fatigue, depressive symptoms and sleep disturbance in young adults with cerebral palsy compared to references.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Young adults with cerebral palsy (n = 97, aged 21-34 years) and age-matched references from the general population (n = 190) rated pain using a numeric rating scale and fatigue, depressive symptoms, sleep disturbance and global health using Patient-Reported Outcomes Measurement Information System® short forms. Scores were compared between cerebral palsy subgroups and the reference population. Correlation coefficients and linear regression analyses assessed interrelationships of health issues and associations with global health.

RESULTS

Individuals with Gross Motor Function Classification System level I had less pain, fatigue and depressive symptoms, while individuals with levels II and III-V had more pain (53% and 56%, p < 0.001) and those with levels III-V more fatigue (39%, p = 0.035) than references (pain: 26%, fatigue: 14%). Pain and fatigue were more interrelated (correlation coefficients: 0.71 vs. 0.41) and stronger associated with global mental health in individuals with cerebral palsy.

CONCLUSIONS

Young adults with Gross Motor Function Classification System levels II-V report more pain and those with levels III-V report more fatigue than references. Pain and fatigue are highly interrelated and specifically relate to mental health in individuals with cerebral palsy.Implications for rehabilitationExcept for those in the highest level of motor function, young adults with cerebral palsy report higher levels of pain and fatigue compared to the general population of the same age.Pain and fatigue are strongly interrelated and associated with mental health in young adults with cerebral palsy.The present study recommends to monitor pain and fatigue in young adults with cerebral palsy with low levels of gross motor function.We advise rehabilitation professionals to consider combined treatment for both pain and fatigue.

The Transmural Trauma Care Model (TTCM) for the rehabilitation of trauma patients is effective in improving patient related outcome measures: a non-randomized controlled trial

BACKGROUND

The Transmural Trauma Care Model (TTCM) is a refined post-clinical rehabilitation approach, in which a multidisciplinary hospital-based team guides a network of primary care physical therapists in the treatment of trauma patients. The objective of this study was to assess the effectiveness of the TTCM compared to regular care.

METHODS

A controlled-before-and-after study was performed in a level 1 trauma center. The TTCM includes four elements: 1) a multidisciplinary team at the outpatient clinic, 2) coordination and individual goal setting for each patient by this team, 3) a network of primary care physical therapists, 4) E-health support for transmural communication. Intervention group patients were prospectively followed (3, 6 and 9 months). The control group consisted of 4 clusters of patients who either had their first consultation at the outpatient clinic 0, 3, 6 or 9 months ago. Outcomes included generic- and disease-specific health-related quality of life (HR-QOL), pain, functional status, patient satisfaction, and perceived recovery. Between-group comparisons were made using linear regression analyses. The recovery pattern of intervention group patients was identified using longitudinal data analysis methods.

RESULTS

A total of 83 participants were included in the intervention group. In the control group, 202 participants were included (68 in the baseline cluster, 26 in the 3-month cluster, 51 in the 6-month cluster, 57 in the 9-month cluster). Between-group differences were statistically significant in favor of the intervention group for disease-specific HR-QOL at 9 months, pain at 6 and 9 months, functional status at 6 and 9 months, patient satisfaction at 3, 6 and 9 months, and perceived recovery at 6 months. No significant differences were found between groups for generic HR-QOL at any time point. Generic HR-QOL, disease-specific HR-QOL, pain, and functional status significantly improved in a linear fashion among intervention group patients during the nine-month follow-up period.

CONCLUSIONS

This study provides preliminary evidence that the TTCM is effective in improving patient related outcome measures, such as disease-specific HR-QOL, pain and functional status. A multicenter, and ideally randomized controlled trial, is required to confirm these results.

TRIAL REGISTRATION

The trial is registered at the Dutch Trial Register (NTR5474). Registered 12 October 2015. Retrospectively registered.

Setting meaningful goals in rehabilitation: rationale and practical tool

CONTEXT

Goal-setting is a key characteristic of modern rehabilitation. However, goals need to be meaningful and of importance to the client.

AXIOMS

Both theories and empirical evidence support the importance of a hierarchy of goals: one or more overall goals that clients find personally meaningful and specific goals that are related to the overall goals. We posit that the client's fundamental beliefs, goals and attitudes ("global meaning") need to be explored before setting any rehabilitation goal. A chaplain or other person with similar skills can be involved in doing so in an open-ended way. The client's fundamental beliefs, goals and attitudes serve as a point of departure for setting rehabilitation goals.

SETTING GOALS

We set out a three-stage process to set goals: (1) exploring the client's global meaning (i.e. fundamental beliefs, goals and attitudes), (2) deriving a meaningful overall rehabilitation goal from the client's global meaning and (3) setting specific rehabilitation goals that serve to achieve the meaningful overall rehabilitation goal.

CONCLUSION

This is an extension of current practice in many rehabilitation teams, which may help counter the drive toward exclusively functional goals based around independence.

Energy Conservation Management for People With Multiple Sclerosis-Related Fatigue: Who Benefits?

OBJECTIVE

We investigated whether demographic, disease-related, or personal baseline determinants can predict a positive response to energy conservation management (ECM).

METHOD

We conducted a secondary analysis of a single-blind, two-parallel-arms randomized controlled trial that included ambulatory adults with severe MS-related fatigue. Therapy responders and nonresponders were categorized by Checklist Individual Strength fatigue change scores between baseline and end of treatment. Logistic regression analyses were used to assess the determinants of response.

RESULTS

Sixty-nine participants were included (ECM group, n = 34; control group, n = 35). In the ECM group, fatigue severity, perception of fatigue, illness cognitions about MS, and social support discrepancies were related to the probability of being a responder.

CONCLUSION

The results suggest that people with MS-related fatigue who had a less negative perception of fatigue and who perceived fewer disease benefits and a higher discrepancy in social support had the best response to ECM treatment.

Preliminary effectiveness of a sequential exercise intervention on gait function in ambulant patients with multiple sclerosis - A pilot study

BACKGROUND

Patients with multiple sclerosis (pwMS) often experience a decline in motor function and performance during prolonged walking, which potentially is associated with reduced ankle push-off power and might be alleviated through structured exercise. The objectives of this pilot study were to assess ankle push-off power and walking performance in pwMS and healthy controls, and the preliminary effectiveness of a sequential exercise program (resistance training followed by walking-specific endurance training) on ankle push-off power and walking performance.

METHODS

PwMS (N = 10) with self-reported reduced walking performance and healthy controls (N = 10; at baseline only) underwent 3D gait analysis during a self-paced 12-minute walking test to assess walking performance prior to and following a sequential exercise program. Secondary testing paradigms comprised isometric muscle testing (triceps surae), cardiopulmonary exercise testing and self-report measures.

FINDINGS

PwMS had a shorter 12-minute walking distance, and lower peak ankle push-off power (most-affected leg) in comparison to healthy controls. There was no minute-to-minute decline in walking performance. The 8-week resistance training significantly improved walking distance. In parallel, higher peak and speed-normalized ankle push-off power were found in the less-affected side. No additional changes were found following the walking-specific endurance training phase.

INTERPRETATION

There was no walking-related motor fatigue found during a self-paced 12-minute walking test despite reduced ankle push-off power, and self-reported walking problems. Preliminary effects suggest a positive effect of resistance training on walking performance, potentially associated with increases in ankle push-off power, interestingly, in the less-affected leg. The added effect of the walking-specific endurance training remains unclear.

Long-term course of difficulty in participation of individuals with cerebral palsy aged 16 to 34 years: a prospective cohort study

AIM

To determine the long-term course of difficulty in participation of individuals with cerebral palsy (CP) without intellectual disability between 16 years and 34 years of age.

METHOD

One hundred and fifty-one individuals with CP aged 16 to 20 years were included (63% male, 37% female; Gross Motor Function Classification System [GMFCS] levels I-IV; without intellectual disability). The Assessment of Life Habits questionnaire 3.0 general short form was used up to three times biennially and at 13-year follow-up (13-year follow-up: n=98). Scores (range 0-10) reflect difficulty and assistance in participation in housing, education and employment, interpersonal relationships, recreation, community life, and responsibilities. Multilevel models were used to determine the course of difficulty in participation by GMFCS level.

RESULTS

Despite high average participation levels, 41% to 95% of adolescents and young adults with CP experienced difficulty. Difficulty in participation in housing and interpersonal relationships increased from age 16 years onwards and in most other life areas in the mid- and late 20s. In adolescents in GMFCS levels III and IV, participation in recreation and community life improved up to age 23 years.

INTERPRETATION

Individuals with CP experience increasing difficulties in participation in their mid- and late 20s. Clinicians should systematically check for participation difficulties in young adults with CP and offer timely personalized treatment.

WHAT THIS PAPER ADDS

Many individuals with cerebral palsy (CP) aged 16 to 34 years experience difficulty in participation. Difficulty in participation increases in the mid- and late 20s for individuals with CP. Participation in recreation/community life improves before age 23 years for those in Gross Motor Function Classification System levels III and IV.

Activity Performance Curves of Individuals With Cerebral Palsy

: media-1vid110.1542/5804911840001PEDS-VA_2017-3723Video Abstract OBJECTIVES: Describe development curves of motor and daily activity performance in individuals with cerebral palsy (CP).

METHODS

Participants with CP aged 1 to 20 years at baseline (n = 421) and Gross Motor Functioning Classification System (GMFCS) levels I to V (27% of participants with intellectual disability [ID]) were longitudinally assessed up to a 13-year follow-up period. Motor and daily activity performance were assessed using the relevant subdomains of the Vineland Adaptive Behavior Scales survey. Nonlinear mixed effects analyses were used, estimating the limit (average maximal performance level) and the age by which individuals reached 90% of the limit (age₉₀).

RESULTS

Limits of motor performance decreased with each lower functional level. Age₉₀ for motor performance was reached at ∼6 to 8 years of age in children with GMFCS levels I to III, and at younger ages in those with lower functional levels. Limits of daily activity performance did not differ between individuals without ID with GMFCS levels I to III. The age₉₀s of daily activities were reached between 11 and 14 (personal), 26 and 32 (domestic), and 22 and 26 years of age (community). Individuals with ID reached lower daily activity performance limits earlier.

CONCLUSIONS

Individuals with CP continue to develop motor performance after gross motor capacity limits are reached. For those without ID, daily activities continue to develop into their 20s. Individuals who are severely affected functionally have the least favorable development of motor performance, and those with ID have the least favorable development of daily activity performance.

Physical behaviour is weakly associated with physical fatigue in persons with multiple sclerosis-related fatigue

BACKGROUND

Fatigue affects 80% of persons with multiple sclerosis and is associated with daily physical functioning. Both fatigue and physical behaviour are multidimensional concepts.

OBJECTIVE

To study the association between the dimensions of physical behaviour and multiple sclerosis-related fatigue.

METHODS

Cross-sectional analysis of 212 persons with multiple sclerosis. Participants were severely fatigued, with a Fatigue Severity Scale median (interquartile range): 5.4 (4.8-5.9) and were minimally to moderately neurologically impaired, based on the Expanded Disability Status Scale: 2.5 (2.0-3.5), 73% had relapsing-remitting multiple sclerosis. Fatigue was measured by questionnaires (i.e. Checklist Individual Strength, Modified Fatigue Impact Scale), and the dimensions subjective, physical, cognitive and psychological fatigue were distinguished. Physical behaviour was measured using an Actigraph GT3X+, and outcomes were categorized into the dimensions of activity amount, activity intensity, day pattern, and distribution of activities.

RESULTS

The physical behaviour dimensions were significantly associated with only the physical fatigue dimension (omnibus F-test: 3.96; df1 = 4, df2 = 207; p = 0.004). Additional analysis showed that the amount of activity (unstandardized beta coefficient (β) = -0.16; 95% confidence interval (CI) -0.27 to -0.04; p = 0.007), activity intensity (β = -0.18; 95% CI -0.31 to -0.06; p = 0.004) and day pattern of activity (β = -0.17; 95% CI, -0.28 to -0.06; p = 0.002) were the physical behaviour dimensions that were significantly associated with physical fatigue.

CONCLUSION

Physical behaviour is weakly associated with physical fatigue and is not associated with other dimensions of fatigue.