Research: TESAR and colleagues,

Listed in Issue 94

Abstract

TESAR and colleagues, Department of Neurology, General Hospital, Propst Fuehrer-Strasse 4, St Poelten, Austria, have investigated the effects of psychological group therapy in patients with multiple sclerosis.

Background

Background: The aim of this study was to evaluate a psychological therapy programme for the treatment of MS that includes cognitive/behavioural strategies, relaxation training and physical exercise.

Methodology

Methods: In this pilot study, 29 MS patients were recruited from an outpatient unit, of which 14 were assigned to participate in the therapy programme, and the rest served as control. The therapy programme was for 7 weeks with 1 session per week. Depression, anxiety, coping and body image were assessed with self-report questionnaires at baseline, at the end of the programme, and at 2 months follow-up.

Results

Results: Compared with the control group, the treatment group showed long-term improvements in depressed coping style, and a short-term improvement in vitality and body dynamics.

Conclusion

Conclusions: Further studies need to investigate the differential contributions of the components of the therapy programme, and how the short-term effects can become more sustained.

References

Tesar N, Baumhackl U, Kopp M, Guenther V. Effects of a psychological group therapy in patients with multiple sclerosis. Acta Neurologica Scandinavica 107 (6): 394-399, Jun 2003.

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