Effects of a Rehabilitation Programme Focused on Energy Management in People With Myalgic Encephalomyelitis / Chronic Fatigue Syndrome

Effects of a Rehabilitation Programme Focused on Energy Management in People With Myalgic Encephalomyelitis / Chronic Fatigue Syndrome

The study focuses on rehabilitation nursing care for adults diagnosed with Myalgic Encephalomyelitis/Chronic Fatigue Syndrome in a home setting. The objective is to evaluate the effects of an individualised rehabilitation programme, which aims to empower participants to manage their energy effectively, observing the impacts on functionality and fatigue.

During the study, we collected sociodemographic data, information about the clinical evolution, patient perception of the disease. Instruments were applied to assess quality of life, functionality, and fatigue levels. This will allow to understand how to improve rehabilitation nursing care.

Inclusion Criteria:

• Portuguese-speaking individuals with age of 18 years or older;
• Individuals with official residence in Portugal;
• An official diagnosis of ME/CFS based on the NICE guidelines;
• A Chalder's Fatigue Questionnaire (CFQ) score higher than 18 points.

Exclusion Criteria:

• Individuals without official residence in Portugal;
• Patients without a diagnosis of ME/CFS;
• Patients with a diagnosis of ME/CFS whose case definitions used was not known;
• Patients without a diagnosis of ME/CFS who had previously participated in any kind of rehabilitation programme, including pacing therapy, cognitive behavioural therapy or graded-exercise therapy.