skip to main content

MS Fatigue – Non-Pharmacological Management — SCE Neurology MCQ

Instant feedback + full explanation. One question, done properly.

EasyMultiple Sclerosis & CNS InflammationMS Fatigue – Non-Pharmacological ManagementSCE Neurology

A 55-year-old man with MS has chronic fatigue and asks his MS specialist nurse about non-pharmacological management. What evidence-based non-pharmacological approaches are recommended for MS fatigue?

Educational content. Not a substitute for clinical judgement or local policy.

Reveal the answer and explanation

Correct answer: C — Exercise programmes (particularly aerobic and combined exercise), CBT specifically adapted for MS fatigue, energy conservation techniques, sleep hygiene optimisation, and mindfulness-based approaches — these have stronger evidence than any pharmacological treatment

Non-pharmacological approaches have stronger evidence for MS fatigue than any medication. NICE NG100 recommends: (1) structured exercise programmes (aerobic, resistance, or combined — shown to reduce fatigue in multiple RCTs), (2) CBT adapted for MS fatigue (addresses unhelpful beliefs and behaviours maintaining fatigue), (3) energy conservation/management techniques (prioritising activities, pacing, planning, positioning), (4) sleep hygiene optimisation, (5) mindfulness-based stress reduction. These can be delivered by physiotherapists, occupational therapists, and psychologists. A: Multiple approaches are evidence-based. C: Bed rest worsens deconditioning and fatigue. D: Supplements have insufficient evidence. E: Acupuncture has limited evidence.

Reference: NICE NG100 MS; Cochrane MS Exercise Reviews