Occupational therapy interventions for multiple sclerosis: A scoping review

Abstract

We reviewed the evidence regarding the effectiveness of occupational therapy interventions in improving outcomes for adults with multiple sclerosis.

Method We completed a scoping review of literature in the area of occupational therapy and multiple sclerosis following a methodological framework for conducting scoping reviews. Search included all articles published up until June 2019. Studies were included if they were original research that included adults with multiple sclerosis published in English and assessed interventions delivered by occupational therapists.

Result The database search yielded 1646 results. Following screening and review of articles thirty papers (twenty-five studies) met the inclusion criteria and were included in the review. The studies were charted and discussed in the areas of (1) fatigue management or energy conservation (2) upper-limb rehabilitation (3) occupation-focussed cognitive rehabilitation and (4) other types of interventions.

Conclusion The quality of evidence that exists for occupational therapy with people with multiple sclerosis is mixed but there are studies that show that occupational therapy can improve occupational and other outcomes in this population. It is essential to build on the evidence that exists in the area.