Expert Support
Conserving Energy
Josée Poirier, R.N., B.Sc., MSCN
Josée Poirier has been the Nursing Coordinator for the MS Clinic at the CHUM’s Notre-Dame Hospital since 1994.
Fatigue is one of the most disconcerting symptoms of multiple sclerosis. A number of studies have revealed that fatigue occurs between 50% and 85% of the time. It is one of the reasons why individuals who suffer from this disease quit their jobs. There are very few medications available to reduce fatigue, and those that are available only increase energy by 30% and 50%. In light of this, it is a good idea to manage your energy better by following an energy conservation program. In this article, I will explain part of this program, which was designed by Jackie Barwin, an Occupational Therapist at a rehabilitation centre in Ottawa. First of all, what does energy conservation mean? Energy conservation involves using effective methods to carry out activities of daily living (ADL) and domestic activities (DA) while reducing the level of fatigue. When proper energy conservation techniques are used, an individual can have enough energy to manage all aspects of everyday life. These techniques can be applied at work, at home, and during recreational activities. There are 6 principles for energy conservation: regulation, planning, establishing priorities, posture, practice, and good physical condition.
Regulation involves “performing a task according to a work schedule in order to maintain a constant level from day to day and week to week” (Jackie Barwin, Occupational Therapist). To begin with, you must do the following:
- Set a time limit for each activity.
- Divide tasks that take longer and are more demanding into smaller tasks.
- Alternate periods of work and rest.
- Be sure to respect your tolerance for fatigue while you work.
- Use an agenda to organize your day based on priority tasks vs. those that can be completed over several days or weeks.
- Avoid performing two or more demanding tasks consecutively, etc.
Planning consists of organizing your schedule while taking into consideration what you need to accomplish, how you can accomplish it, and the level of energy it will require.
Plan your schedule based on your energy level and your strengths. People with multiple sclerosis normally have more energy in the morning. Schedule your most demanding tasks in the morning. Set aside time for unexpected activities. Before you begin an activity, such as preparing a meal, assemble all of the necessary ingredients and utensils. This will allow you to avoid unnecessary walking, and will help to conserve your energy.
Establishing priorities allows you to accomplish important tasks before your energy stores are depleted. In addition, it will help you to realize some tasks can be delegated to others or put off until later.
Posture is often neglected, but good posture allows you to conserve energy and reduce fatigue while also reducing the amount of energy associated with an activity.
Whenever possible, sit down while performing your tasks. This will decrease the amount of energy you expend by 25%. This advice is even more important for people who experience balance problems.
Organize your workspace properly so the tools you are using are within reach in order to avoid having to bend or stretch to reach them.
Be sure to use proper posture when working for an extended period of time, etc.
If you are required to lift or carry heavy objects, distribute the weight by using both arms and hold the objects you are carrying close to your body.
When bending over to pick something up, bend your knees and not your back. You will be better balanced if you spread your legs, because you will be supported by a wider surface.
Practice will allow you to integrate the principles of energy conservation. It takes time to change old habits. Set a long-term objective. If you set your sights on changing your habits, you will be able to integrate new techniques.
Good physical condition is related to your tolerance level for an activity. The better shape you are in, the more energy you will have. If necessary, consult a physical fitness expert in order to develop a program for you that takes your needs and restrictions into consideration.
Remember, no matter what task you are performing, it is important to organize your workspace, assemble your materials, prioritize important tasks, and respect your pace and tolerance level. Better task management and organization will significantly reduce your level of fatigue, and you will have more energy to participate in family activities.
This feature is intended solely for informational purposes and is not a substitute for routine or urgent medical evaluation, treatment or consultation. Josée Poirier’s guest editorial should not be construed as a medical opinion aimed at establishing a diagnosis or course of treatment. Individuals who are being treated should not construe information here as replacing or superseding recommendations of their own physician.
