Factors influencing the outcomes of non-pharmacological interventions for managing fatigue across the lifespan of people living with musculoskeletal (MSK) conditions: a scoping review protocol

Abstract

IntroductionFatigue is an important and distressing symptom for many people living with chronic musculoskeletal (MSK) conditions. Many non-pharmacological interventions have been investigated in recent years and some have been demonstrated to be effective in reducing fatigue and fatigue impact, however there is limited guidance for clinicians to follow regarding the most appropriate management options. The objective of this scoping review is to understand and map the extent of evidence in relation to the impact of non-pharmacological interventions on MSK condition-related fatigue across the lifespan.Methods and analysisThis scoping review will include evidence relating to people of all ages living with chronic MSK conditions who have been offered a non-pharmacological intervention with either the intention or effect of reducing fatigue and its impact. Databases including AMED, PsycINFO, CINAHLPlus, MEDLINE, EMBASE and Scopus will be searched for peer reviewed primary research studies published after 1stJanuary 2007 in English language. These findings will be used to identify factors associated with successful interventions and to map gaps in knowledge.Ethics and disseminationEthical approval was not required for this review. Findings will be disseminated by journal publication, conference presentation and by communicating with relevant healthcare and charity organisations.Article SummaryStrengths and limitations of this study-Patient and Public Involvement and Engagement (PPIE) workshops at key time points will ensure that the protocol, review findings and subsequent discussion are relevant to stakeholders and reflect lived experience of MSK-fatigue-All studies will be reviewed, and data extraction checked by a minimum of two researchers-The effectiveness of specific interventions and methodological quality of included studies is not covered in this scoping review-Only evidence available in English will be reviewed