Effectiveness of Fatigue and Activity Management in Work (FAME-W) for Individuals With Inflammatory Arthritis

Many individuals with Inflammatory Arthritis (IA) experience symptoms of pain and fatigue which interfere with work. Over 50% of people with IA report workplace difficulties resulting in sick leave, absenteeism and reduced productivity. Loss of ability to continue paid employment results in physical, emotional and financial hardship for individuals with IA and has societal and economic implications. Previous research has identified pain and fatigue as dominant symptoms that interfere with work capacity and therefore interventions are required to reduce the impact of these symptoms on work activities. The purpose of this study therefore is to test the effectiveness of a 4-week Fatigue and Activity Management Education for Work intervention. The study will use a mixed methods design. A randomized control trial will test the effectiveness of the intervention and a qualitative process evaluation with explore acceptability and participants' experiences of the intervention. Individuals with IA, of working age, will be recruited in Rheumatology outpatient departments of three hospitals. Study participants will be randomly assigned to a four-week online self-management intervention or a self-guided symptom management workbook. Study measures consist of self-report questionnaires related to work and symptom management. All participants will also be invited to an interview to discuss their experience of participating in the study.