Amantadine for fatigue in multiple sclerosis
Abstract Background Fatigue is one of the most common and disabling symptoms of people with Multiple Sclerosis (MS). The effective management of fatigue has an important impact on the patient’s functioning, abilities, and quality of life. Although a number of strategies have been devised for reducing fatigue, treatment recommendations are based on a limited amount […]
Amphetamines for improving recovery after stroke
Abstract Background Animal research shows that treatment with amphetamines improves recovery after focal cerebral ischaemia. If the effects are similar in humans, amphetamine treatment could have a major impact on recovery from stroke. Objectives To assess the effects of amphetamine treatment in patients with stroke. Search methods We searched the Cochrane Stroke Group Trials Register […]
Non-pharmacological interventions for wandering of people with dementia in the domestic setting
Abstract Background A number of studies exist of interventions for wandering in the institutional setting, but much less work has been done on wandering in the domestic setting. The prevalence of wandering by people with dementia is difficult to assess; wandering is not a simple or static behaviour and the reasons why people wander remain […]
Nutritional support for head-injured patients
Abstract Background Head injury increases the body’s metabolic responses, and therefore nutritional demands. Provision of an adequate supply of nutrients is associated with improved outcome. The best route for administering nutrition (parenterally (TPN) or enterally (EN)), and the best timing of administration (for example, early versus late) of nutrients needs to be established. Objectives To […]
Pharmacological management for agitation and aggression in people with acquired brain injuries
Abstract Background Of the many psychiatric symptoms that may result from brain injury, agitation and/or aggression are often the most troublesome. It is therefore important to evaluate the efficacy of psychotropic medication used in its management. Objectives To evaluate the effects of drugs for agitation and/or aggression following acquired brain injury (ABI). Search methods We […]
Massage and touch for dementia
Abstract Background Massage and touch have been suggested as a non-pharmacological alternative or supplement to other treatments offered in order to reduce or manage a range of conditions associated with dementia such as anxiety, agitated behaviour and depression. It has also been suggested that massage and touch may counteract cognitive decline. Objectives To assess the […]
Electrostimulation for promoting recovery of movement or functional ability after stroke
Abstract Background Electrostimulation might improve motor recovery after stroke by providing neuromuscular re-training. Objectives To find if electrostimulation improved functional motor ability, and the ability to undertake activities of daily living. Search methods We searched the Cochrane Stroke Group Trials Register (last searched August 2005), the Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials (CENTRAL) (The Cochrane […]
Psychological interventions for multiple sclerosis
Abstract Background The unpredictable, variable nature of Multiple Sclerosis (MS), and the possibility of increasing disability, means that a diagnosis can have substantial psychological consequences. Objectives To assess the effectiveness of psychological interventions for people with MS. Search methods We searched the Cochrane MS Group Specialised Register (December 2004), Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials […]
Interventions for apraxia of speech following stroke
Abstract Background Apraxia of speech is a communication disorder that can affect stroke patients. Several different intervention strategies are undertaken by speech and language therapists working with this patient group. Objectives To assess whether therapeutic interventions improve functional speech in stroke patients with apraxia of speech and which individual therapeutic interventions are effective. Search methods […]
Exercise therapy for treatment of non-specific low back pain
Abstract Background Exercise therapy is widely used as an intervention in low-back pain. Objectives To evaluate the effectiveness of exercise therapy in adult non-specific acute, subacute and chronic low-back pain versus no treatment and other conservative treatments. Search methods The Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials (Issue 3, 2004), MEDLINE, EMBASE, PsychInfo, CINAHL databases to […]