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Randomized Controlled Trial
. 2017 Nov 21;17(1):201.
doi: 10.1186/s12883-017-0979-y.

Cognitive rehabilitation and mindfulness in multiple sclerosis (REMIND-MS): a study protocol for a randomised controlled trial

Ilse M Nauta  1 , Anne E M Speckens  2 , Roy P C Kessels  3   4 , Jeroen J G Geurts  5 , Vincent de Groot  6 , Bernard M J Uitdehaag  7 , Luciano Fasotti  3   8 , Brigit A de Jong  7
Affiliations
Randomized Controlled Trial

Cognitive rehabilitation and mindfulness in multiple sclerosis (REMIND-MS): a study protocol for a randomised controlled trial

Ilse M Nauta et al. BMC Neurol. .

Abstract

Background: Cognitive problems frequently occur in patients with multiple sclerosis (MS) and profoundly affect their quality of life. So far, the best cognitive treatment options for MS patients are a matter of debate. Therefore, this study aims to investigate the effectiveness of two promising non-pharmacological treatments: cognitive rehabilitation therapy (CRT) and mindfulness-based cognitive therapy (MBCT). Furthermore, this study aims to gain additional knowledge about the aetiology of cognitive problems among MS patients, since this may help to develop and guide effective cognitive treatments.

Methods/design: In a dual-centre, single-blind randomised controlled trial (RCT), 120 MS patients will be randomised into one of three parallel groups: CRT, MBCT or enhanced treatment as usual (ETAU). Both CRT and MBCT consist of a structured 9-week program. ETAU consists of one appointment with an MS specialist nurse. Measurements will be performed at baseline, post-intervention and 6 months after the interventions. The primary outcome measure is the level of subjective cognitive complaints. Secondary outcome measures are objective cognitive function, functional brain network measures (using magnetoencephalography), psychological symptoms, well-being, quality of life and daily life functioning.

Discussion: To our knowledge, this will be the first RCT that investigates the effect of MBCT on cognitive function among MS patients. In addition, studying the effect of CRT on cognitive function may provide direction to the contradictory evidence that is currently available. This study will also provide information on changes in functional brain networks in relation to cognitive function. To conclude, this study may help to understand and treat cognitive problems among MS patients.

Trial registration: This trial was prospectively registered at the Dutch Trial Registration (number NTR6459 , registered on 31 May 2017).

Keywords: Brain networks; Cognition; Cognitive rehabilitation therapy; Mindfulness-based cognitive therapy; Multiple sclerosis; Randomised controlled trial.

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Conflict of interest statement

Ethics approval and consent to participate

This study has been reviewed and approved by the MEC of the VU University Medical Center (METC 2017.009, protocol version 5, 19 May 2017) and the Scientific Research Committee of Amsterdam Neuroscience (CWO nr.16–14). All substantial protocol amendments undergo review and approval by the MEC of the VU University Medical Center. All participants will provide written informed consent prior to study participation. The study is registered in Dutch Trial registry (NTR6459).

Consent for publication

Not applicable.

Competing interests

The authors declare to have no competing interests.

Publisher’s Note

Springer Nature remains neutral with regard to jurisdictional claims in published maps and institutional affiliations.

Figures

Fig. 1
Fig. 1
Flowchart of the trial design. KR = Klimmendaal Rehabilitation Center; VUmc = VU University Medical Center
See this image and copyright information in PMC

References

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