A study led by researchers at the Institute of Genetics and Cancer found that fatigue management programmes (FMP) led to significantly improved fatigue levels, mental health and sleep quality for people with rheumatic diseases. The study examined an FMP developed in NHS Lothian to support patients with inflammatory arthritis.Originally designed as a seven-week in-person course, it was adapted during the COVID-19 pandemic to a four-week online format.Patients attended sessions covering topics such as sleep, stress and activity management, using a cognitive behavioural approach.The results showed that both the four-week and seven-week programmes significantly improved fatigue levels, mental health and sleep quality.Importantly, the shorter four-week programme was just as effective as the longer version, allowing more patients to access care with fewer time commitments.Researchers also found that online delivery was just as beneficial as in-person sessions. These findings suggest that shorter, virtual fatigue management programmes could be a practical and effective way to help people with rheumatic diseases. Expanding access to these services could improve quality of life for many patients while making better use of NHS resources. Kathryn Berg Trial and Data Manager, Institute of Genetics and Cancer Related links Read the paper in Rheumatology Advances in Practice Kathryn Berg Tags 2026 Publication date 26 Feb, 2026
