Study designs of evaluations included in the review
Randomised controlled trials (RCTs) published in peer-reviewed literature were included.
Specific interventions included in the review
Interventions included were CATs for MS including: nutritional therapy such as linoleic acid and alpha-linoleic acid derivatives, massage, Feldenkreis bodywork, reflexology, magnetic field therapy, neural therapy and psychological counselling.
Control groups received oleic acid as a spread (7.6 or 16 g) or capsules (4 g), olive oil, an emulsion containing 21 g of oleic acid, no treatment, sham bodywork or stimulation, calf massage treatments, a magnetically inactive device, or saline injections. Hyperbaric oxygen therapy was not included in this review as it cannot really be regarded as a CAT; in addition, it has been reviewed elsewhere (see Other Publications of Related Interest no.1).
Participants included in the review
Patients with MS were included.
Outcomes assessed in the review
Amelioration of MS symptoms, as measured by various methods including: number and severity of relapses, clinical deterioration, Kurtzke Disability Status score (KDSS) and Millar score, State-Trait Anxiety Inventory (STAI), Profile of Mood States (POMS), Imagery Assessment Tool (IAT), Health Attribution Test (HAT Scale), Performance Scale (PS), Perceived Stress Scale (PSS), Visual Analogue Scale (VAS), Urinary Control Scale (AUA), Quality of Life (QOL), quantitative electroencephalogy (QEEG), and Norwick-Strickland (NS) scales.
How were decisions on the relevance of primary studies made?
One author performed the selection of studies.