University of Missouri-Columbia School of Health Professions Link to MU Homepage link to MU Homepage School of Health Professions
search  
Virtual Health Care Team
Case StudiesAbout VHCTContinuing EducationHealth ReferencesContact UsHome

Systemic Lupus Erythematosus

Self-Management Skills

Benefits and Evidence for Self-Management in Chronic Illness

What are the benefits and evidence to support the use of self-management skills?

  • The person feels more in control of his/her situation ( Braden, 1991; Ferrell, 1998; Lorig et al., 2000).
  • The person feels valued as an active participant in his/her health care.
  • Particular types of self-management skills have been examined for the benefits received:

Physical activity has been found to promote general health, decrease pain and stiffness, and decreased feelings of depression as well as improved mood and sleep. Exercise improves daily energy level ( Gecht, et al., 1996; Minor & Lane, 1996; Wallace, 2000).

Aquatics in a warm water pool have been found to promote flexibility and movement ( Ferrell, 1998; Minor & Lane, 1996).

Participating in a self-help or self-management course demonstrated decreased reports of pain, increased functional abilities and a reduced number of hospitalizations and physician visits ( Braden, 1991; Lorig, et al., 2000).


Published by the Virtual Health Care Team ®
School of Health Professions
University of Missouri-Columbia
Questions? Comments? Contact Us
Copyright © 2006 — Curators of the University of Missouri
DMCA and other copyright information.
An equal opportunity/ADA institution.
All rights reserved. Disclaimer and Terms of Use
Last Update: Aug 29 2006