Cognitive Therapy and Exercise Could Help Those with Chronic Fatigue Syndrome

Chronic Fatigue Syndrome is defined as a condition that causes a person to become fatigued for no reason; a tiredness that is not relieved by rest, and which persists for 6 months or more. This incurable condition is typically accompanied by other symptoms such as memory problems, muscle pain and disturbed sleep patterns; and is often triggered by certain viral infections.

chronic fatigue patientsA large scale study performed in respect of sufferers has found that the best possible therapy for combating the Chronic Fatigue Syndrome could be exercise and behavioral therapy.

Resting and taking it easy are not the best antidote as previously thought. Behavior therapy uses psychology to reduce a person’s fear of activity and simple exercises such as walking were prescribed to help increase energy levels.

Earlier Adaptive Pacing was thought to be an effective way to manage the condition – this involves lifestyle adjustments that required the person to engage in less activity – however the study has found this to be ineffectual in combating chronic fatigue syndrome.

What was seen to make a significant difference to increase energy levels was exercise and behavior therapy.  This also holds out hope that this debilitating condition could also be reversed rather than something that a person has to learn to live with.