CHRONIC FATIGUE SYNDROME (CFS)

Do you constantly feel exhausted? Do you have trouble concentrating and thinking? Do you complain daily of aches, pains, and general tiredness? You may be suffering from Chronic Fatigue Syndrome. 

Chronic Fatigue Syndrome (CFS) is a debilitating condition characterized by persistent fatigue lasting six months or longer that affects approximately 1% of the population. Women are at a greater risk of developing the disease than men. It has been described as having long lasting flu-like symptoms such as extreme fatigue and body aches. The condition may worsen with even the smallest amounts of activity, but it also doesn’t necessarily improve with rest.

Physical therapy for Chronic Fatigue Syndrome can provide many benefits including increased energy, improved sleep, and improved physical function. The physical therapists at 360 Physical Therapy & Wellness will provide a safe and effective program to help improve your quality of life. 

Read on to learn about the symptoms of CFS and how physical therapy for Chronic Fatigue Syndrome can be part of your comprehensive treatment plan. Call our office in Fulton, MD to discuss a treatment plan that will work for you!

CAUSES AND SYMPTOMS OF CHRONIC FATIGUE SYNDROME

CFS and fibromyalgia have many overlapping symptoms and many individuals with CFS may also be diagnosed with fibromyalgia. CFS is a disease that causes central nervous and immune system disturbances, cell transport dysfunction, cardiovascular problems, gastrointestinal dysfunction, memory loss, orthostatic intolerance (POTS), and inflammation (J Transl Med).

The cause of Chronic Fatigue Syndrome is unknown and although it cannot be cured, the disease can be managed with a comprehensive treatment plan including physical therapy, behavioral therapy, improved diet and lifestyle modifications, and medication. 

Common symptoms of Chronic Fatigue Syndrome include:

• Unexplained, persistent fatigue that often worsens with physical or mental activity

• Reduced activity

• Unexplained body and muscle aches

• Joint pain > six months

• Headaches > six months

• Trouble concentrating; feeling like you have a “brain fog”

• Forgetfulness or confusion

• Anxiety, irritability, or depression

• Tender lymph nodes and/or sore throat > six months

• Disturbed sleep patterns

• Sensitivity to light, odors, or noise

• Dizziness or fainting (Orthostatic Intolerance) 

Combined with a comprehensive treatment plan, physical therapy for Chronic Fatigue Syndrome is extremely beneficial to help ease your discomfort and improve your ability to get back to your normal daily activities. Call the physical therapists at 360 Physical Therapy & Wellness and let us work with you to help manage your chronic fatigue. 

PHYSICAL THERAPY FOR CHRONIC FATIGUE SYNDROME

Physical therapy for Chronic Fatigue Syndrome has shown positive outcomes in reducing fatigue and improving sleep, physical function, and quality of life.

Physical therapy for Chronic Fatigue Syndrome includes:

• Manual therapy. Hands-on therapy, including gentle massage therapy helps to alleviate pain, improve sleep patterns, and reduce anxiety.

• Joint mobilization/manipulation. Specialized, hands-on manual therapy techniques that mobilize muscles and joints aimed at decreasing pain, reducing compensations, and improving movement. 

• Therapeutic exercise. Your physical therapist will prescribe exercises individually designed to improve your short-term endurance and strength, helping to decrease levels of discomfort. We focus on training specific movement patterns to improve your ability at performing everyday tasks. Many studies have identified that individuals with CFS may generally benefit and feel less fatigued following exercise therapy, and no evidence suggests that exercise therapy may worsen outcomes.

Are you tired of being tired? If you think you may suffer from Chronic Fatigue Syndrome, and live near Fulton, MD, give us a call today! Our comprehensive treatment plan will help reduce your feelings of fatigue and improve your daily functions. Let us help you bring joy back into your life, pain-free!