Chronic fatigue syndrome (CFS) is a long-lasting, debilitating fatigue that is not relieved by rest. The fatigue can be increased by physical or mental activities and can interfere with daily activities from basic daily tasks to job functions. Since there is no cure for CFS, treatment focuses on reducing the symptoms of CFS, reducing anxiety, and decreasing the impact on daily life. Treatment approaches may include medical care, mental health support, and lifestyle changes.

Researchers from London examined the benefits of cognitive and physical therapies for patients with CFS. The study, published in Lancet, found that exercise therapy and cognitive behavioral therapy can help reduce fatigue when added to standard medical treatment.

The randomized trial included 641 adults with CFS. All of the participants received specialist medical care including information leaflets, advice, and medication to help manage symptoms. They were then randomized to one of four treatment groups:

• Graded exercise therapy (gradual increase in duration and intensity of aerobic exercise)
• Cognitive behavioral therapy (a form of therapy that focuses on how you feel and respond to thoughts)
• Adaptive pacing therapy (strategies to help adapt to illness with planning, pacing, prioritizing activity)
• No add on therapy

Participants that had graded exercise therapy or cognitive behavior therapy had greater improvement in fatigue and physical function compared to adaptive pacing therapy or specialist medical care alone. Adaptive pacing therapy alone did not show greater improvements compared to specialist medical care alone.