A supervised, progressive exercise program is the foundation of physical therapy treatment for patients with chronic fatigue syndrome.
The first time you meet with your physical therapist, the therapist will determine the extent of the disease. This will help the physical therapist understand what your requirements are and chart out a plan for treatment. The therapist will assess the patient's underlying ability and initiate an intervention program.
Starting with a series of simple stretches and exercise programs, you can expect in an improvement in motion and strength. This allows the body to become stronger and cope with the pain at the same time.
For example, a patient may be asked to walk for a few minutes a day. As time progresses, the patient is able to walk faster, and over longer distances. Supervised, progressive exercise is the key. Chronic fatigue syndrome is characterized by days when the patient feels really active and energetic, and other days when they feel tired and listless. Physical therapy helps improve the physical and the mental state of the patient over a period of time.