Physical Therapy Today: Can physical therapy help chronic fatigue syndrome?

Chronic fatigue syndrome (CFS) is a clinical condition characterized by excessive fatigue and body pain. It is often preceded by a viral illness and is associated with symptoms like muscle aches and pains, joint pains, difficulty sleeping and at times, depression. CFS symptoms last 6 months or longer and typically have a distinct period of onset, often during periods of additional stress.

The symptoms are unpredictable and can vary from mild discomfort to excruciating pain. Depending on its severity, this condition has the potential to alter the lives of the patient and family members, and req...