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    Myalgic Encephalomyelitis / Chronic Fatigue Syndrome (ME/CFS)

    Also known as: chronic fatigue syndrome, ME/CFS, myalgic encephalomyelitis, post-exertional malaise

    ME/CFS is a complex illness marked by profound fatigue and post-exertional malaise — symptoms worsen after even small effort. Chinese medicine frames it within deficiency patterns: Spleen Qi deficiency, Qi and Blood deficiency, or lingering pathogenic factor after viral illness. Pacing is the cornerstone of management.

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    Lifestyle & Diet

    • •Pacing is essential: stay within your energy envelope and avoid pushing through crashes.
    • •Graded exercise therapy is no longer recommended for ME/CFS — follow current NICE guidance.
    • •Prioritise sleep routine and rest breaks before symptoms force them.
    • •Keep meals small, warm and regular to support digestion.

    Cautions & Contraindications

    See sources
    • •Do not use strong draining or vigorous exercise-based approaches; post-exertional malaise can be severe.[]
    • •Avoid promising recovery — ME/CFS has no proven cure and claims must stay modest.[,]

    When to reassess or seek care again

    See sources

    Review every 4 weeks. Track energy envelope, crashes per month, sleep and mood. Keep treatment intensity low and adjust to the patient's day-to-day capacity.

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    Sources & Further Reading

    Clinical guidance, red flags and safety notes on this page draw on the following current sources alongside the classical references above.

    1. Chronic fatigue syndrome — Healthdirect
      Healthdirect Australia · 2024
    2. ME/CFS: diagnosis and management (NG206)
      NICE · 2021
    3. Lifeline — 24-hour crisis support
      Lifeline Australia · 2024
    4. Chinese medicine practitioner safety standards
      AHPRA / Chinese Medicine Board of Australia · 2024

    Educational reference for licensed practitioners. Not a substitute for individual clinical assessment. Refer to conventional care for any red-flag or undiagnosed presentation.