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A Randomized Controlled Graded Exercise Trial for Chronic Fatigue Syndrome: Outcomes and Mechanisms of Change

Cynthia Sharon

Roseanne Tobin

James C. Baldi

University of Auckland, New Zealand

The aim of this study was to investigate the potential mechanisms underlying the efficacy of graded exercise therapy for chronic fatigue syndrome (CFS). Forty-nine CFS patients were randomized to a 12-week graded exercise programme or to standard medical care. At the end of treatment the exercise group rated themselves as significantly more improved and less fatigued than the control group. A decrease in symptom focusing rather than an increase in fitness mediated the treatment effect. Graded exercise appears to be an effective treatment for CFS and it operates in part by reducing the degree to which patients focus on their symptoms.

Key Words: chronic fatigue syndrome (CFS) • cognitive behavioural model • deconditioning • graded exercise therapy • illness perceptions • randomized controlled trial • symptom focusing

Journal of Health Psychology, Vol. 10, No. 2, 245-259 (2005)
DOI: 10.1177/1359105305049774


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