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Chronic fatigue syndrome is a debilitating disorder in which a persistent state of tiredness (not related to exertion) is experienced and cannot be relieved by resting. Diagnostic criteria for chronic fatigue syndrome were developed by the Centers for Disease Control (CDC) in 1994. However, the cause or causes of the disorder are still unknown. For this reason, it is a difficult condition to treat. Chronic fatigue patients are often forced to visit multiple medical specialists before a diagnosis can be made.

Studies completed by the CDC show that between one and four million Americans suffer from chronic fatigue. At least a quarter of these are unemployed or on disability because of this disorder.

The Symptoms of Chronic Fatigue

When the following symptoms occur in an otherwise healthy person, chronic fatigue syndrome is often diagnosed:

• Mental/physical exhaustion
• Memory/concentration problems
• Sleep disturbance
• Muscle/joint pain
• Headache
• Tender lymph nodes
• Sore throat
• Irritable bowel symptoms
• Psychological symptoms, including depression and irritability
• Night sweats and chills
• Visual disturbances
• Sensitivities and allergies to odors, foods, chemicals, medications, or noise
• Dizziness, balance problems, or difficulty maintaining an upright position


A Lack of Conventional Medical Treatment for Chronic Fatigue Syndrome

There are currently no medications that have been approved by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) for use with chronic fatigue patients. Although there is no standard treatment for the disorder, medical doctors tend to prescribe low doses of antidepressants; anti-inflammatory agents; antimicrobial drugs (including antivirals and antibiotics); nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs); blood pressure medications; and immunologically active drugs, such as isoprinosine. As is the case with all medications, any one of these drugs has potential side effects that could affect the body negatively.

Energy Levels and Qi

In Chinese medicine, there is a direct link between Qi (life energy) and health. Qi cycles through the body on channels (known as meridians) which connect all of the major organs. These pathways are separate from the circulatory, lymphatic, and nervous systems, and influence the way the body functions.

When the flow of Qi in the meridians becomes unbalanced, the result is poor health. Traditional Chinese medicine is particularly relevant in the diagnosis and treatment of chronic fatigue in that it does not view the disorder as a singular syndrome, but rather as a series of treatable symptoms.

Treatment for Chronic Fatigue Syndrome at Monmouth Spine and Rehabilitation Center

Acupuncture is an effective practice that has been used in China for thousands of years. As this eastern technique becomes more widely accepted in the west, acupuncture has been used successfully in the treatment of a variety of illnesses, including the symptoms of chronic fatigue. This treatment is a safe, painless, and drug free alternative to the traditional medical response.

The New Jersey Certified Acupuncturists at Monmouth Spine and Rehabilitation are trained in and practice the Chinese tradition. Contact our facility to learn more about how chronic fatigue symptoms can be alleviated with acupuncture.