In this episode, Soph and Ollie offer a ‘crash’ course in Chronic Fatigue Syndrome (ME/CFS). They cover the key features and symptoms, including post-exertional malaise, diagnostic criteria, commonly co-occurring conditions, and current management approaches. The episode also explores the controversy surrounding the PACE trial, graded exercise therapy (GET) and cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT), drawing on both clinical experience and updated guidelines. Whether you're a clinician or someone navigating ME/CFS yourself, this episode offers grounded insights into a complex and often misunderstood condition.

Content warning: discussion of medical trauma/harm

For more information on ME/CFS, check out Emerge Australia: https://www.emerge.org.au/

BeyondBlue (https://www.beyondblue.org.au/) and Lifeline (13 11 14) are both available for 24/7 mental health support.

Episode 6: A 'crash' course in Chronic Fatigue Syndrome (ME/CFS)

Intro

Introduction to ME-CFS

Understanding ME-CFS and its Stigma

Healthcare Interactions and NEI System

Overlapping Conditions and Symptoms

Diagnostic Criteria and Challenges

Assessing ME-CFS and Research Challenges

Mechanisms Behind ME-CFS

Management Strategies for ME-CFS

Pacing and Energy Management

Managing Sensory and Cognitive Load

Allostatic Load and ME-CFS

Conclusion and Future Episodes

Outro

"Beyond Pain and Fatigue" is a podcast that delves into the complexities of chronic pain, fatigue, and invisible illnesses. Whether you’re a healthcare professional looking for insights to better support your patients, or someone living with pain or fatigue wanting to learn more and connect with others’ experiences, this podcast is for you.

Join hosts Sophie Shephard and Oliver Crossley from Vive Pain & Fatigue, as they bring together research, professional insights, and patient experiences, exploring different perspectives and new ways of thinking about pain and fatigue to help transform care. 

For written episode summaries, further resources, and information about our clinical services, access our website at vivepainfatigue.com.au [https://www.vivepainfatigue.com.au/].

We’d love to hear from you! If you have suggestions for topics you’d like us to cover or questions you want answered on the podcast, comment or send us a message!

Please note: this podcast is for educational purposes only and should not be taken as medical advice. Please consult with your treating health professionals for any recommendations suitable to your unique circumstances. 

Beyond Pain and Fatigue