What can Oriental medicine do to treat Chronic Fatigue Syndrome (CFS)?

Various Oriental medicine modalities, such as acupuncture, can help relieve chronic fatigue syndrome (CFS) symptoms. Because acupuncture is effective at clearing disruptions to Qi, encouraging energy flow, and increasing the vitality of patients (Evergreen Chinese Medical Centre, n.d.). It would help regulate the blood flow and detoxify the system, promoting overall health. Also, acupuncture is an excellent method to reduce inflammation, and studies have shown it can also strengthen the patients’ pain thresholds (Dellwo, 2022). 

Acupressure at specific points of the body can release endorphins that decrease pain by blocking pain signals, which helps ease restlessness and muscle pain (Altshul, 2015). Examples of acupressure points that can help release energy into the body include the top of the head, between the thumb and pointer finger, the lower back, and above the lip (Giaimo, 2020). These points help clear the meridians so blood can circulate and Qi can easily flow (Healthshots, 2022), resulting in increased energy levels and less prevalence of muscle aches. 

Additionally, many traditional Chinese herbs are known to promote better quality sleep and reduce fatigue, which can benefit those who have chronic fatigue syndrome (CFS) (LAc, 2013). Many herbs help boost the immune system and improve energy levels in individuals. It also benefits treating psychological symptoms associated with CFS, such as depression and anxiety (Zhang et al., 2022). Herbs can also provide nutrients to the body that a regular diet would not be able to achieve, which can help strengthen the patients and rejuvenate their energy (Art of Wellness Acupuncture & Traditional Chinese Medicine, 2022). 

Cupping is another Oriental medicine modality that has been shown to be helpful in treating chronic fatigue syndrome (CFS) and poor sleep quality (Meng et al., 2020). A study discovered that CFS patients who used cupping along with drugs had better health outcomes than patients who only used drugs (Dwello, 2022). The cupping mechanism is efficient because it expands the blood vessels, allowing blood to flow throughout the body and facilitating pain relief from muscle aches (Dwello, 2022). Many studies show that cupping can benefit those experiencing long-term fatigue, anxiety, and headaches (Rodriguez, 2019). 

Moxibustion is also an excellent modality to decrease feelings of weakness and fatigue. This Oriental medicine modality stimulates different points inside the body to relieve symptoms, especially symptoms relating to fatigue. Because moxibustion warms up the meridians and unblocks the pathway in which Qi flows (You et al., 2021). Interestingly, a study by You et al. (2021) found that using moxibustion for CFS had more positive outcomes than acupuncture. 

Lastly, lifestyle changes can be highly beneficial to those managing chronic fatigue syndrome (CFS). Effective adjustments include preserving energy, exercising in moderation, adopting a diet with less saturated fat, using a planner, and seeking help through a primary care doctor or therapist (WebMD, 2023). Since CFS patients experience extreme fatigue, it is essential to avoid overworking themselves by saving their energy for important tasks, which can be accomplished by making time to rest, avoiding activities that require excessive energy, and adopting a diet that maximizes their energy (Winchester Hospital, n.d.). Other efforts should be aimed at improving sleep quality and adopting healthy coping skills to maintain a positive outlook on their condition (Dellwo, 2022).