Chronic Fatigue Syndrome (ME/CFS) Support in Perth (Malaga & Noranda)

Fatigue management, pacing and functional rehabilitation with allied health support

Chronic Fatigue Syndrome—also known as ME/CFS (Myalgic Encephalomyelitis/Chronic Fatigue Syndrome)—is a complex condition that can cause persistent, disabling fatigue and a range of other symptoms that affect daily life. At Palms Physiotherapy & Allied Health, we provide individualised, evidence-informed allied health support focused on pacing, function, symptom management strategies, and quality of life.

What is Chronic Fatigue Syndrome (ME/CFS)?

ME/CFS is a long-term condition characterised by significant fatigue and symptom worsening after activity. People may experience a combination of:

• Debilitating fatigue that is not relieved by rest

• Post-exertional symptom exacerbation (often called post-exertional malaise) after physical, cognitive, or emotional exertion

• Sleep disturbance (unrefreshing sleep)

• Cognitive difficulties (“brain fog”)

• Pain (muscle/joint pain, headaches)

• Dizziness or orthostatic intolerance in some people

• Reduced tolerance to everyday activities

Symptoms and severity vary between individuals, and management is most effective when it is individualised and paced carefully.

Important: ME/CFS diagnosis and medical management should be overseen by your GP and/or specialist team. Allied health support focuses on function, pacing, symptom management strategies and daily living supports.

How Palms can help

Our approach is practical and goal-based. We aim to help you:

• Reduce “boom–bust” cycles (overdoing it on better days and crashing after)

• Build sustainable routines that match your energy capacity

• Improve participation in daily activities (home, work, study, community)

• Develop symptom-aware strategies to protect function and wellbeing over time

We do not promise a cure. Our focus is on supporting function and quality of life using evidence-informed strategies.

Physiotherapy for ME/CFS

Physiotherapy may support movement and physical function using a symptom-aware approach.

Physiotherapy may include:

• Gentle mobility and strengthening options tailored to current capacity

• Posture and movement efficiency strategies to reduce unnecessary energy expenditure

• Symptom-aware activity planning (including rest breaks and recovery strategies)

• Education around pacing and safe progression where appropriate

• Support for balance and confidence with movement when dizziness or deconditioning is present

We prioritise staying within your current tolerance, avoiding symptom flare-ups where possible.

Occupational Therapy for ME/CFS (energy conservation and daily living)

Occupational therapy is often central to ME/CFS support because it targets daily function and sustainable routines.

OT may support:

• Energy conservation and pacing strategies

• Activity analysis and modification (how to do tasks with less energy cost)

• Home routines and weekly planning to reduce crashes

• Work/study participation strategies and reasonable adjustments

• Environmental modifications or equipment suggestions (when clinically indicated)

• Cognitive strategies for “brain fog” impacts (organisation, reminders, task chunking)

OT aims to help you maintain independence and participation while respecting your energy limits.

Exercise Physiology for ME/CFS (when appropriate)

Exercise programs for ME/CFS must be highly individualised and guided carefully. For some people, carefully titrated movement within their energy envelope may support function; for others, exercise-focused progression may not be appropriate during certain phases.

Exercise physiology may include:

• Very gradual, symptom-aware movement planning (when clinically suitable)

• Strength and conditioning within tolerance (often starting very low)

• Monitoring and adjusting based on symptom response

• Supporting consistency and confidence without triggering flare cycles

We will always prioritise safety, symptom monitoring, and pacing.

Psychological wellbeing and support pathways

Living with ME/CFS can be emotionally demanding and isolating. While Palms is an allied health clinic (not a mental health service), we can:

• Provide supportive education around pacing and managing uncertainty

• Recommend referral pathways (e.g., psychologist/counsellor) if anxiety, low mood, stress, or adjustment difficulties are significantly impacting wellbeing

• Encourage coordinated care with your GP and treating team

Family support and education

Family and carers often play a big role in ME/CFS management. We support families by:

• Explaining pacing and why symptoms can worsen after activity

• Providing practical routines and communication strategies

• Helping families support independence without pushing beyond capacity

• Offering strategies to reduce conflict and misunderstanding around fatigue variability

When to seek medical review

Because fatigue can have many causes, medical review is important—especially if symptoms are new, worsening, or unexplained. Seek prompt GP/urgent care if you experience:

• Chest pain, fainting, severe shortness of breath

• Rapid unexplained weight loss, fevers, night sweats

• New neurological symptoms (significant weakness, numbness, confusion)

• Severe deterioration in function over a short period

Our Mobile Therapy Services

Please visit these other websites for further information:

Chronic Fatigue Syndrome (CFS) Australia – A national organisation dedicated to supporting individuals with CFS and raising awareness about the condition.

• https://www.cfs.org.au

The Australian Chronic Fatigue Syndrome and Myalgic Encephalomyelitis Society – Provides information, support, and resources for individuals affected by CFS and ME.

• https://www.meaustralia.org.au

Healthdirect Australia – Offers general information about CFS, its symptoms, management, and treatment options.

• https://www.healthdirect.gov.au

The National Centre for Neuroimmunology and Emerging Diseases – Research and resources on CFS, including ongoing studies and clinical trials.

• https://www.ncneud.org.au

Brain Fog Project – Provides support and resources for individuals with CFS and related conditions, focusing on mental health and cognitive function.

• https://brainfogproject.org

The Australasian College of Nutritional and Environmental Medicine – Offers resources on the dietary and environmental aspects of managing CFS.

• https://www.acnem.org

Beyond Blue – Provides mental health resources and support for those living with chronic health conditions, including CFS.

• https://www.beyondblue.org.au

The Butterfly Foundation – Resources on body image and mental health, which can be relevant for those with chronic conditions like CFS.

• https://butterfly.org.au

Australian Psychological Society (APS) – Information on mental health and psychological support for chronic health conditions.

• https://www.psychology.org.au

Exercise and Sports Science Australia (ESSA) – Provides guidelines and resources for exercise interventions in chronic health conditions.

• https://www.essa.org.au

Important disclaimer: This webpage contains general information only and is not intended to be relied upon as personal clinical advice. While we aim to keep information accurate and up to date, it may not reflect the most current research or your individual circumstances. Palms Physiotherapy & Allied Health does not accept liability for decisions made based on this information without an individualised assessment by an appropriately qualified health professional. If you have concerns, please contact us to book an assessment or speak with your GP/medical team.