E2 ModerateCohortPEM not requiredCross-Sectional
Is physical deconditioning a perpetuating factor in chronic fatigue syndrome? A controlled study on maximal exercise performance and relations with fatigue, impairment and physical activity.
Bazelmans, E, Bleijenberg, G, Van Der Meer, J W et al.·Psychological medicine·2001
This study tested whether ME/CFS patients are in poor physical condition compared to healthy people, and whether being out of shape might be making their illness worse. Researchers had 20 ME/CFS patients and 20 healthy controls perform exercise tests while measuring heart rate, oxygen use, and other body functions. The study found no significant difference in physical fitness between the two groups, suggesting that poor fitness is not the main reason ME/CFS patients struggle with exercise.
Post-Exertional Malaise