The cause of ME is unknown. Some viruses that can establish a chronic infection leading to fatigue and stress, such as EBV, have been implicated. Several other viruses, including human T-cell leukaemia virus (HTLV), human herpes virus-6, and enteroviruses, have also been investigated as the possible cause. Presently, ME is diagnosed by excluding other known illnesses with similar symptoms, such as glandular fever. This method of diagnosis is controversial because it is not always possible to confirm that an individual has ME and not some other fatigue-causing disorder, such as depression or fibromyalgia.

As medical practitioners are divided on the acknowledgement of ME as a specific illness, there are no accurate figures for numbers of sufferers. The average age of onset is about 30 years. There is no evidence that ME can be transmitted from person to person.

Supportive medications are available for relieving many of the symptoms of ME, but some treatments can be dangerous if the diagnosis is incorrect. There is no known cure. The course of the illness varies widely; some become progressively worse, some experience partial improvement, and others recover completely.

Reflexology can have such a normalising affect in relation to all the bodies systems that it is an ideal support for any person suffering from M.E. or any other chronic fatigue condition. As Reflexology does not treat specific illnesses but instead treats the person holistically the potential problems of misdiagnosis are not a relevant concern. Many clients who present with problems of severe fatigue report an improvement in their energy levels following a course of treatment.

MYALGIC ENCEPHALOMYELITIS
By Thomas S. McCreadie, GSSR,
Member of the Scottish Institute of Reflexology

Six patients aged 38 to 65 years, diagnosed as Myalgic Encephalomyelitis (painful inflammation of the brain and spinal cord) sufferers by general practitioners, who had a mean duration of suffering of 8 years were treated with 10 reflexology treatments. It was found that 5 treatments were necessary to effect change. All patients experienced a reduction in pain and tiredness after some of the sessions. After 6 months, 5 patients felt that their continuing improvement began with their reflexology treatment.

Twelve athletes were divided into two groups: a foot reflexology group and a control group. The test group received daily reflexology sessions. Both groups underwent the same athletic training and were observed for sleeping, appetite and reactions to training. The reflexology group showed better qualities of sleep, better appetite and quicker recovery from fatigue and muscle soreness.

Jianguo, Liu and Jingshun, Zhang, "Foot Reflex Zone Massage in Recovery of Fatigue in Athletes," 1994 China Reflexology Symposium Report, China Reflexology Association, Beijing, p. 98 (Xian City, Shan'xi, China)

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