ME (Myalgic Encephalitis) / Fatigue Syndrome

Outside the main spinal cord is a nervous system called the Autonomic Nervous System that controls all our involuntary actions; from the direction of blood supply to the intestines at mealtimes or to the brain when thinking, to controlling our postural muscles so we can stand up in gravity, and a thousand-and-one responses we have learnt in our evolution to make in certain conditions without conscious thought.

This autonomic nervous system can be subject to mechanical interference (in the same fashion as motor or sensory nerves can producing such conditions as Sciatica), but this interference will produce an array of metabolic symptoms (as opposed to pain or weakness when a motor/sensory nerve is interfered with) anywhere in the body, and can alter normal functioning of any organ such as the heart, lungs, kidneys and so on; or whole systems such as the lymph drainage, the hormonal/endocrine system, etc. The result is often an initially undramatic but slow onset of symptoms and gradual slide into general illness that will often evade tests, or produce results upon investigation that do not reveal the cause of the problem.

A good specific example of this is the "ME" fatigue type condition. In this illness particular areas of the spine develop problems and interfere with the parts of this autonomic nervous system that then cause the recognised symptoms of ME or Fatigue Syndrome.

Myalgic Encephalitis suggests viral infection of the brain but neither any infectious nor cephalic connection has been found with this illness. 'Chronic Fatigue Syndrome' better describes the nature of the symptoms, which can be relieved greatly (often totally) by Osteopathic treatment to the areas of the spine that are causing this illness.

Simple application of sound Osteopathic techniques can gently ease the interference on the autonomic nervous system and hence the fatigue syndrome illness itself. Along with the Osteopathic techniques there are other areas an Osteopath can advise in. There are both certain vitamin/mineral/trace minerals and botanical herbs that have genuine research showing real benefit for such conditions as fatigue syndrome. Also the correct level and type of activity/exercise is important which is variable depending on the individual, as is the understanding of the destructive types of stress and management of them. Dietary changes and simple self help techniques can all be prescribed by an Osteopath to help speed the recovery being created by the Osteopathic treatment.

Osteopathy is the only treatment to have research demonstrating its efficiency for M/E. and its treatment is now a recognised speciality within Osteopathy. The 'F.O.R.M.E.' registered charity trust is funding further research, practitioner training, medical and public awareness and Jonathan Cove, principal Osteopath at the Carlton Clinic, is listed on its national register of specialists in the treatment of M.E./Fatigue Syndrome.

The immune system requires support in this condition and the Naturopathic approach to health achieves this. One of our Osteopaths is a qualified Naturopath also. In addition to treatment, the clinic can issue (to patients of the clinic and those not currently attending practitioners) expertly prepared information of clinically proven and time honoured remedies and naturopathic techniques shown to be effective for this condition, that serves as a basis for self help for the sufferer in addition to which treatment should be sought.

The clinics Homeopath/Herbalist (of 16 years experience) can help prescribe the Naturopathic herbs and remedies and use Homeopathy when applicable as well. With Acupuncture and Hypnotism, both of which can be used to boost energy levels generally, the Carlton Clinic has a multifaceted approach that can be used for the patients' benefit.

Consultation: appointment by telephone 01293 784200