The Department of Paediatrics runs the Chronic Fatigue Syndrome Program at the Austin Hospital in conjunction with the Royal Talbot Rehabilitation Centre. The program is a 4-week inpatient stay focusing on rehabilitation and therapy to help those with chronic fatigue syndrome (CFS) to improve their physical and emotional wellbeing.
What is CFS?
CFS is a condition characterised by severe fatigue in association with a number of physical symptoms, including:
- Muscle and joint aches
- Headaches
- Sore throat
- Enlarged glands
- Abdominal pain
- Difficulties with concentration and memory
- Sleep-pattern disturbances
These symptoms often result in significant absences from school, which can lead to increasing social isolation and depression.
What causes CFS?
We do not know the cause of CFS. However, we do know that the symptoms are real and have a profound effect on the physical, social, emotional and educational life of those with CFS.
Can CFS be cured?
Although a single ‘cure' for CFS has not been found, we are able to effectively treat the major consequences of CFS (physical ‘de-conditioning' and emotional distress) for those affected.
What happens during the program?
The CFS Program uses a rehabilitative approach to ‘re-condition' those with CFS, both physically and emotionally. The program takes place as part of an intensive 4-week inpatient stay on the Paediatric Ward, and comprises:
- Hydrotherapy
- Physiotherapy
- Leisure therapy (basketball, shopping, canoeing, movies, to name a few)
- School (within the hospital grounds)
- Psychological support
- Regular clinical evaluation by nursing and medical staff
Towards the end of the program, there is a gradual reintroduction of normal ‘outside' activities, including school.
Who is eligible?
The program is available to any young person 10 to 18 years of age who is currently enrolled in school and has had confirmed CFS for more than three months. If this is the case, your doctor can refer you for assessment by the Program Leader, Dr Lionel Lubitz.
Following this assessment, a meeting will be organised at the Austin Hospital so that you can meet some of the other team members. If you feel the program is right for you, an admission date will be organised. Inpatient numbers are limited, but there is no cost involved in the admission.
