title: Pacing as a strategy to improve energy management in myalgic encephalomyelitis/chronic fatigue syndrome: a consensus document.
abstract: OBJECTIVE
  Myalgic encephalomyelitis/chronic fatigue syndrome (ME/CFS) is a debilitating condition characterized by a number of symptoms which typically worsen following minimal exertion. Various strategies to manage the limited energy levels have been proposed. Of these, pacing has been consistently rated as one of the most helpful in surveys conducted by patient groups. This review is a response to the paucity of the information on pacing in the scientific literature.
  
  
  METHODS
  We describe the principle of pacing and how this can be adapted to meet individual abilities and preferences. A critical evaluation of the research was conducted to ascertain the benefits and limitations of this strategy.
  
  
  RESULTS
  Based on various studies, it is proposed that pacing can help to stabilize the condition and avoid post-exertional malaise.
  
  
  CONCLUSIONS
  Pacing offers practitioners an additional therapeutic option which is acceptable to the majority of patients and can reduce the severity of the exertion-related symptoms of ME/CFS.
authors.affiliation: School of Psychology, University of East London, Stratford, London, E15 4LZ, UK. ellengoudsmit@hotmail.com
authors.forename: Ellen M
authors.initials: EM
authors.lastname: Goudsmit
authors.forename: Jo
authors.initials: J
authors.lastname: Nijs
authors.forename: Leonard A
authors.initials: LA
authors.lastname: Jason
authors.forename: Karen E
authors.initials: KE
authors.lastname: Wallman
mesh_terms: D000203:Activities of Daily Living; D002908:Chronic Disease; D032921:Consensus; D004734:Energy Metabolism; D015673:Fatigue Syndrome, Chronic / Q000378:metabolism / Q000523:psychology / Q000628:therapy*; D006801:Humans; D010146:Pain / Q000523:psychology*; D059408:Pain Management; D011788:Quality of Life / Q000523:psychology; D012648:Self Care / Q000379:methods / Q000523:psychology