An examination of energy envelope theory

Abstract

The current study experimentally examined the effectiveness of the Energy Envelope Theory in explaining the relationship between chronic fatigue syndrome patients’ energy levels and fatigue within the context of four non-pharmacological treatment conditions. Seventy-four patients were randomly assigned to one of four treatment conditions: cognitive-behavior therapy with graded activity, anaerobic exercise, cognitive therapy, and a control condition. Results of the study suggest that while no one treatment was more effective in reducing fatigue, the most effective treatment for keeping patients within their energy envelope was cognitive-behavior therapy with graded activity. In addition, while Energy Envelope Theory may provide conceptual value, particular components, namely perceived energy, had more predictive power and was associated with reduced fatigue and greater quality of life.