Chronic Fatigue Relief for CFS/ME and Long COVID with The Perrin Technique

Chronic Fatigue Syndrome (CFS), also known as Myalgic Encephalomyelitis (ME) or CFS/ME, is a complex multi-system condition. It is often associated with persistent, debilitating fatigue that is not relieved by rest, alongside a range of other symptoms that can fluctuate over time. For many patients, one of the most disruptive features is post-exertional malaise (PEM)—a worsening of symptoms after physical, cognitive, or emotional effort that might previously have been manageable. For those seeking Chronic Fatigue Relief London, Rakhee Osteopathy offers an approach centred on The Perrin Technique, which is used clinically to support patients managing CFS/ME and related presentations.

CFS/ME can affect adults of different ages and backgrounds, and symptoms can vary significantly between individuals. It is also commonly discussed alongside overlapping conditions such as fibromyalgia and Long Covid, where fatigue, pain, sleep disruption, cognitive difficulties (“brain fog”), and autonomic symptoms may occur together.

CFS/ME, nervous system dysregulation, and why The Perrin Technique may be relevant

The Perrin Technique is based on Dr Raymond Perrin’s clinical model that, in susceptible individuals, certain triggers may contribute to autonomic nervous system dysregulation, particularly involving sustained sympathetic (“fight or flight”) activation. In this model, the resulting physiological strain can contribute to lymphatic congestion and impaired fluid drainage around the central nervous system.

While research into CFS/ME continues to evolve, this osteopathic approach is used in practice to support symptom management by addressing:

• Lymphatic drainage pathways (particularly around the head, neck, thorax, and spine)

• Cranial and soft tissue techniques used within the Perrin protocol

• Autonomic regulation, with the aim of reducing patterns of persistent sympathetic overactivity

This approach does not present itself as a guaranteed solution, and outcomes can vary. However, some patients report that a structured, condition-specific osteopathic plan helps them better manage symptom burden and day-to-day function.

Long Covid and its overlap with Chronic Fatigue presentations

A proportion of people report ongoing symptoms following viral infections, including COVID-19. Long Covid may include fatigue, breathlessness, dizziness, pain, sleep disturbance, and cognitive symptoms, and these can overlap with CFS/ME presentations. Within the Perrin model, these persistent symptoms may be discussed in the context of lymphatic congestion and autonomic nervous system dysregulation, which The Perrin Technique aims to address through its structured osteopathic protocol.

Importantly, recovery narratives that rely on generalised exercise progression are not appropriate for many people with CFS/ME or Long Covid symptoms—particularly where PEM is present. Instead, pacing and energy management are usually prioritised, alongside any clinician-guided care plan.

What The Perrin Technique involves at Rakhee Osteopathy

The Perrin Technique is a specialised osteopathic approach that uses hands-on assessment and treatment focused on drainage and regulation. Sessions typically include osteopathic techniques applied to areas such as the head, neck, upper back, chest, and spine, aiming to support lymphatic flow and reduce physical congestion patterns that may be associated with symptoms.

A clinically appropriate plan is usually structured rather than sporadic. Dr Perrin’s protocol is commonly described as involving weekly sessions initially, with treatment frequency adjusted over time depending on presentation and response. It is also important for patients to be aware that temporary symptom flare-ups can occur early in care before any improvement is noticed, and that progress—where it occurs—may take time.

Any self-care guidance provided should be specific to the individual and aligned with pacing principles. Movement advice, if discussed, should be patient-specific and only when advised by the treating practitioner, rather than presented as a general recommendation.

When to seek support

Patients experiencing ongoing fatigue, PEM, sleep disturbance, cognitive symptoms, pain, dizziness, or other persistent concerns should seek appropriate medical guidance for assessment and support. Where CFS/ME or Long Covid is suspected or diagnosed, some patients choose to explore osteopathic care as part of a broader, patient-centred management plan.

Rakhee Osteopathy uses The Perrin Technique as a natural and non-invasive approach to support patients managing CFS/ME and Long Covid symptoms, with care guided by individual presentation and clinical appropriateness.